Congratulations to all of the women who have been part of the Cathedral Guild over these last 100 years. The celebration yesterday evening was a testament to your faith and generosity.
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"The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers, but for the wide world's joy."
~Henry Ward Beecher Do you find joy when the sun shines? Do you find joy in seeing new blooms on a tree? How does the gift of creation connect you to the Creator? In the midst of life we can start to take things for granted. The importance of spending quiet time alone with God cannot be overemphasized. Meditation can help us pause long enough to shut out the noise of the world so we can hear God speak to us. It is in this meditation that we will have the opportunity to become more aware of God's gifts to us through His amazing grace. In this quiet we are also able to get a sense of how God is prompting us to respond to His grace. If I were asked to describe the members of the Cathedral Guild in one word, what would it be? I will ponder that question as I write and give my answer at the end.
This evening the Cathderal Guild women will celebrate in a special way their 100th anniversary. We will begin with Mass, installation of officers for next year, and dinner. It is my understanding that there will also be a vintage fashion show. I am going to dress just as I usually do. If they think I represent the 1950's I guess that will say something about my wardrobe choices. The ladies of the Cathedral Guild are dedicated. They give of their time and their talent over and over again. Many events occur at the cathedral. If there is a reception to be hosted following one of these events, the Cathedral Guild women are there taking care of it. Ordinations--check. Chrism Mass--check. Funeral luncheons--check. Pro-life breakfast--check. The list could go on and on. The women of the Cathedral Guild are people of prayer. They model what it means to have "full, conscious and active participation" in the liturgy and the life of the Church overall. These dedicated and prayerful women give all of us an example of servant leadership. They do their ministries with joy. Congratulations to all of the members of the Cathedral Guild both past and present. This milestone of 100 years is certainly something to celebrate. I am happy to be a small part of the festivities. What is the one word I use to describe the women of the Cathedral Guild? AMAZING! "Who dares to teach must never cease to learn."
~John Cotton Dana There is a lot of truth in that statement. Any time I have the privilege of teaching a class or conducting a workshop, I give an abundance of time to my preparations. I never want to walk into a setting and find myself ill-prepared for the presentation of which I am about to give. I have learned a great deal through the years because of my reading and research when preparing to teach or preach. How does this specifically apply to passing on the faith? If you are a parent, what have you learned about your faith from trying to teach your children? What have we learned in the process of sharing our faith journey with our friends and co-workers? My encouragement to you today is to not grow complacent. Continue to learn and grow so you can dare to teach others. The world hungers to know God. As evening drew to a close yesterday the sun was shining brightly. The storm clouds to the east made the sky a deep blue color. It was a bit unsettling but still quite beautiful.
We celebrate the life of St. Joseph today. I pray in a special way for all who earn their living with the skill of their hands. It always impresses me to watch carpenters and other skilled tradesmen create things with such precision and accuracy. Even when I measure twice and cut once...well, let's just say people are glad I am not building their homes. We have entered into the month of May, a month typically dedicated to our Blessed Mother. The rosary is a beautiful prayer at all times. I encourage you to make this prayer your own during the month of May and beyond. Meditate on the life of Jesus by praying each mystery with attention, reverence, and devotion. Open yourself more fully to God's grace with this wonderful prayer. |
AuthorThis is my personal blog. The opinions expressed are those of Deacon Vernon and the blog's readers. This site operates independently and is not affiliated with any other entity. The information I provide is on an "as-is" basis. I make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information on this blog. I will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information. Furthermore, I will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use. |