Catechetical Sunday did not feel the same this year for a multitude of reasons. (Yes, today is Catechetical Sunday in case you were unaware.) How many churches are still closed across the country? How many religious education programs are are still discontinued? How many Catholic schools are providing education and formation virtually? Are catechists still important?
After six months of being told that the Church was "not essential," will we ever be relevant in society again? I never imagined after six decades of life practicing the faith that I would ask such a question. It had been drilled into me for years from a young age on up that it is essential to participate in the sacramental life of the Church. The sacraments are avenues of God's grace. Through prayer and the sacraments we pursue holiness by uniting our will to the will of God? Did all of that stop being true? Of course not! But it is easy to see why people may think it did cease being true.
After six months of being told that the Church was "not essential," will we ever be relevant in society again? I never imagined after six decades of life practicing the faith that I would ask such a question. It had been drilled into me for years from a young age on up that it is essential to participate in the sacramental life of the Church. The sacraments are avenues of God's grace. Through prayer and the sacraments we pursue holiness by uniting our will to the will of God? Did all of that stop being true? Of course not! But it is easy to see why people may think it did cease being true.
My dear readers, if we have learned anything from these last six months, it is that we must take some personal initiative in our faith development and growth in spiritual maturity. The challenges and obstacles of remaining faithful to Christ will come from many different venues. I encourage you to put on the full armor of God and remain vigilant. (See Ephesians 6: 10-18)
Saint John Paul II constantly encouraged us, "Be not afraid!"
How do you find renewal? I am not sure when we will be allowed to gather for retreats, days of recollection, or parish missions. Until then, find ways to stay spiritually healthy. Visit a shrine (if they are open). Visit a church (if it is open). Go out in nature. "Go to your room and pray to your Father in secret." (See Matthew 6:6)
Some people say that The Stanley Hotel is haunted. If we believe in "spirits of the dead," why do so many people live as if there is no God?
I did not see any animals until I was getting ready to leave Estes Park. I took one last chance driving by the golf course and I finally saw a few elk. It was a good reminder that God takes care of the animals. "Not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it." (See Matthew 10:29)
"This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."
(See Psalm 118: 24)
(See Psalm 118: 24)
RSS Feed
