So on this Monday night, home from work, purposely not scheduling anything because the rest of the week is demanding, free from any fear of freezing weather(in fact for January it's almost warm) I decided to chat a bit. Lately I find myself somewhat reflective and extremely verbose, of course I am always somewhat verbose. I do like words so there's that!
Let me address Monday right off the bat. I am always discouraged to see social media postings that start on Sunday night and continue all day Monday as folks moan and groan that Monday is back and just being all gloomy about this first day of what we call the traditional work week. Mondays should not be wasted and not maligned. After all God created Monday every bit as much as Friday or Saturday or a holiday. And we cannot arrive at a Friday without going through Monday. For me, I find Monday a very productive and usually busy day at work and chance to start fresh at the beginning of another week. When I was young I used to moan and groan; I despised Sunday night because it meant Monday is coming. Now I most productively and excellently spend my Sunday night at Adoration, I offer Benediction and I almost always assist at the evening Mass. Sunday evenings/nights are beautiful and sustain me as I awake on Monday morning. Think about our Monday attitude and try an attitude of gratitude to God for the gift of a whole new day!
Today I was reflecting on the next opportunity to be Pops. I love being Pops to Calvin and Katelyn who, once again, entertained me greatly when we had our Sunday Skype session. I am still enjoying great memories from our Christmas visit of now a month and change ago and our November visit impacted by my very sick appendix. This year, because of schedules, it may be a long while before we see them in person. Meanwhile, on the home front, my daughter Elizabeth informs me that the doctor says baby Brennan will be here in about 5 weeks. This is my daughter's first child and yesterday was her baby shower. From all accounts, it was a huge success, lots of family and friends came and they had fun. That makes me smile. I know my little girl is anxious to meet her little girl and so am I. So I guess you can say I'm a 3 time Pops!
Despite last week's horrible weather I have had a great week in ministry. Bible Study was cancelled but it actually afforded me the opportunity to delve deeper into the heart of Acts of the Apostles. This particular book is a must read for Catholics as you see in Paul's travels and writings the foundational days of Holy Mother Church. On Thursday I had hoped to visit with our family staying on our church campus for the Family Promise program. As a family is going through the difficulty of homelessness, we house the family for a week. We feed them, provide lodging for the evening and anything else they may need. Of course we are all praying for them as well. Sadly the weather prevented my visit but despite the weather our incredible volunteers were able to attend to their every need. This program should inspire all people of faith and I am proud that St. Jane de Chantal actively participates.
The other big ministry event this past week was the Pro Life efforts of so many, including our parish family. I have already spoke of the efforts of our youth and their sponsors as they bravely made their way to Washington DC and marched for Life!! And our Saturday team, with many Knights of Columbus participating went to Baton Rouge and marched for Life here in Louisiana! Inspired by their witness and led by the Holy Spirit, my homily this weekend addressed the evil of abortion and the powerful witness of so many, including our own, who dared to march.
Speaking of that homily I was struck by an event at our Saturday vigil mass. In my homily, as soon as I said the words Roe v Wade, I took notice of one man, older, very well dressed, as he exited stage left. I realized his departure was some kind of protest as he promptly returned to his pew from outside at the conclusion of my homily. Interesting I thought as I'm sure this man believes himself to be a good Catholic. By leaving so early, he has no idea what was said. And then there is the whole Holy Spirit influence. Do folks in the pew really believe that good and faithful homilist is free to write his own stuff? That would only be true if we are suppressing the Holy Spirit. I moved on and delivered that same homily again Sunday. I have posted it on this blog so read it and judge for yourself. You know one day, many months ago, a parishioner wrote me, rather anonymously that homilies should be all happy, clappy, fluffy stuff. Yeah well that's not how the Holy Spirit leads me.
My other great joy Sunday was baptizing little Abram, of whom I also have blogged earlier. This little boy was so good and didn't move a muscle until I poured water in his eyes, something I hate to do. But what was important is the water was poured, the right words said and Abram became a new creation in Christ, born-again, freed from original sin and becoming the newest member of the church. It is such a joyful Sacrament and so joyful to offer as a Deacon.
So after a nice evening relaxing and looking forward to Monday morning, I made my way to work, put in a busy day, still managed to get some ministry paperwork done and have arrived at this hour of Monday night, sharing with all of you this satisfying existence. I hope all of you will have a peaceful night and restful sleep and arise on Tuesday to thank God and make the most of our Tuesday
No comments:
Post a Comment