I have plenty of trials, but God is always there to support me.” —St. Emily de Vialar (1797-1856)
Every Cross Is A Blessing
Recently, I went for my bi-annual check up at the dentist. I’ve been going to this same dentist for 40 years. Most people fear dental check ups and some even avoid going, until a crisis hits. But I happen to love going to the dentist. If medical coverage would permit, I would frequent the office even more! My dentist, Dr. Andras Mecs, who is of Hungarian descent, is humble and ready to serve every patient joyfully. He’s always positive and radiant when he sees you. Each time I visit him, he will invariably and inevitably recount stories about my parents. During this particular visit, he reminisced that he and my dad were alumni of the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Mecs told me that he always looked forward to my dad’s check ups. He said, “It was as if your dad had collected a bag of questions to ask me, so I always had to be on my toes!”
Dr. Mecs laughed when he told me how Dad, at each visit, would ’zone out’ and fall asleep in the dentist’s chair, and not because of the sedation. In raising 7 children and working as a Computer Analyst at US Steel for over 30 years, it’s understandable how one could possibly find relaxation there, with the low lighting, soft music, the joyful dental hygienist and helpful assistants, who only added to the positive experience. My dad had a profound regard and respect for Dr. Mecs as a professional and a man of integrity. He enjoyed discussing fishing, golfing and Pittsburgh sports teams with him. Dr. Mecs recounted Dad once saying, “I trust you with my life, not just my mouth. Beyond knowing your trade of dentistry; filling cavities, constructing crowns and performing root canals, you treat each patient with supreme value, respect and appreciation.”
Dr. Mecs and I both agree on the importance of having a good ‘father model’ in our lives, who provided a strong foundation for his children to flourish and grow. What is the “face” of your own father? Many have seen the commercial on tv, which states: “If you can encourage, then you can parent.” A father holds an important supportive role in our lives, as he guides, teaches, disciplines and assists his children through life with the grace of encouragement. During my visit to the dentist, we were able to reflect on the good that fathers provide: the lessons they teach, the discipline they give, the values and morals they instill, and the love that has allowed us to live out our dreams. I’m sure each father does the best he can, with the knowledge and experience, and the wisdom he has. But, we must realize that no one does everything perfectly all of the time. We are all a ‘work in progress’ and we must vow to become the best person that we can, each and every day.
Dr. Mecs told me that he sees so much of my dad in me; in my traits, features, temperament and even my physical characteristics, which resemble my dad in his early years. He said that in July, he and his wife will be making a 3,000 mile journey to California, to help their son relocate. He said that part of his heart will be left there in California with his son, as they make their way back across the country to Pittsburgh.
Jesus, in his resolute determination to go to Jerusalem, to suffer and die, offers a shocking and stunning challenge to his disciples: “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life, will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world, yet lose or forfeit himself?” (Lk 9:23-25)
There are no ‘shortcuts’ to following Christ. Discipleship calls us to the heights of maturity. Before mastering any trade or profession, we must first master “knowing ourselves.” Perhaps it’s easier to master our profession, and more difficult to fully know ourselves. We must first know our limitations and our possibilities, our vices and our virtues, our weaknesses and our strengths, our sins and our graces. St. John Vianney was once complimented on being a good confessor. He remarked, “If I’m a good confessor, it’s only because I’m a greater sinner!” This holy man realized that the struggle with sin never lets up. The only way we can be victorious over it, is through self-denial or self-mortification. In a world of compulsivity, we can be driven by ‘the immediate’ and indulge ourselves recklessly in the tyranny of self-destruction. St. Padre Pio said, “Self-denial is not our gift to God, but allowing God to do more for us.” Yes, we must all do battle with Satan daily, with selfishness, sickness, sin, vices and evil. This can take a toll on any of us.
The Cross is central to Christianity and every Christian. St. Rose of Lima said, “Without the burdens of afflictions, it is impossible to reach the height of grace. The gifts of grace increase as the struggles increase.” No life or vocation is immune or exempt from carrying a cross. However, we do not carry it alone; Christ helps us. Thus, we must have compassion to help others with their burdens and challenges.
I sometimes remark to couples in my wedding homily, “Although you may not see it yet, your vocation of ‘covenant love’ will walk through Jesus’ 14 Stations of the Cross.” (Stations literally means steps.) You will have falls. You will be hurt. You will feel alone. You will be injured. You will make great sacrifices. You will yoke this commitment responsibly. Love will be the sustaining power that is only borne through the Cross. Your love will be tested through time, purified through sacrifice and humbled by forgiveness. You will learn that every cross is a blessing, because wisdom comes through it.
We must pray daily, for the grace to walk with the Lord as His disciples, day by day. As my 92 year old godmother, from Salem, OH, Aunt Jo, would often say, “Inch by inch, it’s a cinch; yard by yard, it’s hard!” Aunt Jo, who possesses over 300 cookie cutters, has been busy baking cookie crosses for my 25th Anniversary celebration. She said that, last week, she had so many crosses in her kitchen, that it looked like Arlington National Cemetery!
Don’t look too far ahead, or you’ll trip and lose the way. Let us focus on grace we need to be faithful to Jesus each and every day. The former UCLA Basketball Coach, John Wooden would often say, “Make every day your masterpiece.”
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Fatherhood: The Greatest Self-giving Gift
“I thank thee, Almighty God, that in sending me so great an affliction in the last hour of my life, thou wouldst purify me from my sins, as I hope, by thy mercy.”
—St. Margaret, Queen of Scotland (1046-1093)
Fatherhood: The Greatest Self-giving Gift
On this Father’s Day weekend, Saturday, June 15, 2013 at 10:00 am, Bishop David A. Zubik will ordain 25 men to the order of the Diaconate at St. Paul Cathedral. What a joyful day for the Church of Pittsburgh! Two of the men will be transitional deacons en route to Holy Orders and ordained as priests. Twenty three will be ordained as permanent deacons, bringing the total number of deacons to 99 who currently serve the Church of Pittsburgh.
Recently, I read a story in “The Deacon’s Bench” about Deacon Joe Moratta, who was ordained last fall from the Diocese of Richmond, VA. He was 39 years old, with a wife, Katie, and 5 children: Caroline, Christopher, Jack, Michael and William. While vacationing at the Outer Banks, in Duck, NC, with his family, Deacon Joe suddenly drowned while swimming. It left everyone in disbelief, disheartened, numb, shocked and beset with grief. It was a vivid and painful reminder that life is not always fair. It does not always unfold as we plan or envision. I read the accounts of this scholar, father and spiritual leader, who worked as a controller at Randolph College, and who has a blog entitled, “The Journeyman Carpenter”. He could talk football in one moment, fatherhood in the next as well as preach powerfully on the Epistles of St. Paul. He had many cyber friends, and had a contagious spirit of joy and enthusiasm. He had a great sense of humor, and more than anything in the universe, he loved and adored his growing family. He never tired of telling stories about his children. Some remarked that no one ever got ‘deeper into their soul’ than Deacon Joe. He stung the hearts of people, penetrating their souls with God’s love.
He stressed the importance that our value does not come from what we do, but from who we are. It’s not our accomplishments, our achievements, our ambitions, that make a father, but who we are, in relationship to God, our Father, who is creator, protector, provider, sustainer, who gave us his Son, to be the model and example of sacrifice and suffering love.
Deacon Joe died on June 5. There were 800 people in attendance at his funeral, which was held at Holy Cross Church in Lynchburg, VA. In a local paper, there were requests for prayers for the Moratta family which read, “God bless you, Deacon Joe Moratta. Thank you for being my friend. Pray for him, folks, please. Pray for his young wife and children, and for all who love him. Say a rosary, light a candle. The world is a little darker today.”
When I read the daily obituaries, I am drawn not so much to the list of accolades, accomplishments or attributes; rather I notice the list of ‘proceeded in death by…’ and the list of ‘survived by…’ It compels me to ask two questions:
1. “Who will be there to welcome the deceased into the next life?” I always imagine my parents, Archbishop Fulton Sheen, Blessed Pope John Paul II, St. Francis of Assisi, and my Patron Saint, St. Richard of Chichester. These are the likes that I hope to be joined with when I die.
2. “Who is left behind to bear the burden of grief as they face their tomorrows with courage, faith and hope?” As Christians we are called to be the ‘balm of Christ’ for people in suffering and anguish, especially to feel others’ misfortunes and show understanding for others’ failings and defects. Time and time again, the Gospel of St. Luke records that Jesus had a compassionate and merciful heart. for the sick, the suffering and the sinner. Christianity is more than a rule book, a moral code, or a theology exposé. It is the awareness that God loves His people and forgives them.
The Evangelist Luke presents Jesus sharing table fellowship with a wide range of people on the social ladder, so much as 19 times in the Gospel. In this week’s account, Jesus is invited to a formal meal at the house of Simon, the Pharisee, a well-to-do man, who had an open courtyard where there was a garden and a fountain. Suddenly, an unknown woman crashed the party. We do not know her name or her sin, but that is not important. Normally, there were 3 essential gestures of hospitality that were offered: a kiss of peace, the washing of hands and feet, and the anointing of the head with oil. The shock was that these gestures did not come from Simon, but from this unknown woman. She anointed Jesus with her whole jar of expensive ointment. She bathed his feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair, as she pleaded for his mercy and forgiveness.
Let us imagine, what is the worst thing you ever did in your life? What is the one thing in your life that you are most sorry for? Would you have the courage or grace, and be contrite enough to be humbled, as this woman was, when she asked Jesus to wipe out all her offenses, to forgive her sins and allow her to begin again? Simon was too busy pointing fingers at others. As they say, “When we point fingers at others, three fingers are pointing back at us.” Because of her great sorrow for her sins, Jesus showed her great love.
We all sin and make mistakes. We are all weak and broken in our nature. Sometimes our relationships are more dysfunctional than functional. It’s not a perfect journey for any of us. It was never meant to be. That’s why we must cling to and yearn for God; knowing His forgiveness and love along the journey. He loves us in spite of our brokenness. We can’t earn God’s love; we don’t deserve it. We can’t buy God’s love; we can only accept it. No sin is too big for God to forgive. No sin is too grave for God not to heal it. No sin is too long ago, that today’s fresh forgiveness cannot heal. No stranglehold of sin or addiction can hold us back once we experience the liberation from the stranglehold of death. No sin can hold us in the tomb if we seek to be released by God’s healing touch.
The saints knew their many sins, but they were also great lovers. When we really love, it makes us ‘sin-sensitive’. Jesus loves us so much that He really died and really suffered for us. So we must count our blessings, as He seeks to restore us, receive us and reconcile us.
Father’s Day is a great day to thank God for the vocation of fatherhood, whether biological, adopted or spiritual. As we spend time celebrating our fathers by sharing a meal or remembering them in death by a visit to the cemetery, let us always remember to honor, respect and pray for them. Happy Father’s Day!
—St. Margaret, Queen of Scotland (1046-1093)
Fatherhood: The Greatest Self-giving Gift
On this Father’s Day weekend, Saturday, June 15, 2013 at 10:00 am, Bishop David A. Zubik will ordain 25 men to the order of the Diaconate at St. Paul Cathedral. What a joyful day for the Church of Pittsburgh! Two of the men will be transitional deacons en route to Holy Orders and ordained as priests. Twenty three will be ordained as permanent deacons, bringing the total number of deacons to 99 who currently serve the Church of Pittsburgh.
Recently, I read a story in “The Deacon’s Bench” about Deacon Joe Moratta, who was ordained last fall from the Diocese of Richmond, VA. He was 39 years old, with a wife, Katie, and 5 children: Caroline, Christopher, Jack, Michael and William. While vacationing at the Outer Banks, in Duck, NC, with his family, Deacon Joe suddenly drowned while swimming. It left everyone in disbelief, disheartened, numb, shocked and beset with grief. It was a vivid and painful reminder that life is not always fair. It does not always unfold as we plan or envision. I read the accounts of this scholar, father and spiritual leader, who worked as a controller at Randolph College, and who has a blog entitled, “The Journeyman Carpenter”. He could talk football in one moment, fatherhood in the next as well as preach powerfully on the Epistles of St. Paul. He had many cyber friends, and had a contagious spirit of joy and enthusiasm. He had a great sense of humor, and more than anything in the universe, he loved and adored his growing family. He never tired of telling stories about his children. Some remarked that no one ever got ‘deeper into their soul’ than Deacon Joe. He stung the hearts of people, penetrating their souls with God’s love.
He stressed the importance that our value does not come from what we do, but from who we are. It’s not our accomplishments, our achievements, our ambitions, that make a father, but who we are, in relationship to God, our Father, who is creator, protector, provider, sustainer, who gave us his Son, to be the model and example of sacrifice and suffering love.
Deacon Joe died on June 5. There were 800 people in attendance at his funeral, which was held at Holy Cross Church in Lynchburg, VA. In a local paper, there were requests for prayers for the Moratta family which read, “God bless you, Deacon Joe Moratta. Thank you for being my friend. Pray for him, folks, please. Pray for his young wife and children, and for all who love him. Say a rosary, light a candle. The world is a little darker today.”
When I read the daily obituaries, I am drawn not so much to the list of accolades, accomplishments or attributes; rather I notice the list of ‘proceeded in death by…’ and the list of ‘survived by…’ It compels me to ask two questions:
1. “Who will be there to welcome the deceased into the next life?” I always imagine my parents, Archbishop Fulton Sheen, Blessed Pope John Paul II, St. Francis of Assisi, and my Patron Saint, St. Richard of Chichester. These are the likes that I hope to be joined with when I die.
2. “Who is left behind to bear the burden of grief as they face their tomorrows with courage, faith and hope?” As Christians we are called to be the ‘balm of Christ’ for people in suffering and anguish, especially to feel others’ misfortunes and show understanding for others’ failings and defects. Time and time again, the Gospel of St. Luke records that Jesus had a compassionate and merciful heart. for the sick, the suffering and the sinner. Christianity is more than a rule book, a moral code, or a theology exposé. It is the awareness that God loves His people and forgives them.
The Evangelist Luke presents Jesus sharing table fellowship with a wide range of people on the social ladder, so much as 19 times in the Gospel. In this week’s account, Jesus is invited to a formal meal at the house of Simon, the Pharisee, a well-to-do man, who had an open courtyard where there was a garden and a fountain. Suddenly, an unknown woman crashed the party. We do not know her name or her sin, but that is not important. Normally, there were 3 essential gestures of hospitality that were offered: a kiss of peace, the washing of hands and feet, and the anointing of the head with oil. The shock was that these gestures did not come from Simon, but from this unknown woman. She anointed Jesus with her whole jar of expensive ointment. She bathed his feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair, as she pleaded for his mercy and forgiveness.
Let us imagine, what is the worst thing you ever did in your life? What is the one thing in your life that you are most sorry for? Would you have the courage or grace, and be contrite enough to be humbled, as this woman was, when she asked Jesus to wipe out all her offenses, to forgive her sins and allow her to begin again? Simon was too busy pointing fingers at others. As they say, “When we point fingers at others, three fingers are pointing back at us.” Because of her great sorrow for her sins, Jesus showed her great love.
We all sin and make mistakes. We are all weak and broken in our nature. Sometimes our relationships are more dysfunctional than functional. It’s not a perfect journey for any of us. It was never meant to be. That’s why we must cling to and yearn for God; knowing His forgiveness and love along the journey. He loves us in spite of our brokenness. We can’t earn God’s love; we don’t deserve it. We can’t buy God’s love; we can only accept it. No sin is too big for God to forgive. No sin is too grave for God not to heal it. No sin is too long ago, that today’s fresh forgiveness cannot heal. No stranglehold of sin or addiction can hold us back once we experience the liberation from the stranglehold of death. No sin can hold us in the tomb if we seek to be released by God’s healing touch.
The saints knew their many sins, but they were also great lovers. When we really love, it makes us ‘sin-sensitive’. Jesus loves us so much that He really died and really suffered for us. So we must count our blessings, as He seeks to restore us, receive us and reconcile us.
Father’s Day is a great day to thank God for the vocation of fatherhood, whether biological, adopted or spiritual. As we spend time celebrating our fathers by sharing a meal or remembering them in death by a visit to the cemetery, let us always remember to honor, respect and pray for them. Happy Father’s Day!
Monday, June 10, 2013
‘Family Time’ - A Cabin, the Glue
“Without the Holy Eucharist there would be no happiness in this world, and life wouldn’t be bearable”.
St. John Vianney
‘Family Time’ - A Cabin, the Glue
The Jones family gathered for an extended Memorial Day weekend, at my brother, Dan and wife, Kelly’s home in Greensboro, NC, (420 miles from Pittsburgh). Everyone looks forward to having a Sunday cabin Mass. I brought my Mass kit along with my luggage. They own 53 acres in Reidsville, NC (approximately 30 miles from their home) where we celebrated Mass. Everyone gets a kick out of not having to get dressed up. Mass can start at any time, and it isn't as long as the ‘big church’, they can offer their own prayer intentions of what is in their hearts and minds, and no collections are taken! In their cabin kitchen, there is a beautiful picture of the “Last Supper” and lo and behold, there were 12 of us at the gathering. In the room, there was a rustic plaque hanging with the word “Simplify”. Time in the country away from it all makes life more simple. After sharing the Eucharist at the kitchen table, we ate our breakfast (pancakes, turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, toast and juice) as we held hands and offered thanks to the Lord for bringing us together to offer the Mass for Mom’s intention.
Dermatology Practice to have a “health clinic”. Dan takes care of skin, Dave takes care of feet, and as a Priest, I heard confession. Dan remarked “On this holiday, the dermatology visit is free, podiatry visits are free, but confessions are $10!” I made out like a bandit and it paid for my gas back home!
Around my brother’s house, I noticed door hangars with the words “Family Time.” I thought to myself, any investment that we make in family relationships, pays off dividends. Although we come from the same family, we are different. Yet coming together, on this holiday weekend, we are strengthened to help blend, bond, and build us into being continued nourishment for one another. Family stories, sharing laughter and fellowship, enjoying nature, playing games, throwing a rod into the lake, taking a hike, watching the labradoodles frolic around in playfulness, maintaining the land, enjoying campfire chats as we ate S’mores (graham cracker, marshmallow and chocolate, melted together over the fire) are just some of the ways I savor this Memorial Day family gathering.
I broke my new car in with this trip and am grateful for the GPS navigation system, Bluetooth (hands free calling) and my Sirius satellite radio. The GPS reminds me of God. 1) It knows how to get us where we are going. 2) It can direct one along the path. 3) It can redirect us when we make wrong turns and 4) It never gives up on us, no matter how many times we mess up. Like the GPS, our God is a God of second chances, and sometimes even third and fourth and so on. As long as we are sorry for our straying, God will get us on the right track that leads to our final destination. So, let us never give up on God who never gives up on us.
As we celebrate today, the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, let us reflect on the simplicity of our faith to be nourished by God’s word, to be sanctified by His body and blood that gives us courage and strength to be his followers. While away, it reminded me of how grateful I am to serve as a priest at St. Joseph Parish.
I had quiet time to do spiritual reading. During the time, I read the book Walking the Disciples Path - 8 Steps that Will Change Your Life and the World by Linda Perrone Rooney. She is a spiritual director, hospital chaplain, pastoral counselor, retreat leader and is the founding director of the Center for Healing and Spirituality in Winter Haven, FL.
Step 1: Surrender Your Nets (Matthew 4:18-22) The Church equips us through our baptism to become and make disciples using our own rod of faith and net of good works. We must fish in every day circumstances, in the sacred environments in which we dwell.
Step 2: Live as a Blessing (Mathew 5:1-12) Jesus offers the core values of his teaching and the secret to what will make life worth living, the Beatitudes. The word heart is used more than 630 times in scripture and the Jewish-world view taught that the heart was the life force and organizing principle of the entire body, mind and spirit. If a spiritual stethoscope evaluated the health of our heart, it would probe our motives, values and character. We must have three distinct qualities to truly live poor in spirit.
Humility—Not defacing oneself or selling ourselves short by denying our gifts and talent. True humility is to recognize what we have been given by a gracious and generous God. We are not self made, overconfident arrogant people with inordinate pride, but rather humble people who know our place in the universe and know our need for God each and every day. Eating “humble pie” is healthy spiritually.
Vulnerability—To allow our deepest emotions to be at the surface of others. To reveal our own wounds in an attempt to heal another.
Trust—To trust in God, we must let go of control, fear and believe He knows best. When we live simply, and we seek inner calm, we yield to God’s will. God takes residency in our hearts.
Step 3: Love your Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48) Someone once said as you get older, family and friends come and go, but enemies accumulate. An enemy is anyone who is an opponent, challenger, rival, foe, competitor. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies.
Step 4: Cultivate a Generous Spirit (Luke 6:37-38) Love always involves giving and our giving must be personal as we assess our own blessings, commitments and abilities. Giving should always be a private offering, not done for publicity. St. Paul reminds us there are 4 beneficiaries of our giving: the giver, the recipient, God and the Church.
Step 5: Pray like Jesus (Psalm 141:1-2) Prayer is not about words. It is about being connected to the ground of our whole being—God. Through body, mind and spirit to be at rest in the presence of the one who loves us. “I call to you, Lord, come quickly to me; hear me when I call to you. Let my prayers rise like incense in your sight; the lifting of my hands like an evening oblation.”
Step 6: See the Good (Matthew 7:1-5) Most of the conflict in the world, our church, our families, and within our own hearts resides in our judgments and prejudices. They stunt us from seeing as God sees. “The more one judges or condemns another, the less one has time to love another”. Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
Step 7: Heal all you Meet (Matthew 8:5-10, 13) The world is a ripe field in need of healing. We are called to be the healing presence of Christ in the face of pain, loneliness, isolation, fear and death which is everywhere.
Step 8: Do not be Afraid (Matthew 14:22-23) Jesus’ most profound anthem is His admonition to be fearless. Every generation must face and question whether evil will triumph over goodness. Yet we learn that God’s reign rules in spite of illness, tragedy, war, famine and human sinfulness. Fear is conquered through love.
Through these 8 steps: surrender, bless, love, give, pray, see, heal and trust, may we renew our commitment at every Eucharistic sharing to walk in the disciples path that changes our life and the lives around us!
St. John Vianney
‘Family Time’ - A Cabin, the Glue
The Jones family gathered for an extended Memorial Day weekend, at my brother, Dan and wife, Kelly’s home in Greensboro, NC, (420 miles from Pittsburgh). Everyone looks forward to having a Sunday cabin Mass. I brought my Mass kit along with my luggage. They own 53 acres in Reidsville, NC (approximately 30 miles from their home) where we celebrated Mass. Everyone gets a kick out of not having to get dressed up. Mass can start at any time, and it isn't as long as the ‘big church’, they can offer their own prayer intentions of what is in their hearts and minds, and no collections are taken! In their cabin kitchen, there is a beautiful picture of the “Last Supper” and lo and behold, there were 12 of us at the gathering. In the room, there was a rustic plaque hanging with the word “Simplify”. Time in the country away from it all makes life more simple. After sharing the Eucharist at the kitchen table, we ate our breakfast (pancakes, turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, toast and juice) as we held hands and offered thanks to the Lord for bringing us together to offer the Mass for Mom’s intention.
Dermatology Practice to have a “health clinic”. Dan takes care of skin, Dave takes care of feet, and as a Priest, I heard confession. Dan remarked “On this holiday, the dermatology visit is free, podiatry visits are free, but confessions are $10!” I made out like a bandit and it paid for my gas back home!
Around my brother’s house, I noticed door hangars with the words “Family Time.” I thought to myself, any investment that we make in family relationships, pays off dividends. Although we come from the same family, we are different. Yet coming together, on this holiday weekend, we are strengthened to help blend, bond, and build us into being continued nourishment for one another. Family stories, sharing laughter and fellowship, enjoying nature, playing games, throwing a rod into the lake, taking a hike, watching the labradoodles frolic around in playfulness, maintaining the land, enjoying campfire chats as we ate S’mores (graham cracker, marshmallow and chocolate, melted together over the fire) are just some of the ways I savor this Memorial Day family gathering.
I broke my new car in with this trip and am grateful for the GPS navigation system, Bluetooth (hands free calling) and my Sirius satellite radio. The GPS reminds me of God. 1) It knows how to get us where we are going. 2) It can direct one along the path. 3) It can redirect us when we make wrong turns and 4) It never gives up on us, no matter how many times we mess up. Like the GPS, our God is a God of second chances, and sometimes even third and fourth and so on. As long as we are sorry for our straying, God will get us on the right track that leads to our final destination. So, let us never give up on God who never gives up on us.
As we celebrate today, the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, let us reflect on the simplicity of our faith to be nourished by God’s word, to be sanctified by His body and blood that gives us courage and strength to be his followers. While away, it reminded me of how grateful I am to serve as a priest at St. Joseph Parish.
I had quiet time to do spiritual reading. During the time, I read the book Walking the Disciples Path - 8 Steps that Will Change Your Life and the World by Linda Perrone Rooney. She is a spiritual director, hospital chaplain, pastoral counselor, retreat leader and is the founding director of the Center for Healing and Spirituality in Winter Haven, FL.
Step 1: Surrender Your Nets (Matthew 4:18-22) The Church equips us through our baptism to become and make disciples using our own rod of faith and net of good works. We must fish in every day circumstances, in the sacred environments in which we dwell.
Step 2: Live as a Blessing (Mathew 5:1-12) Jesus offers the core values of his teaching and the secret to what will make life worth living, the Beatitudes. The word heart is used more than 630 times in scripture and the Jewish-world view taught that the heart was the life force and organizing principle of the entire body, mind and spirit. If a spiritual stethoscope evaluated the health of our heart, it would probe our motives, values and character. We must have three distinct qualities to truly live poor in spirit.
Humility—Not defacing oneself or selling ourselves short by denying our gifts and talent. True humility is to recognize what we have been given by a gracious and generous God. We are not self made, overconfident arrogant people with inordinate pride, but rather humble people who know our place in the universe and know our need for God each and every day. Eating “humble pie” is healthy spiritually.
Vulnerability—To allow our deepest emotions to be at the surface of others. To reveal our own wounds in an attempt to heal another.
Trust—To trust in God, we must let go of control, fear and believe He knows best. When we live simply, and we seek inner calm, we yield to God’s will. God takes residency in our hearts.
Step 3: Love your Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48) Someone once said as you get older, family and friends come and go, but enemies accumulate. An enemy is anyone who is an opponent, challenger, rival, foe, competitor. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies.
Step 4: Cultivate a Generous Spirit (Luke 6:37-38) Love always involves giving and our giving must be personal as we assess our own blessings, commitments and abilities. Giving should always be a private offering, not done for publicity. St. Paul reminds us there are 4 beneficiaries of our giving: the giver, the recipient, God and the Church.
Step 5: Pray like Jesus (Psalm 141:1-2) Prayer is not about words. It is about being connected to the ground of our whole being—God. Through body, mind and spirit to be at rest in the presence of the one who loves us. “I call to you, Lord, come quickly to me; hear me when I call to you. Let my prayers rise like incense in your sight; the lifting of my hands like an evening oblation.”
Step 6: See the Good (Matthew 7:1-5) Most of the conflict in the world, our church, our families, and within our own hearts resides in our judgments and prejudices. They stunt us from seeing as God sees. “The more one judges or condemns another, the less one has time to love another”. Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
Step 7: Heal all you Meet (Matthew 8:5-10, 13) The world is a ripe field in need of healing. We are called to be the healing presence of Christ in the face of pain, loneliness, isolation, fear and death which is everywhere.
Step 8: Do not be Afraid (Matthew 14:22-23) Jesus’ most profound anthem is His admonition to be fearless. Every generation must face and question whether evil will triumph over goodness. Yet we learn that God’s reign rules in spite of illness, tragedy, war, famine and human sinfulness. Fear is conquered through love.
Through these 8 steps: surrender, bless, love, give, pray, see, heal and trust, may we renew our commitment at every Eucharistic sharing to walk in the disciples path that changes our life and the lives around us!
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Excerpt from Fr. Rich’s 25th Anniversary Homily
“Love is the guarantee that the life of the Spirit is growing in us. Love is the sign of the Holy Spirit at work in the Church and in the world.” -Thomas Merton.
Excerpt from Fr. Rich’s 25th Anniversary Homily:
It was on Pentecost Sunday, 25 years ago that I first celebrated Mass, and it is with great joy and gratitude, that today, I give thanks to God for sustaining me in the faith for a quarter of a century. I am grateful to each and every one of you; those present in the church this day; those who could not be here, but are here in spirit and prayer; and those who have been commended to God’s care in glory.
The prelude music set the tone for this Mass of Thanksgiving, marking the 25th Silver Anniversary of my Ordination to the Priesthood: “Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place” by Nanny Wolfe, “How Beautiful” by Twila Paris and “Grace Alone” by Scott Wesley Brown and Jeff Nelson. These songs of faith stir the assembly of believers as we gather in God’s house, opening our hearts to His word and to receive His Body and Blood. It was resoundingly, that we were met with our opening song: “All Are Welcome!” by Marty Haugen.
‘Hospitality’ and ‘welcome’ was always a hallmark of Jewish prayer and faith. So, I welcome all of you, from near and far, family and friends, young and old. I offer a special welcome to my 92 year old godmother, Aunt Jo, who traveled with my cousin, Sandy Lewis from Salem, OH to be here today. As Aunt Jo stood as a sponsor in Baptism for me, 51 years later, she continues to ‘fan the flame of faith’ in my heart through her faith, joy and love.
There are 3 gifts I would like everyone to take home from this special occasion:
1. A prayer card that includes a picture of my patron saint, St. Richard of Chichester, (1197-1253), and my favorite prayer on the back: “Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ for all the benefits and blessings which you have given me, for all the pains and insults which you have bore for me. Merciful Friend, Brother and Redeemer, may I know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day.”
2. A bulletin, which includes pictures from my journey of faith. My classmates from 1988 were recently on retreat at St. Paul Seminary (May 5-8, 2013). I took a walk with each one of them and spent time with them. The late Bishop John Bernard McDowell, (who confirmed me and ordained me a Deacon), would often say when one marks a jubilee or anniversary: “We need to congratulate, commend and give thanks to those who have ‘made it’ and persevered!” “The Church is like a great ship; being pounded by the waves of life’s different stresses. Our duty is not to abandon the ship, but to keep her on course.” -St. Boniface
3. A worship aid containing pictures, poems, prayers and songs, which convey and communicate the story of my life. May you take these home as small gift and souvenir of this day.
When I walked into church this morning, I heard the song, “Yes, Jesus Loves Me” playing. Many times I heard those same lyrics sung in our home by our Presbyterian father. I know that Mom is smiling upon us now, and her spirit rests upon us today! After I opened the doors to the church, I lit a vigil candle at the Pieta statue (faithfulness forever). I am grateful for all the pilgrims of faith who have made this journey. The Church has been here long before us and will be here long after us. What a gift the Church is, as we celebrate her birthday today. It is our birthday as well, through the gift of the Holy Spirit, given to those who believe.
I received an early 25th Anniversary gift to attend the 2nd round playoff game against the Ottawa Senators. I brought along a friend, who remarked that he didn’t want me to ‘clog the system’ by slowing us down as we went through all the different check points at the Consol Energy Center. He said, “Take out your cell phone, your glasses, binoculars, coins and keys. Then we will get through this with flying colors!” As the security agents scanned us, they said, “Enjoy the game!” We advanced to second level, where there is a dynamic attraction featuring touch screen panels, enabling fans to view the biographies, stats, photos and videos that pay tribute to prominent coaches, players and great moments of the Penguins’ history.
Being a passionate Pens fan, I sometimes wonder if I’ve attended more games than celebrated Masses! After all, my Pennsylvania license plate is a personal plate from Mount St. Mary Seminary, of which I am an alumni (class of 1988). I waited 2 1/2 years to get the number “66” on my plate (Pens’ player, Mario Lemieux’s number). Penguin photos also adorn my entire office at the rectory. As we went to our seats, the ticket takers scanned our tickets and gave us a towel and a program for the game. We went to the concession stands, then went to find our seats, only to find that we were 16 rows behind the Ottawa Senator goalie! It was a perfect view! Seven minutes prior to the start of the game, they dimmed the lights and played captions of great moments from past Penguin games. Then Jeff Jimmerson sang the Canadian and US National Anthems. With fans cheering, towels waving and all shouting, the excitement was breath-taking. My friend exclaimed, “If you can’t get into the spirit here, there’s something wrong!”
Recently I read a book, “Holy Goals for Body and Soul” co-written by Bishop Thomas John Paprocki and his brother, Joe Paprocki. Fr. Thomas is a priest from Chicago (ordained in 1978), and was made Auxilliary Bishop in 2003. In 2010, he became Bishop of Springfield, IL. Bishop Paprocki is both a civil and canon lawyer and has run 18 marathons. He was a goalie for an amateur hockey league called, “Masters Hockey League” and also played goalie for practices with the Chicago Blackhawks and the Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL. He is currently the Episcopal Advisor for “Catholic Athletes for Christ”. He is one of 7 boys and his younger brother John was active in pastoral ministry for over 30 years and also a best-selling author. In the book, they note that there are 8 steps connecting sports with God and faith:
1. Fear: 365 times in the Bible it says: “Do not fear.” I have read that there are over 750 fears that beset the human journey. We have nothing to fear, as Jesus rose from the dead!
2. Frustration: No life is without frustrations, whether big or small.
3. Failure: There are a lot more losers than winners. How do we deal with failure? Despite our own failures, God invites us to celebrate His victory.
4. Fortitude: This is a virtue that gives us strength to face the challenges in life.
5. Faith: To win in life, we must have faith in God, and the many gifts He’s given us to share with others. People who place faith in God are never disappointed.
6. Family: It is the first ‘team’ and first ‘unit’, that we play with and work with. Family lasts a lifetime. The epitome of family life is the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
7. Friendship: Abe Lincoln said, “The better part of one’s life consists of friendships.”
8. Fun: Are we having fun yet? Laughter is the best medicine!
St. Paul, the athlete summed it up best: “Whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. (1 Cor 10: 31)
Excerpt from Fr. Rich’s 25th Anniversary Homily:
It was on Pentecost Sunday, 25 years ago that I first celebrated Mass, and it is with great joy and gratitude, that today, I give thanks to God for sustaining me in the faith for a quarter of a century. I am grateful to each and every one of you; those present in the church this day; those who could not be here, but are here in spirit and prayer; and those who have been commended to God’s care in glory.
The prelude music set the tone for this Mass of Thanksgiving, marking the 25th Silver Anniversary of my Ordination to the Priesthood: “Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place” by Nanny Wolfe, “How Beautiful” by Twila Paris and “Grace Alone” by Scott Wesley Brown and Jeff Nelson. These songs of faith stir the assembly of believers as we gather in God’s house, opening our hearts to His word and to receive His Body and Blood. It was resoundingly, that we were met with our opening song: “All Are Welcome!” by Marty Haugen.
‘Hospitality’ and ‘welcome’ was always a hallmark of Jewish prayer and faith. So, I welcome all of you, from near and far, family and friends, young and old. I offer a special welcome to my 92 year old godmother, Aunt Jo, who traveled with my cousin, Sandy Lewis from Salem, OH to be here today. As Aunt Jo stood as a sponsor in Baptism for me, 51 years later, she continues to ‘fan the flame of faith’ in my heart through her faith, joy and love.
There are 3 gifts I would like everyone to take home from this special occasion:
1. A prayer card that includes a picture of my patron saint, St. Richard of Chichester, (1197-1253), and my favorite prayer on the back: “Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ for all the benefits and blessings which you have given me, for all the pains and insults which you have bore for me. Merciful Friend, Brother and Redeemer, may I know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day.”
2. A bulletin, which includes pictures from my journey of faith. My classmates from 1988 were recently on retreat at St. Paul Seminary (May 5-8, 2013). I took a walk with each one of them and spent time with them. The late Bishop John Bernard McDowell, (who confirmed me and ordained me a Deacon), would often say when one marks a jubilee or anniversary: “We need to congratulate, commend and give thanks to those who have ‘made it’ and persevered!” “The Church is like a great ship; being pounded by the waves of life’s different stresses. Our duty is not to abandon the ship, but to keep her on course.” -St. Boniface
3. A worship aid containing pictures, poems, prayers and songs, which convey and communicate the story of my life. May you take these home as small gift and souvenir of this day.
When I walked into church this morning, I heard the song, “Yes, Jesus Loves Me” playing. Many times I heard those same lyrics sung in our home by our Presbyterian father. I know that Mom is smiling upon us now, and her spirit rests upon us today! After I opened the doors to the church, I lit a vigil candle at the Pieta statue (faithfulness forever). I am grateful for all the pilgrims of faith who have made this journey. The Church has been here long before us and will be here long after us. What a gift the Church is, as we celebrate her birthday today. It is our birthday as well, through the gift of the Holy Spirit, given to those who believe.
I received an early 25th Anniversary gift to attend the 2nd round playoff game against the Ottawa Senators. I brought along a friend, who remarked that he didn’t want me to ‘clog the system’ by slowing us down as we went through all the different check points at the Consol Energy Center. He said, “Take out your cell phone, your glasses, binoculars, coins and keys. Then we will get through this with flying colors!” As the security agents scanned us, they said, “Enjoy the game!” We advanced to second level, where there is a dynamic attraction featuring touch screen panels, enabling fans to view the biographies, stats, photos and videos that pay tribute to prominent coaches, players and great moments of the Penguins’ history.
Being a passionate Pens fan, I sometimes wonder if I’ve attended more games than celebrated Masses! After all, my Pennsylvania license plate is a personal plate from Mount St. Mary Seminary, of which I am an alumni (class of 1988). I waited 2 1/2 years to get the number “66” on my plate (Pens’ player, Mario Lemieux’s number). Penguin photos also adorn my entire office at the rectory. As we went to our seats, the ticket takers scanned our tickets and gave us a towel and a program for the game. We went to the concession stands, then went to find our seats, only to find that we were 16 rows behind the Ottawa Senator goalie! It was a perfect view! Seven minutes prior to the start of the game, they dimmed the lights and played captions of great moments from past Penguin games. Then Jeff Jimmerson sang the Canadian and US National Anthems. With fans cheering, towels waving and all shouting, the excitement was breath-taking. My friend exclaimed, “If you can’t get into the spirit here, there’s something wrong!”
Recently I read a book, “Holy Goals for Body and Soul” co-written by Bishop Thomas John Paprocki and his brother, Joe Paprocki. Fr. Thomas is a priest from Chicago (ordained in 1978), and was made Auxilliary Bishop in 2003. In 2010, he became Bishop of Springfield, IL. Bishop Paprocki is both a civil and canon lawyer and has run 18 marathons. He was a goalie for an amateur hockey league called, “Masters Hockey League” and also played goalie for practices with the Chicago Blackhawks and the Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL. He is currently the Episcopal Advisor for “Catholic Athletes for Christ”. He is one of 7 boys and his younger brother John was active in pastoral ministry for over 30 years and also a best-selling author. In the book, they note that there are 8 steps connecting sports with God and faith:
1. Fear: 365 times in the Bible it says: “Do not fear.” I have read that there are over 750 fears that beset the human journey. We have nothing to fear, as Jesus rose from the dead!
2. Frustration: No life is without frustrations, whether big or small.
3. Failure: There are a lot more losers than winners. How do we deal with failure? Despite our own failures, God invites us to celebrate His victory.
4. Fortitude: This is a virtue that gives us strength to face the challenges in life.
5. Faith: To win in life, we must have faith in God, and the many gifts He’s given us to share with others. People who place faith in God are never disappointed.
6. Family: It is the first ‘team’ and first ‘unit’, that we play with and work with. Family lasts a lifetime. The epitome of family life is the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
7. Friendship: Abe Lincoln said, “The better part of one’s life consists of friendships.”
8. Fun: Are we having fun yet? Laughter is the best medicine!
St. Paul, the athlete summed it up best: “Whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. (1 Cor 10: 31)
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