We are all well aware that something seems to be happening with the weather; more frequent and more severe storms, more flooding, more people suffering and in need. In the midst of these threats, I am hoping that more people will be open to seeing that there is a moral and even religious aspect to be considered when we talk about the environment.
Laudato Si
Perhaps this is a good time to revisit Pope Francis’ groundbreaking document. It is not a political statement. Rather, Francis makes an appeal to every person living on earth to join the conversation about how to care for our common home. To do so, he uses the theological method favored by Pope LeoXIII in Rerum Novarum. He considers the situation through the lenses of Scripture and Tradition. Finally, he recommends actions that can be taken that respect “our unique place as human beings in this world and our relationship to our surroundings.
I am very interested in leading a group to read and study the document. I don’t expect it to be a large group, even the issues are very large indeed. But I think that even if a small group can develop some direction and understand, we could be of benefit to the whole parish.
Since I am expecting a small group, I won’t set a day or time to begin. Please contact me through the office if you are interested. Perhaps we could settle on a day and time together. I look forwards to digging into this for the wisdom we can reach and share.
Fr Pat
By now you must have seen the video of the latest mass shooter storming the school doors and prowling the school halls. It is a disturbing sight. And it should be disturbing. There she is, in full military style; bullet proof vest, cap turned back like a swat team member, AK style automatic strapped over her shoulder. It is the very image of our increasingly militarized society; the glorification of gun culture in our country. Many of our own state and local politicians eager promote this culture. And what has it brought us? More safety, as they claim to promote? Hardly. Rather, more death and violence. Every time another mas shooting occurs, there is some detail that seems to be worse than before. Can we really allow ourselves to become inured to the violence, the death, the loss?
A few weeks ago I shared with you a chart that showed that the leading cause of death now among youth is gun violence. Did you see it? Did you really think about? Did you decide to turn away from it? One congressman famously said that there is nothing they can do.
This violence is horrible and painful to think about. But it is morally unacceptable to NOT think about it. I know that on this topic I am becoming pretty strident. I can becoming more demanding of your attention. But I think we all need to be more strident. The glorification of guns and violence are now so ingrained in our culture that it is going to take stern measures to overcome it. It is going to take a hard healing and a firm, unflinching demand for peace and understand, tolerance and compassion, to overcome it. Are we ready to be part of this necessary cure? Are we ready to make firm demands of elected officials to act responsibly for the good of our children? God help us to do so. God help us if we don’t.
Fr Pat
The Ministry of Altar Serving: A privilege and a blessing!
We need YOU, both adults and youth (5th grade & up)
Altar Servers are a very important part of the Liturgy. Will you consider helping us to build this ministry and serve your parish?
If you are interested in this ministry, contact Dcn. John Brannen jbrannen@cdlex.org or 502-370-5779