While I'm on a roll, here is this week's reflection, built upon this week's concentration on promoting unity among the various disparate Christian traditions.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity calls all of us to be conscious of the ways we promote unity in the voices that call for justice in our world, and of the unfortunate fractures which have resulted from the human weakness that is so much a part of the Church.
Have a read or a listen (as you prefer) and then feel free to share the news with others, or to comment as the Spirit inspires.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Lost and found
Alas, last Sunday I reported that the podcast version of the reflection given at Mass was not available. You see, at the end of the recording time, I glanced down at the magic box that was responsible for ever so faithfully recording my every word, only to find that the batteries that had given it power had somehow failed.
Imagine my surprise when this week, I restored power to the recorder, only to find that the reflection from last week had indeed been preserved, except for the very last couple of phrases, which as it turns out were instructions about the special collection for the folks in Haiti.
Therefore, if you're still interested, please sit back and have a listen, then go out and share the good news with all the world.
Imagine my surprise when this week, I restored power to the recorder, only to find that the reflection from last week had indeed been preserved, except for the very last couple of phrases, which as it turns out were instructions about the special collection for the folks in Haiti.
Therefore, if you're still interested, please sit back and have a listen, then go out and share the good news with all the world.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
This week's hat trick
In some ways the opening weeks of a calendar year can be a relatively restful time. Christmas celebrations are complete, and all those involved in putting them together look forward to some well-deserved down time, but January can also prove to be a month filled with what some may see as bizarre turns of fate.
Just this week, there have been not one, not two but three funerals celebrated in these parts. Actually, there have been two funeral Masses and this afternoon we have been asked to be present for a Liturgy which will take place at one of the local funeral homes.
Like life, death comes in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes it's long in coming and involves a great deal of physical suffering, but at other times, it can appear and leave the bystanders shaking their heads and hearts in disbelief. In the end, no human beings can determine the pace of these important moments; all we can do is stand, watch and partake in the drama that unfolds.
Just this week, there have been not one, not two but three funerals celebrated in these parts. Actually, there have been two funeral Masses and this afternoon we have been asked to be present for a Liturgy which will take place at one of the local funeral homes.
Like life, death comes in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes it's long in coming and involves a great deal of physical suffering, but at other times, it can appear and leave the bystanders shaking their heads and hearts in disbelief. In the end, no human beings can determine the pace of these important moments; all we can do is stand, watch and partake in the drama that unfolds.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
A little goes a long way
Since I'm in the process of preparing my Lines from the Reading Chair for this week's parish bulletin, I thought I'd share a sneak peak at this week's reflection with readers of the blog:
I'm a firm believer in the principle that a little bit of kindness goes a very long way. This has been borne out in the a number of ways over the past little while.
For the past couple of years, I've invited the priests who are active in parishes throughout the city where I live to join us for a meal on a fw occasions, most notably a few days before the beginning of the liturgical season of Advent and then again a few days before the beginning of Lent.
The parish where I live and exercise my ministry is one of only two or three across the diocese who are lucky enough to employ a full-time cook so it's a rare occasion for the priests of the diocese (or at least the area) to be able to get together in such numbers to enjoy a meal without having to go to a restaurant, and all those who have joined us have been most appreciative of this small gesture of hospitality.
At the time of the most recent priests' gathering this past Advent, I noticed that the retired priests who live in the region were not present, so last week I invited all the priests who have served in various parishes and who are now retired to come for a meal. This turned out to be a wonderful evening: an opportunity for some who have not seen one another for quite some time to spend a moment or two in casual conversation, and a chance for colleagues to get caught up on the happenings of our lives.
Tonight, I invited the principals and some of the teachers from the schools where our parishioners' children are in attendance to come for supper. Like the invitations issued to the priests, this was an occasion for teachers and principals to spend some unstructured time together, and a chance to thank them for their dedication to the education and formation of our children.
It was also an opportunity to share with them the dates for upcoming parent and student meetings in preparation for the celebration of First Reconciliation and First Communion, but most of all, it was a time to open some doors of communication between the parish and our schools.
In many ways, a little bit of effort does indeed go a long way. The results of these efforts will be borne in the future. Stay tuned. It will be fun to see where it goes from here.
I'm a firm believer in the principle that a little bit of kindness goes a very long way. This has been borne out in the a number of ways over the past little while.
For the past couple of years, I've invited the priests who are active in parishes throughout the city where I live to join us for a meal on a fw occasions, most notably a few days before the beginning of the liturgical season of Advent and then again a few days before the beginning of Lent.
The parish where I live and exercise my ministry is one of only two or three across the diocese who are lucky enough to employ a full-time cook so it's a rare occasion for the priests of the diocese (or at least the area) to be able to get together in such numbers to enjoy a meal without having to go to a restaurant, and all those who have joined us have been most appreciative of this small gesture of hospitality.
At the time of the most recent priests' gathering this past Advent, I noticed that the retired priests who live in the region were not present, so last week I invited all the priests who have served in various parishes and who are now retired to come for a meal. This turned out to be a wonderful evening: an opportunity for some who have not seen one another for quite some time to spend a moment or two in casual conversation, and a chance for colleagues to get caught up on the happenings of our lives.
Tonight, I invited the principals and some of the teachers from the schools where our parishioners' children are in attendance to come for supper. Like the invitations issued to the priests, this was an occasion for teachers and principals to spend some unstructured time together, and a chance to thank them for their dedication to the education and formation of our children.
It was also an opportunity to share with them the dates for upcoming parent and student meetings in preparation for the celebration of First Reconciliation and First Communion, but most of all, it was a time to open some doors of communication between the parish and our schools.
In many ways, a little bit of effort does indeed go a long way. The results of these efforts will be borne in the future. Stay tuned. It will be fun to see where it goes from here.
A moment
In the midst of otherwise frantic week, an oasis appeared today, and none too soon.
It came in the form of a phone call asking whether I could come to the local hospice to visit with a family. The journey to the hospice was anything but peaceful though. I was conscious of the 'rules of the road' and followed them too (lest anyone might fear that I have an inordinate desire to become best friends with the boys in blue), but my mind was in so many other places that at least once and perhaps thrice I found myself almost missing a turn or needing to re-direct in order to reach my destination.
Finally arrived at the correct coordinates, I knew that I needed a moment myself if I was to be of any assistance to the one for whom I had been summoned. I often wonder whether things happen by chance or by design, but in this case, I think I'd rather choose the latter for I had scarcely found my way in the door and along the corridor which would ultimately lead me to my destination before I met a familiar face.
She invited me to sit for a moment so that she could share some particulars of the case, and this gave me an opportunity to perceive the display of orchids that were nestled in one corner of the room. Plants and I tend to get along well; they actually are quite calming and so I welcomed the opportunity to 'check them out'. They were healthy but in need of some minor maintenance, so with the proper permissions established, I took the liberty of caring for them. The effect was seen almost instantly as my soul rejoiced and I was therefore able to re-focus in preparation for the task at hand.
The magic of a hospice is that it's an oasis in the midst of an otherwise wildly moving stream, a place where the dying can come to terms with the reality of life, and where those who must stand by and watch during some of the most stress-filled moments can find a place to be at peace, even just for a moment at a time. It's one of the rare places that pays particular attention to caring for the soul ... especially when it's most needed.
As providence would have it, I received a rather interesting article today about the sad reality that more and more people are finding that there are less and less priests to be present in times of crisis. We all need places and moments to find peace, especially when we're most distracted or scattered.
Refreshed and renewed, we can then jump back into the stream that takes us on life's next adventure.
It came in the form of a phone call asking whether I could come to the local hospice to visit with a family. The journey to the hospice was anything but peaceful though. I was conscious of the 'rules of the road' and followed them too (lest anyone might fear that I have an inordinate desire to become best friends with the boys in blue), but my mind was in so many other places that at least once and perhaps thrice I found myself almost missing a turn or needing to re-direct in order to reach my destination.
Finally arrived at the correct coordinates, I knew that I needed a moment myself if I was to be of any assistance to the one for whom I had been summoned. I often wonder whether things happen by chance or by design, but in this case, I think I'd rather choose the latter for I had scarcely found my way in the door and along the corridor which would ultimately lead me to my destination before I met a familiar face.
She invited me to sit for a moment so that she could share some particulars of the case, and this gave me an opportunity to perceive the display of orchids that were nestled in one corner of the room. Plants and I tend to get along well; they actually are quite calming and so I welcomed the opportunity to 'check them out'. They were healthy but in need of some minor maintenance, so with the proper permissions established, I took the liberty of caring for them. The effect was seen almost instantly as my soul rejoiced and I was therefore able to re-focus in preparation for the task at hand.
The magic of a hospice is that it's an oasis in the midst of an otherwise wildly moving stream, a place where the dying can come to terms with the reality of life, and where those who must stand by and watch during some of the most stress-filled moments can find a place to be at peace, even just for a moment at a time. It's one of the rare places that pays particular attention to caring for the soul ... especially when it's most needed.
As providence would have it, I received a rather interesting article today about the sad reality that more and more people are finding that there are less and less priests to be present in times of crisis. We all need places and moments to find peace, especially when we're most distracted or scattered.
Refreshed and renewed, we can then jump back into the stream that takes us on life's next adventure.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
A letter for Ayla
Dear Ayla,
I'm breaking my own rule about not naming the people who are mentioned in this blog, but I have some really great news to share!
Even before you were born, your parents loved you very much. Shortly after you entered this world, they wanted to share the most precious gift with you: their faith. It took a bit of planning to find a date that would be convenient, but finally that day arrived.
Since your uncle (the priest) isn't assigned to one of the local parishes, he had to travel and arrived only hours before the planned start of the ceremony. Your grandparents, parents and many of their extended families also came to the church to witness this significant moment, the beginning of your life in faith.
There were a number of other families who had also asked for baptism on the same day, but one of the priests who is assigned to the parish celebrated with them, and only once that ceremony was complete did you enter on the scene, along with the rest of your invited guests.
It was Sunday, January 24, 2010, two months after your birth that all this took place. The ceremony began shortly after 3:00 pm, and about an hour later, you had been inserted into the list of those who are pilgrims on the journey of faith, saints in the making if you will.
After the ceremony was complete, your family got together to celebrate. There was a wonderful meal and so many people were there that there was hardly enough room to move in grandpa and grandma's house, but it was lots of fun because everyone was there, and yes, you were the centre of attention of course. After dinner, they all shared your baptism cake and a variety of other desserts, and because most people had to work the next day, the party broke up rather early. That's OK because you were very tired (and so were they).
That first day of your faith life was a wonderful occasion, and we'll be thanking God for quite some time to come. Mom and dad, along with many others will do our very best to teach you all about God, about his Son Jesus, and about the wonderful love they have for you. We'll also teach you how to love others, how to forgive when someone hurts you, and how to greet everyone with joy. We'll try our very best to teach you about peace, the special gift that Jesus offers each of us, and of course we'll teach you a whole lot of other things.
Hang on for the ride little one ... it's going to be lots of fun.
We love you so so much.
Uncle Tony
I'm breaking my own rule about not naming the people who are mentioned in this blog, but I have some really great news to share!
Even before you were born, your parents loved you very much. Shortly after you entered this world, they wanted to share the most precious gift with you: their faith. It took a bit of planning to find a date that would be convenient, but finally that day arrived.
Since your uncle (the priest) isn't assigned to one of the local parishes, he had to travel and arrived only hours before the planned start of the ceremony. Your grandparents, parents and many of their extended families also came to the church to witness this significant moment, the beginning of your life in faith.
There were a number of other families who had also asked for baptism on the same day, but one of the priests who is assigned to the parish celebrated with them, and only once that ceremony was complete did you enter on the scene, along with the rest of your invited guests.
It was Sunday, January 24, 2010, two months after your birth that all this took place. The ceremony began shortly after 3:00 pm, and about an hour later, you had been inserted into the list of those who are pilgrims on the journey of faith, saints in the making if you will.
After the ceremony was complete, your family got together to celebrate. There was a wonderful meal and so many people were there that there was hardly enough room to move in grandpa and grandma's house, but it was lots of fun because everyone was there, and yes, you were the centre of attention of course. After dinner, they all shared your baptism cake and a variety of other desserts, and because most people had to work the next day, the party broke up rather early. That's OK because you were very tired (and so were they).
That first day of your faith life was a wonderful occasion, and we'll be thanking God for quite some time to come. Mom and dad, along with many others will do our very best to teach you all about God, about his Son Jesus, and about the wonderful love they have for you. We'll also teach you how to love others, how to forgive when someone hurts you, and how to greet everyone with joy. We'll try our very best to teach you about peace, the special gift that Jesus offers each of us, and of course we'll teach you a whole lot of other things.
Hang on for the ride little one ... it's going to be lots of fun.
We love you so so much.
Uncle Tony
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Beloved of God
On the day of a baby's birth, there is great rejoicing among those who are closest. Parents and their families celebrate this joyful event and the day of a baby's birth is remembered every year (at least in the Western traditions) as a day of favor for the one who was born.
Today was one such day. The baby in question began her terrestrial life in mid-November, but it was today that she began her spiritual journey, one that we pray will bring her many untold joys and comforts.
The ritual proper to baptism is filled with symbolism, and since at least some of those present did not really understand the significance of these simple but profound actions, we took a little extra time to explain as we went along. At least one person this author knew found that she was unraveling new and deeper understandings to the truth about baptism even up to the day when her heavenly life began, but for us mere mortals, this is a journey of discovery and we'll take all the help we can get.
Baptism begins with the naming of a child. Similar to the day when the child is born, the parents are asked, 'What name do you give to your child?' You might say that on the day of the child's baptism, God also gives a name, so it's intriguing to think that parents who utter the name of their newborn are actually speaking these names before God. Even more fascinating is the truth that parents, who cooperate with God in the task of giving life to a new human being can actually speak on behalf of God as they utter the name(s) of their children.
Baptism is a choice made by parents on behalf of their children. Therefore, the Church asks them to explain right at the beginning of the ceremony, what it is that they are asking for and why they have been prompted to request that their child be inserted into the list of potential saints. Some parents take this opportunity to express their hopes and dreams for their children, or to ask for the Church's help in teaching their child(ren) about faith. Whether they choose to speak these words audibly or not, the journey of discovery in faith begins with Baptism.
Once the desire has been expressed, the first act is to sign the child on the forehead with a cross that is traced there. The celebrant places this cross on the child's head, as many others have done before for adults, children and infants who have requested baptism. Parents, godparents and others are also invited to repeat this sign as an outward manifestation of their willingness to share the story of their own faith with the child. Some parents continue this practice of tracing a cross on the foreheads of their children at significant moments in their lives as well: when they go to sleep at night, when they leave the house for play or for school, when they embark on a major voyage or a new endeavor, on the day of their marriage, at times when they are sick ... This simple gesture is a reminder both to adults and to children of the importance of faith, and of their commitment to living faith on a daily basis.
Listening to the word of God and offering prayers for the good of the child, its parents and godparents, and for all those who are gathered are all part of the routine of common prayer. In the words of scripture we find wisdom, consolation, encouragement and understanding. When we speak prayers to God for our needs and the needs of others, we place these cares in His hands: a gesture of trust that is born out of knowing that He guides us in love so that we in turn can love others.
At the conclusion of the Intercessory prayer, we invoke the prayer of the saints: those who have gone before us and who now guide us from Heaven as we make our way on earth. Asking for the prayers of the saints is a venerable tradition in the Church, one that we continue even today. The cult of the saints has evolved to include patron saints for most situations in life as well as those whose names we carry and who we hope to emulate in their virtue. Invoking the prayer of the saints is something we do each day throughout our earthly lives as gestures of trust that we are not alone on the journey.
A prayer of exorcism is uttered, asking God to protect the child throughout the time granted to live on this earth, and to prepare for heavenly life. Some have joked about the necessity that this prayer should be repeated at certain times throughout the child's life, but the truth is that we begin on the day of baptism to pray for the safety of the child, and this is a prayer that is continually uttered (sometimes without many words) until the day of our Homecoming.
There are actually two of the Church's three oils used for anointing during the ritual of baptism. Before the child is baptized, the Oil of Catechumens or Oil of Salvation is rubbed on the chest as an outward sign of strength, not unlike the belief in Roman times that oiling the body of a warrior helped him to be strong in battle. After the child is baptized, Sacred Chrism, a perfumed oil is rubbed on the crown of the head, as a sign that God has chosen this child and marked him or her as his own. This perfumed oil is actually a regal sign, for it speaks of a call for the child to be prophetic, kingly and priestly in service to others and to God.
Flowing water is perhaps the most poignant sign used at baptism. The origins of Christian baptism can be traced to the river Jordan and the encounter between Jesus and John the Baptist who used baptism as a sign of repentance. However, Jesus enriched the sign of forgiveness by adding a personal dimension: from the day of baptism, we are counted among the Lord's beloved children. After having duly been blessed, water is poured over the head of the child, accompanied by the recitation of the trinitarian formula: 'I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit'. If nothing else is done at a baptism, water must be poured over the head, or the person to be baptised must be submerged three times while this formula is recited.
As a visible reminder of the light of faith that is kindled on the day of baptism, a lit candle is presented to parents and godparents. A living flame is a visible reminder of the new life begun on the day of baptism, and of the responsibility to fan this flame ever so gently as the child continues to grow so that it may grow ever stronger in the heart of the one who has been entrusted with it.
It is customary in this part of the world that the one to be baptised wears a white gown on the day of baptism. This white robe is an outward sign of purity, having been washed clean of sin in the waters of baptism. It is also a sign of Christian dignity entrusted to all those who are called by Jesus to walk in his footsteps. Reminders of this white garment are ritualistically present all thorugh our lives, even to the day of the celebration of a funeral when the white pall is placed over the coffin, a reminder of the baptismal garment worn on the day when our journey begins.
As a verbal sign of commitment on the part of those who are gathered for the baptism, we are all invited to pray aloud for the child who has begun this new life. Finally, there is a special blessing prayed over the child's parents: a prayer spoken on behalf of all those who are gathered to thank God for the safe delivery of the child and to pray for protection for the parents who are the first teachers of their child in the ways of faith.
Aside from the child's parents, godparents are also appointed to assist parents in their duty as Christian role models. Godparents help parents to teach a child the ways of faith by means of their actions and words, their example and their prayer. Indeed all those who are privileged enough to be present as witnesses to a baptism have a special duty to partake in the raising of the child, as do all those who are part of the faith community that we call the Church.
Perhaps it's true: the rituals proper to baptism happen in a matter of minutes, but they take an entire lifetime to understand and to appreciate because they are rich in meaning and significance and they speak volumes about our hopes and dreams as well as about our responsibility to cooperate with God in the task of passing on our belief that we are indeed the beloved of God.
Today was one such day. The baby in question began her terrestrial life in mid-November, but it was today that she began her spiritual journey, one that we pray will bring her many untold joys and comforts.
The ritual proper to baptism is filled with symbolism, and since at least some of those present did not really understand the significance of these simple but profound actions, we took a little extra time to explain as we went along. At least one person this author knew found that she was unraveling new and deeper understandings to the truth about baptism even up to the day when her heavenly life began, but for us mere mortals, this is a journey of discovery and we'll take all the help we can get.
Baptism begins with the naming of a child. Similar to the day when the child is born, the parents are asked, 'What name do you give to your child?' You might say that on the day of the child's baptism, God also gives a name, so it's intriguing to think that parents who utter the name of their newborn are actually speaking these names before God. Even more fascinating is the truth that parents, who cooperate with God in the task of giving life to a new human being can actually speak on behalf of God as they utter the name(s) of their children.
Baptism is a choice made by parents on behalf of their children. Therefore, the Church asks them to explain right at the beginning of the ceremony, what it is that they are asking for and why they have been prompted to request that their child be inserted into the list of potential saints. Some parents take this opportunity to express their hopes and dreams for their children, or to ask for the Church's help in teaching their child(ren) about faith. Whether they choose to speak these words audibly or not, the journey of discovery in faith begins with Baptism.
Once the desire has been expressed, the first act is to sign the child on the forehead with a cross that is traced there. The celebrant places this cross on the child's head, as many others have done before for adults, children and infants who have requested baptism. Parents, godparents and others are also invited to repeat this sign as an outward manifestation of their willingness to share the story of their own faith with the child. Some parents continue this practice of tracing a cross on the foreheads of their children at significant moments in their lives as well: when they go to sleep at night, when they leave the house for play or for school, when they embark on a major voyage or a new endeavor, on the day of their marriage, at times when they are sick ... This simple gesture is a reminder both to adults and to children of the importance of faith, and of their commitment to living faith on a daily basis.
Listening to the word of God and offering prayers for the good of the child, its parents and godparents, and for all those who are gathered are all part of the routine of common prayer. In the words of scripture we find wisdom, consolation, encouragement and understanding. When we speak prayers to God for our needs and the needs of others, we place these cares in His hands: a gesture of trust that is born out of knowing that He guides us in love so that we in turn can love others.
At the conclusion of the Intercessory prayer, we invoke the prayer of the saints: those who have gone before us and who now guide us from Heaven as we make our way on earth. Asking for the prayers of the saints is a venerable tradition in the Church, one that we continue even today. The cult of the saints has evolved to include patron saints for most situations in life as well as those whose names we carry and who we hope to emulate in their virtue. Invoking the prayer of the saints is something we do each day throughout our earthly lives as gestures of trust that we are not alone on the journey.
A prayer of exorcism is uttered, asking God to protect the child throughout the time granted to live on this earth, and to prepare for heavenly life. Some have joked about the necessity that this prayer should be repeated at certain times throughout the child's life, but the truth is that we begin on the day of baptism to pray for the safety of the child, and this is a prayer that is continually uttered (sometimes without many words) until the day of our Homecoming.
There are actually two of the Church's three oils used for anointing during the ritual of baptism. Before the child is baptized, the Oil of Catechumens or Oil of Salvation is rubbed on the chest as an outward sign of strength, not unlike the belief in Roman times that oiling the body of a warrior helped him to be strong in battle. After the child is baptized, Sacred Chrism, a perfumed oil is rubbed on the crown of the head, as a sign that God has chosen this child and marked him or her as his own. This perfumed oil is actually a regal sign, for it speaks of a call for the child to be prophetic, kingly and priestly in service to others and to God.
Flowing water is perhaps the most poignant sign used at baptism. The origins of Christian baptism can be traced to the river Jordan and the encounter between Jesus and John the Baptist who used baptism as a sign of repentance. However, Jesus enriched the sign of forgiveness by adding a personal dimension: from the day of baptism, we are counted among the Lord's beloved children. After having duly been blessed, water is poured over the head of the child, accompanied by the recitation of the trinitarian formula: 'I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit'. If nothing else is done at a baptism, water must be poured over the head, or the person to be baptised must be submerged three times while this formula is recited.
As a visible reminder of the light of faith that is kindled on the day of baptism, a lit candle is presented to parents and godparents. A living flame is a visible reminder of the new life begun on the day of baptism, and of the responsibility to fan this flame ever so gently as the child continues to grow so that it may grow ever stronger in the heart of the one who has been entrusted with it.
It is customary in this part of the world that the one to be baptised wears a white gown on the day of baptism. This white robe is an outward sign of purity, having been washed clean of sin in the waters of baptism. It is also a sign of Christian dignity entrusted to all those who are called by Jesus to walk in his footsteps. Reminders of this white garment are ritualistically present all thorugh our lives, even to the day of the celebration of a funeral when the white pall is placed over the coffin, a reminder of the baptismal garment worn on the day when our journey begins.
As a verbal sign of commitment on the part of those who are gathered for the baptism, we are all invited to pray aloud for the child who has begun this new life. Finally, there is a special blessing prayed over the child's parents: a prayer spoken on behalf of all those who are gathered to thank God for the safe delivery of the child and to pray for protection for the parents who are the first teachers of their child in the ways of faith.
Aside from the child's parents, godparents are also appointed to assist parents in their duty as Christian role models. Godparents help parents to teach a child the ways of faith by means of their actions and words, their example and their prayer. Indeed all those who are privileged enough to be present as witnesses to a baptism have a special duty to partake in the raising of the child, as do all those who are part of the faith community that we call the Church.
Perhaps it's true: the rituals proper to baptism happen in a matter of minutes, but they take an entire lifetime to understand and to appreciate because they are rich in meaning and significance and they speak volumes about our hopes and dreams as well as about our responsibility to cooperate with God in the task of passing on our belief that we are indeed the beloved of God.
Surprising words
Today's gospel passage recounts an encounter between Jesus and those who knew him as a little boy.
There's not much that we know for sure about the hidden years of his life: from the time of his birth and his presentation in the Temple until his baptism, with the exception of the trip he made with his parents as a young boy to Jerusalem (remember him getting left behind when they were on their way home?).
Many years later, he arrived in the synagogue where he had perhaps learned the essentials of religious etiquite, but this time he was given the honour of choosing the scripture passage and providing some words of wisdom inspired by it. His choice of scripture passages might not have surprised his listeners, but his words surely did: 'Today, this passage is being fulfilled in your hearing'.
Sometimes we are surprised to find that Jesus is truly part of our daily life, that he is close to those who suffer, but equally as close to those who celebrate happy occasions. Why is this so? After all, if we profess to be people of faith, should we not believe that He who has promised to always be with us should be present in good times as well as trying ones?
Today's homily might help to situate us, in the midst of global and local happenings. It might even lead us to new realizations about His presence in our lives .... or is that too much to hope for? Sorry folks, but this week the recording devices were not working up to par, so alas there is no podcast version of this reflection. Tune in next week; I hope to have the wrinkles worked out by then.
There's not much that we know for sure about the hidden years of his life: from the time of his birth and his presentation in the Temple until his baptism, with the exception of the trip he made with his parents as a young boy to Jerusalem (remember him getting left behind when they were on their way home?).
Many years later, he arrived in the synagogue where he had perhaps learned the essentials of religious etiquite, but this time he was given the honour of choosing the scripture passage and providing some words of wisdom inspired by it. His choice of scripture passages might not have surprised his listeners, but his words surely did: 'Today, this passage is being fulfilled in your hearing'.
Sometimes we are surprised to find that Jesus is truly part of our daily life, that he is close to those who suffer, but equally as close to those who celebrate happy occasions. Why is this so? After all, if we profess to be people of faith, should we not believe that He who has promised to always be with us should be present in good times as well as trying ones?
Today's homily might help to situate us, in the midst of global and local happenings. It might even lead us to new realizations about His presence in our lives .... or is that too much to hope for? Sorry folks, but this week the recording devices were not working up to par, so alas there is no podcast version of this reflection. Tune in next week; I hope to have the wrinkles worked out by then.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Words of encouragement
In an Associated Press article published today, the Holy Father is encouraging priests to use various means of internet communication in order to reach out to the faithful:
Pope Encourages Priests to Blog, Interact With Faithful Online
The pope is encouraging priests to go online, praising new communication as a 'gift to humanity' when used to foster friendship and understanding.
VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has a new commandment for priests struggling to get their message across: Go forth and blog. The pope, whose own presence on the Web has heavily grown in recent years, urged priests on Saturday to use all multimedia tools at their disposal to preach the Gospel and engage in dialogue with people of other religions and cultures. And just using e-mail or surfing the Web is often not enough: Priests should use cutting-edge technologies to express themselves and lead their communities, Benedict said in a message released by the Vatican.
"The spread of multimedia communications and its rich 'menu of options' might make us think it sufficient simply to be present on the Web," but priests are "challenged to proclaim the Gospel by employing the latest generation of audiovisual resources," he said.
The message, prepared for the World Day of Communications, suggests such possibilities as images, videos, animated features, blogs, and Web sites. Benedict said young priests should become familiar with new media while still in seminary, though he stressed that the use of new technologies must reflect theological and spiritual principles.
"Priests present in the world of digital communications should be less notable for their media savvy than for their priestly heart, their closeness to Christ," he said.
The 82-year-old pope has often been wary of new media, warning about what he has called the tendency of entertainment media, in particular, to trivialize sex and promote violence, while lamenting that the endless stream of news can make people insensitive to tragedies.
But Benedict has also praised new ways of communicating as a "gift to humanity" when used to foster friendship and understanding. The Vatican has tried hard to keep up to speed with the rapidly changing field.
Last year it opened a YouTube channel as well as a portal dedicated to the pope. The Pope2You site gives news on the pontiff's trips and speeches and features a Facebook application that allows users to send postcards with photos of Benedict and excerpts from his messages to their friends.
Many priests and top prelates already interact with the faithful online. One of Benedict's advisers, Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, the archbishop of Naples, has his own Facebook profile and so does Cardinal Roger Mahony, archbishop of Los Angeles.
In Saturday's message -- titled "The priest and pastoral ministry in a digital world: new media at the service of the Word" -- Benedict urged special care in contacts with other cultures and beliefs.
A presence on the Web, "precisely because it brings us into contact with the followers of other religions, nonbelievers and people of every culture, requires sensitivity to those who do not believe, the disheartened and those who have a deep, unarticulated desire for enduring truth and the absolute," he said.
Monsignor Claudio Maria Celli, who heads the Vatican's social communications office, said that Benedict's words aimed to encourage reflection in the church on the positive uses of new media.
"That doesn't mean that (every priest) must open a blog or a Web site. It means that the church and the faithful must engage in this ministry in a digital world," Celli told reporters. "At some point, a balance will be found."
Celli, 68, said that young priests would have no trouble following the pope's message, but, he joked, "those who have a certain age will struggle a bit more."
Pope Encourages Priests to Blog, Interact With Faithful Online
The pope is encouraging priests to go online, praising new communication as a 'gift to humanity' when used to foster friendship and understanding.
VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has a new commandment for priests struggling to get their message across: Go forth and blog. The pope, whose own presence on the Web has heavily grown in recent years, urged priests on Saturday to use all multimedia tools at their disposal to preach the Gospel and engage in dialogue with people of other religions and cultures. And just using e-mail or surfing the Web is often not enough: Priests should use cutting-edge technologies to express themselves and lead their communities, Benedict said in a message released by the Vatican.
"The spread of multimedia communications and its rich 'menu of options' might make us think it sufficient simply to be present on the Web," but priests are "challenged to proclaim the Gospel by employing the latest generation of audiovisual resources," he said.
The message, prepared for the World Day of Communications, suggests such possibilities as images, videos, animated features, blogs, and Web sites. Benedict said young priests should become familiar with new media while still in seminary, though he stressed that the use of new technologies must reflect theological and spiritual principles.
"Priests present in the world of digital communications should be less notable for their media savvy than for their priestly heart, their closeness to Christ," he said.
The 82-year-old pope has often been wary of new media, warning about what he has called the tendency of entertainment media, in particular, to trivialize sex and promote violence, while lamenting that the endless stream of news can make people insensitive to tragedies.
But Benedict has also praised new ways of communicating as a "gift to humanity" when used to foster friendship and understanding. The Vatican has tried hard to keep up to speed with the rapidly changing field.
Last year it opened a YouTube channel as well as a portal dedicated to the pope. The Pope2You site gives news on the pontiff's trips and speeches and features a Facebook application that allows users to send postcards with photos of Benedict and excerpts from his messages to their friends.
Many priests and top prelates already interact with the faithful online. One of Benedict's advisers, Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, the archbishop of Naples, has his own Facebook profile and so does Cardinal Roger Mahony, archbishop of Los Angeles.
In Saturday's message -- titled "The priest and pastoral ministry in a digital world: new media at the service of the Word" -- Benedict urged special care in contacts with other cultures and beliefs.
A presence on the Web, "precisely because it brings us into contact with the followers of other religions, nonbelievers and people of every culture, requires sensitivity to those who do not believe, the disheartened and those who have a deep, unarticulated desire for enduring truth and the absolute," he said.
Monsignor Claudio Maria Celli, who heads the Vatican's social communications office, said that Benedict's words aimed to encourage reflection in the church on the positive uses of new media.
"That doesn't mean that (every priest) must open a blog or a Web site. It means that the church and the faithful must engage in this ministry in a digital world," Celli told reporters. "At some point, a balance will be found."
Celli, 68, said that young priests would have no trouble following the pope's message, but, he joked, "those who have a certain age will struggle a bit more."
Priesthood in the digital age
For centuries, priests have faced the challenge of proclaiming hope and love to the world via their weekly homilies and stiven to be means of His presence by means of their physical presence among the faithful. These truths are just as valid today as they ever have been.
However, in an age that is increasingly dependent on technology (which by the way was supposed to make life easier ... a matter which is still up for debate), priests too must find new ways to harness the power of these tools to share the good news with those who otherwise are increasingly absent from many of our traditional venues and avenues.
This morning, the Holy Father issued his Message for the 44th World Communications Day. This year, in view of the fact that we are celebrating a special Year for Priests, His Holiness speaks of the challenges and opportunities provided to priests as a result of the technology that is at our fingertips, and encourages all priests to use these tools whereever possible to enhance their ministry.
Venturing into this world can be scary for some and exciting for others, but to not do so runs the risk of allowing the message to go unheard, and this indeed would be more than a pity since the message of life and love first proclaimed by Jesus himself is needed more than ever in our world today.
However, in an age that is increasingly dependent on technology (which by the way was supposed to make life easier ... a matter which is still up for debate), priests too must find new ways to harness the power of these tools to share the good news with those who otherwise are increasingly absent from many of our traditional venues and avenues.
This morning, the Holy Father issued his Message for the 44th World Communications Day. This year, in view of the fact that we are celebrating a special Year for Priests, His Holiness speaks of the challenges and opportunities provided to priests as a result of the technology that is at our fingertips, and encourages all priests to use these tools whereever possible to enhance their ministry.
Venturing into this world can be scary for some and exciting for others, but to not do so runs the risk of allowing the message to go unheard, and this indeed would be more than a pity since the message of life and love first proclaimed by Jesus himself is needed more than ever in our world today.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Remembering the sometimes forgotten
They have spent an untold number of years at the service of others. They have given of their hearts in order to introduce others to the heart of the One who welcomes the lost, forgives the sinner and celebrates the accomplishments of life, but for various reasons once they're retired, they sometimes fall off the radar and can be all but forgotten.
Tonight, I invited some of these holy ones to share a meal ... and the response was more than rewarding.
I suppose it's not every day that they receive such an invitation, and so they were more than willing to join us for this time of friendship. It doesn't take much to express gratitude to others, and just a little effort goes a really long way. Thanks to the dedication of the staff who work here, all those who were present enjoyed a wonderful evening: a moment to visit with those who we may not see for long periods of time; an opportunity to break bread with those who have shared our lives, and laid the foundations for the work that we are now doing; an occasion for some of those who are now retired, and who don't often get the opportunity to visit to get caught up with one another.
More than anything, these sometimes forgotten ones felt tonight that they were remembered and valued for who they are. That's a really good thing, and I was just happy to have been able to play a small part in bringing them together to say thanks.
Tonight, I invited some of these holy ones to share a meal ... and the response was more than rewarding.
I suppose it's not every day that they receive such an invitation, and so they were more than willing to join us for this time of friendship. It doesn't take much to express gratitude to others, and just a little effort goes a really long way. Thanks to the dedication of the staff who work here, all those who were present enjoyed a wonderful evening: a moment to visit with those who we may not see for long periods of time; an opportunity to break bread with those who have shared our lives, and laid the foundations for the work that we are now doing; an occasion for some of those who are now retired, and who don't often get the opportunity to visit to get caught up with one another.
More than anything, these sometimes forgotten ones felt tonight that they were remembered and valued for who they are. That's a really good thing, and I was just happy to have been able to play a small part in bringing them together to say thanks.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Doing His work
Some days can flow by like a lazy river, and others seem to rush by like a roaring torrent. At times, we need to stop and take stock of the ways that we leave our mark on the hearts of those who seem to breeze in and out of our lives.
Was it the person with whom I took a moment to chat this morning while leaving the local fitness centre who got a glimpse of something that made her day that much easier? Perhaps it was the couple who came to see me this morning to speak about their plans for a wedding in a year's time who finally encountered the tender welcome of Him who always has room for the stranger to feel at home. Maybe there was a resident at the nearby retirement home who heard a word of wisdom or encouragement and was filled with renewed hope. Maybe, just maybe there was a soul in search of healing who found solace today because of something that was said (or not said). Perhaps there were just a few who were also challenged today to grow, to change in some way and to become more loving.
There never seem to be enough hours in the day to do all that needs to be done. There are always more meetings that need to happen, more people who are in need, more loved ones who reach out in hope for those who are hurting.
At the end of the day, each of us must first give thanks for all that has been accomplished, and then leave the rest up to Someone else who can complete the good work that has been begun. Then the sanscrit saying can truly take root in our lives:
Look to this day for it is life ... the very life of life;
Yesterday is already a memory and tomorrow is only a vision;
but today well lived
makes every yesterday a memory of happiness
and every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Was it the person with whom I took a moment to chat this morning while leaving the local fitness centre who got a glimpse of something that made her day that much easier? Perhaps it was the couple who came to see me this morning to speak about their plans for a wedding in a year's time who finally encountered the tender welcome of Him who always has room for the stranger to feel at home. Maybe there was a resident at the nearby retirement home who heard a word of wisdom or encouragement and was filled with renewed hope. Maybe, just maybe there was a soul in search of healing who found solace today because of something that was said (or not said). Perhaps there were just a few who were also challenged today to grow, to change in some way and to become more loving.
There never seem to be enough hours in the day to do all that needs to be done. There are always more meetings that need to happen, more people who are in need, more loved ones who reach out in hope for those who are hurting.
At the end of the day, each of us must first give thanks for all that has been accomplished, and then leave the rest up to Someone else who can complete the good work that has been begun. Then the sanscrit saying can truly take root in our lives:
Look to this day for it is life ... the very life of life;
Yesterday is already a memory and tomorrow is only a vision;
but today well lived
makes every yesterday a memory of happiness
and every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Every little bit counts
In the waning hours of this day, I was made aware of a phone call that had come in today. An invittion had been lobbed our way to partake in an organizational meeting that was happening tonight.
For the past year and a half or so, there have been regular gatherings at a neighbouring church here in town for Taizé prayer. The next such gathering is scheduled to take place this coming Sunday. Conscious of the many thousands who are suffering from the earthquake that hit Haiti last week, and still hearing of the numerous aftershocks that have been rumbling through the area even up to today, the organizers want to offer this Sunday's Taizé prayer session as a time for Christians of all persuasions, and for all those who are interested to gather with them in prayer for those who are still suffering on the island nation.
Members of various faith traditions are being invitied to take part, and all are welcome to gather at Ste-Anne-des-Pins church on Sunday evening beginning at 7:00 pm.
For the past year and a half or so, there have been regular gatherings at a neighbouring church here in town for Taizé prayer. The next such gathering is scheduled to take place this coming Sunday. Conscious of the many thousands who are suffering from the earthquake that hit Haiti last week, and still hearing of the numerous aftershocks that have been rumbling through the area even up to today, the organizers want to offer this Sunday's Taizé prayer session as a time for Christians of all persuasions, and for all those who are interested to gather with them in prayer for those who are still suffering on the island nation.
Members of various faith traditions are being invitied to take part, and all are welcome to gather at Ste-Anne-des-Pins church on Sunday evening beginning at 7:00 pm.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
When technology and faith meet
The good news is that we have a newborn at home (my neice, and she's doing very well). We've had to jump through a few hoops in order to settle on the date for her baptism, but finally we found the day: this coming Sunday.
Before we had arranged the date, I'd had spent some time speaking with the parents of this little angel, outlining the ceremony for baptism, and the responsibilities that would be theirs from that day hence. To be sure, the responsibility to raise a child, and to teach her about faith is something that parents don't take on on their own, so thankfully there are godparents to assist, and others who will come into her life at various moments.
Now that the parents have chosen all the godparents, the last part of the puzzle was to do a sit-down with the chosen ones, to review with them the responsiblities that they are about to undertake, and at the same time, to review the ritual that we will observe in a few days' time. Just one problem: I live in one city, while the parents and godparents live in another. Even more complicated is the fact that the parents and godparents all live in different parts of the same city. This means that we needed to find a way to bring us all together in order to have our tête à tête.
Solution: teleconferencing and three-way calling. These are technologies that have been around for quite some time, but things that are not always used by those of us who don't do distance conferencing for a living. This meant that we had to figure out first who of us had the capacity to accommodate three-way calling, and then put all the players on the line. It took a bit of thinking and a bit of shared splitting and splicing of calls, but finally we all were online, and able to chat.
The call took only about 30 minutes once it was up and running, but without it there would have been a number of emails or other correspondence flying across the internet, and where communication happens in pieces and bits, there is always the risk that something which needs to be said is left unsaid, or that details which should be communicated get left out of the equation, and the result is that confusion reigns.
Thankfully that won't be the case in this instance. Ah, and the baptism in question will go ahead on Sunday.
Before we had arranged the date, I'd had spent some time speaking with the parents of this little angel, outlining the ceremony for baptism, and the responsibilities that would be theirs from that day hence. To be sure, the responsibility to raise a child, and to teach her about faith is something that parents don't take on on their own, so thankfully there are godparents to assist, and others who will come into her life at various moments.
Now that the parents have chosen all the godparents, the last part of the puzzle was to do a sit-down with the chosen ones, to review with them the responsiblities that they are about to undertake, and at the same time, to review the ritual that we will observe in a few days' time. Just one problem: I live in one city, while the parents and godparents live in another. Even more complicated is the fact that the parents and godparents all live in different parts of the same city. This means that we needed to find a way to bring us all together in order to have our tête à tête.
Solution: teleconferencing and three-way calling. These are technologies that have been around for quite some time, but things that are not always used by those of us who don't do distance conferencing for a living. This meant that we had to figure out first who of us had the capacity to accommodate three-way calling, and then put all the players on the line. It took a bit of thinking and a bit of shared splitting and splicing of calls, but finally we all were online, and able to chat.
The call took only about 30 minutes once it was up and running, but without it there would have been a number of emails or other correspondence flying across the internet, and where communication happens in pieces and bits, there is always the risk that something which needs to be said is left unsaid, or that details which should be communicated get left out of the equation, and the result is that confusion reigns.
Thankfully that won't be the case in this instance. Ah, and the baptism in question will go ahead on Sunday.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Eastern Epiphany
After sunset tonight the Byzantine Church began celebrating the Theophany (what the Western Church calls the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord).
In the local Ukrainian Catholic community, the Theophany is celebrated with a twelve-course meatless dinner and then the recitation of Solemn Compline, which is a prayer service that lasts about an hour or so, and during which the priest who is presiding blesses water. Traditionally, the blessing happens at a water source (swimming pool, stream, ocean etc) that is located close by the church, but in places where it's too cold to bless running water because of frigid winter temperatures, there is room for a little lattitude.
In our case, the water was held in a portable font and blessed within the church. At the competion of the blessing, those present are invited to drink of the newly-blessed water before departing the church.
Relations between the Ukrainian and Roman Catholics (at least in this part of the world) are very good, thanks to the hospitality of our Byzantine brothers and sisters. Sharing in these cultural and religious traditions helps us all to appreciate one another and our various ways of celebrating faith.
In the local Ukrainian Catholic community, the Theophany is celebrated with a twelve-course meatless dinner and then the recitation of Solemn Compline, which is a prayer service that lasts about an hour or so, and during which the priest who is presiding blesses water. Traditionally, the blessing happens at a water source (swimming pool, stream, ocean etc) that is located close by the church, but in places where it's too cold to bless running water because of frigid winter temperatures, there is room for a little lattitude.
In our case, the water was held in a portable font and blessed within the church. At the competion of the blessing, those present are invited to drink of the newly-blessed water before departing the church.
Relations between the Ukrainian and Roman Catholics (at least in this part of the world) are very good, thanks to the hospitality of our Byzantine brothers and sisters. Sharing in these cultural and religious traditions helps us all to appreciate one another and our various ways of celebrating faith.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
From Cana to Haiti
Bringing the Word to life is what it's all about. Sometimes it's not easy to find the connections between the world of biblical times and today's reality, but this weekend is not one of those.
How, you may ask, does one connect the story of a wedding in a small town in Galilee to the dramatic goings-on of today? Well, see for yourself or listen if you prefer.
Impossible situations can indeed have viable solutions, but it takes ingenuity, generosity and lots of love.
How, you may ask, does one connect the story of a wedding in a small town in Galilee to the dramatic goings-on of today? Well, see for yourself or listen if you prefer.
Impossible situations can indeed have viable solutions, but it takes ingenuity, generosity and lots of love.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
When in need
You never know from one day to another what will come at you, and even at times when schedules are worked out well in advance, there always seems to be room for adjustments. Sometimes these additions are unexpected, but they turn out to be absolute moments of grace.
Today I was asked to visit with a patient in the hospital. As it turns out, he's younger than I and is very lucky. He blacked out, the result of a drug-induced state (he believes) and came just too close to dying. Seeing him today, he's still unstable, very tired, and his body is healing - he was very lucky indeed. As it stands, he is being given medical attention to help his body heal, but what of his spirit, what of his mind, what of his soul?
He's been told that once he's stable enough, he has an opportunity to partake in a rehabilitation program. I think he's been down that road before, and just might be kicking himself right about now because he's convinced that the first time through wasn't so successful. However there are a few bright lights in his life: a little girl who hasn't had a chance to get to know him too much, but who he would love to have the chance to know and love, members of his extended family who have loved him and who continue to stand by his side, and now an outsider who is willing to visit, to chat, to be frankly honest and to help him be all that he can be.
At moments like these, we realize that life is oh so fragile, and that it can be and is abused all too often. While tragedy strikes in another part of the world, we don't really have to look that far to find those who truly need our help.
Today I was asked to visit with a patient in the hospital. As it turns out, he's younger than I and is very lucky. He blacked out, the result of a drug-induced state (he believes) and came just too close to dying. Seeing him today, he's still unstable, very tired, and his body is healing - he was very lucky indeed. As it stands, he is being given medical attention to help his body heal, but what of his spirit, what of his mind, what of his soul?
He's been told that once he's stable enough, he has an opportunity to partake in a rehabilitation program. I think he's been down that road before, and just might be kicking himself right about now because he's convinced that the first time through wasn't so successful. However there are a few bright lights in his life: a little girl who hasn't had a chance to get to know him too much, but who he would love to have the chance to know and love, members of his extended family who have loved him and who continue to stand by his side, and now an outsider who is willing to visit, to chat, to be frankly honest and to help him be all that he can be.
At moments like these, we realize that life is oh so fragile, and that it can be and is abused all too often. While tragedy strikes in another part of the world, we don't really have to look that far to find those who truly need our help.
Friday, January 15, 2010
There and helping
There are many groups of people on the ground in Haiti. Foreign agencies have been present there for many years, each doing their part to care for those who most need the basics in life. Haiti is among the poorest nations on earth, and the lessons learned from lending a helping hand are invaluable for those who have the opportunity to be there.
Among those who are helping is the group known as Healing Hands. With the aid of pictures and words, they are spreading the news about the devastation that has resulted from Tuesday's earthquake, and the efforts being made to help those who are suffering, disoriented, lost, frustrated and trying to restore order to their lives.
Many other organizations also have news on their websites about the work that is being done. What's important is that much is being done to show love and faith to those who most need our help now.
Among those who are helping is the group known as Healing Hands. With the aid of pictures and words, they are spreading the news about the devastation that has resulted from Tuesday's earthquake, and the efforts being made to help those who are suffering, disoriented, lost, frustrated and trying to restore order to their lives.
Many other organizations also have news on their websites about the work that is being done. What's important is that much is being done to show love and faith to those who most need our help now.
Prayers for the people
The first plane load of earthquake evacuees from Port-au-Prince have arrived in Montreal as of last night, and this morning, there are interviews being conducted with some of them on CTV's Canada AM.
Still from our point of view, the question is being asked: What can we do? Aside from financial aid, perhaps we are best to pray for the repose of the souls of those who have died, and for the safety of those who have survived. We should also remember to pray for those who are working so hard to rescue any who are still trapped - time is of the essence now to rescue any of them too.
Locally, there is a group who will gather tonight at 7:30 pm to pray a rosary for victims and for those who are working in Haiti to free those who are trapped.
Many survivors and those who look on from afar are distraught, and where there is trauma, emotions always run high. Much of the infrastructure in Haiti has been compromised, so while others take care of basic needs as best they can, the best thing we can do is to pray that somehow those who find it most difficult to recognize love in action may be given new eyes to see, new ears to listen and renewed hearts to care for others who need to know that they are not alone.
Still from our point of view, the question is being asked: What can we do? Aside from financial aid, perhaps we are best to pray for the repose of the souls of those who have died, and for the safety of those who have survived. We should also remember to pray for those who are working so hard to rescue any who are still trapped - time is of the essence now to rescue any of them too.
Locally, there is a group who will gather tonight at 7:30 pm to pray a rosary for victims and for those who are working in Haiti to free those who are trapped.
Many survivors and those who look on from afar are distraught, and where there is trauma, emotions always run high. Much of the infrastructure in Haiti has been compromised, so while others take care of basic needs as best they can, the best thing we can do is to pray that somehow those who find it most difficult to recognize love in action may be given new eyes to see, new ears to listen and renewed hearts to care for others who need to know that they are not alone.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
How can I help?
Many of us are disturbed and heartbroken over the situation currently facing our brothers and sisters in Haiti. From a distance, perhaps we feel very powerless to make a difference although there's a part of us that's compelled to so something in some way or fashion.
At the moment, it seems that the most effective way to help is through financial support. There are a number of organizations with presence already established on the ground in Haiti who can ensure that our help gets to the places it's needed most, and in the most efficient fashion.
Assistance will no doubt be needed for many months to come if not longer before the country can come back to any sense of normality, even though they will doubtless continue to face the myriad of challenges they did before this catastrophe struck.
As of this weekend, the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie is cooperating with efforts to send assistance to Haiti. Any funds raised in the next two weeks will be forwarded through the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace, the Canadian Bishops' missionary arm to those in Haiti who can benefit most.
In addition, there are a number of organizations who can help:
Donations are being accepted no matter how large or small. Every penny counts when time is of the essence.
At the moment, it seems that the most effective way to help is through financial support. There are a number of organizations with presence already established on the ground in Haiti who can ensure that our help gets to the places it's needed most, and in the most efficient fashion.
Assistance will no doubt be needed for many months to come if not longer before the country can come back to any sense of normality, even though they will doubtless continue to face the myriad of challenges they did before this catastrophe struck.
As of this weekend, the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie is cooperating with efforts to send assistance to Haiti. Any funds raised in the next two weeks will be forwarded through the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace, the Canadian Bishops' missionary arm to those in Haiti who can benefit most.
In addition, there are a number of organizations who can help:
Donations are being accepted no matter how large or small. Every penny counts when time is of the essence.
After the earthquake
In the overnight hours Tuesday, and into the early morning hours of Wednesday of this week, there was a violent earthquake just metres below the surface of the ground in Haiti. Since then, news has quickly been arriving in Canada and other parts of the world about the devastation that has taken place.
Canadians have already mobilized vast amounts of assistance which is either already in Haiti or will soon arrive. In addition, the Canadian Government has announced today that it will match any donations made by individuals to organizations such as the Red Cross who have an established presence on the ground in that Caribbean nation.
Initial reports told of the destruction of major buildings in the captial city Port-au-Prince, and subsequent dispatches describe the horrors currently facing residents who are trying even now to find loved ones who are lost beneath rubble. The Archbishop of Port-au-Prince was killed in Tuesday's earthquake and many priests and seminarians are still missing.
A report written for Agencia Fides, the news arm of the Vatican Congregation for Evangelization of Peoples says:
Port-au-Prince is completely devastated. The Cathedral, the Archbishop's residence, all the large churches, all the seminaries are reduced to rubble. The pastor of the Cathedral, who is safe and sound, reported that the Archbishop has died beneath the rubble and a certain number of seminarians and priests are trapped. The Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti reports that the presidential palace has been heavily damaged as are many other buildings ...
In addition to the fact that many have died, there will also be problems finding fresh water and food for the living. Even at the Apostolic Nunciature, it is not safe to enter the building which is still subject to aftershocks, so the staff (who is unharmed) must camp in the garden.
Aside from those who have been confirmed dead, there are many who are still missing, and communication between Haiti and other countries is not easy to say the least. For those who await word from or about their loved ones, these are indeed trying times.
Canadians have already mobilized vast amounts of assistance which is either already in Haiti or will soon arrive. In addition, the Canadian Government has announced today that it will match any donations made by individuals to organizations such as the Red Cross who have an established presence on the ground in that Caribbean nation.
Initial reports told of the destruction of major buildings in the captial city Port-au-Prince, and subsequent dispatches describe the horrors currently facing residents who are trying even now to find loved ones who are lost beneath rubble. The Archbishop of Port-au-Prince was killed in Tuesday's earthquake and many priests and seminarians are still missing.
A report written for Agencia Fides, the news arm of the Vatican Congregation for Evangelization of Peoples says:
Port-au-Prince is completely devastated. The Cathedral, the Archbishop's residence, all the large churches, all the seminaries are reduced to rubble. The pastor of the Cathedral, who is safe and sound, reported that the Archbishop has died beneath the rubble and a certain number of seminarians and priests are trapped. The Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti reports that the presidential palace has been heavily damaged as are many other buildings ...
In addition to the fact that many have died, there will also be problems finding fresh water and food for the living. Even at the Apostolic Nunciature, it is not safe to enter the building which is still subject to aftershocks, so the staff (who is unharmed) must camp in the garden.
Aside from those who have been confirmed dead, there are many who are still missing, and communication between Haiti and other countries is not easy to say the least. For those who await word from or about their loved ones, these are indeed trying times.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
News from the Cathedral
It's all over, or has it begun?
The long awaited Episcopal Ordination for Canada's youngest bishop has now come to its completion, and Vincent Nguyen is now numbered among the successors of Peter.
Like yesterday's ordination ceremony which took place in St. Peter's Cathedral (London), this second day of ceremonies was also broadcast in a live webcast courtesy of Salt+Light Television. There were a few technical glitches this time round, but thanks to the wonders of technology and the dedication of a hard-working and committed staff, many who would not have made it into St. Michael's today had a chance to 'be there' albeit vertually.
The good folk at S+L have also posted interviews which they conducted with both of Toronto's newly minted Auxiliaries:
The long awaited Episcopal Ordination for Canada's youngest bishop has now come to its completion, and Vincent Nguyen is now numbered among the successors of Peter.
Like yesterday's ordination ceremony which took place in St. Peter's Cathedral (London), this second day of ceremonies was also broadcast in a live webcast courtesy of Salt+Light Television. There were a few technical glitches this time round, but thanks to the wonders of technology and the dedication of a hard-working and committed staff, many who would not have made it into St. Michael's today had a chance to 'be there' albeit vertually.
The good folk at S+L have also posted interviews which they conducted with both of Toronto's newly minted Auxiliaries:
- His Excellency, the Most Reverend William McGrattan; and
- His Excellency, the Most Reverend Vincent Nguyen
For its part, the Archdiocese of Toronto has posted extensive information about the newly-ordained bishops on its website, including
- Press releases announcing details of the Ordination ceremonies,
- copies of their curricula vitae,
- their respective Coats of Arms (images and explanations), and
- resources including background information about how a bishop is named, an explanation of episcopal vestments, and some general statistics about the Archdiocese of Toronto
All this excitement will doubtless last through the night, but if all bets are on, the work will begin in earnest as the sun rises on tomorrow (if it hasn't already started).
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
From London to Toronto
Today was the day. With all the fanfare customary to gatherings of this ilk, the Episcopal Ordination ceremony for William McGrattan, a priest of the Diocese of London who has recently been appointed as Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto, took place this afternoon in the Cathedral of Saint Peter in London.
Even before the first notes of the entrance hymn were struck, the worship aid was prepared, and made available to people near and far. This is the ecclesiastical equivalent of a program or playbill, complete with the names of all the important personalities and a fair smattering of history, including the description of the coat of arms chosen by the ordinand and all you'd ever need to know about the Eucharistic celebration that took place today.
Because the ordination ceremony was open to invited guests only (a question of fitting everyone into the Cathedral), Salt + Light Television streamed the video for the benefit of those who couldn't get near the doors. At least 150 or so took advantage of this option to view the almost three-hour ceremony.
As the sun sets on the London Cathedral, preparations are in high gear for tomorrow's Episcopal Ordination (yes there are two of them this week) of His Excellency, Vincent Nguyen, who will be Canada's youngest bishop (at age 43 years) as of tomorrow afternoon. Coverage of tomorrow's Ordination will also be carried live by streaming video on Salt + Light's website beginning at 3:00 pm local time.
Even before the first notes of the entrance hymn were struck, the worship aid was prepared, and made available to people near and far. This is the ecclesiastical equivalent of a program or playbill, complete with the names of all the important personalities and a fair smattering of history, including the description of the coat of arms chosen by the ordinand and all you'd ever need to know about the Eucharistic celebration that took place today.
Because the ordination ceremony was open to invited guests only (a question of fitting everyone into the Cathedral), Salt + Light Television streamed the video for the benefit of those who couldn't get near the doors. At least 150 or so took advantage of this option to view the almost three-hour ceremony.
As the sun sets on the London Cathedral, preparations are in high gear for tomorrow's Episcopal Ordination (yes there are two of them this week) of His Excellency, Vincent Nguyen, who will be Canada's youngest bishop (at age 43 years) as of tomorrow afternoon. Coverage of tomorrow's Ordination will also be carried live by streaming video on Salt + Light's website beginning at 3:00 pm local time.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Faith for life
Today the Church celebrates the Baptism of the Lord. Images of an adult Jesus standing in the river Jordan are described each year on this day, and parallels are usually drawn to the time when each of us was brought to the font, ourselves baptised into Him who gives us life.
This year though, it might be helpful to think also of the implications of baptism, for to do otherwise would be to confine the beauty of the sacrament to a few moments, and to risk missing out on the true richness of the actions and words that are echoed during that dialogue. In truth, the beauty of baptism only comes to light when it is seen against the backdrop of life in its fullness, and a true appreciation of Jesus' involvement in our lives only makes sense (to a certain extent) for those who live life, complete with its moments of celebration, and its trials.
Here then for your edification and hopefully for your spiritual enrichment is the text of this week's reflection on the Baptism of the Lord. As always, the podcast version is also available.
This year though, it might be helpful to think also of the implications of baptism, for to do otherwise would be to confine the beauty of the sacrament to a few moments, and to risk missing out on the true richness of the actions and words that are echoed during that dialogue. In truth, the beauty of baptism only comes to light when it is seen against the backdrop of life in its fullness, and a true appreciation of Jesus' involvement in our lives only makes sense (to a certain extent) for those who live life, complete with its moments of celebration, and its trials.
Here then for your edification and hopefully for your spiritual enrichment is the text of this week's reflection on the Baptism of the Lord. As always, the podcast version is also available.
Weekend wisdom
A few years ago, the latest trend was bracelets worn by teenagers. Each bracelet would bear the acronym WWJD. Well it seems that there's another one that's made its way onto the scene:
P.U.S.H.
Pray Until Something Happens!
P.U.S.H.
Pray Until Something Happens!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
To the tomb ... and back
He breezed in yesterday, and almost as quickly as he had appeared, he was gone again. That's the way some things happen in life, and it's often only after a bit of time has gone by that we are able to remember much less appreciate the lessons learned or the words spoken.
A few months ago, he had borrowed some things from me in preparation for a sabbatical that he was to live during the latter part of last year. Now, he's back and returning the 'things'. While I'm sure he's still processing all that he's lived in these past few months, there is evidence that the experience was well worth it. When I asked for his impressions (something I'm sure many have done and will do in the coming days and weeks), his one response was 'you have to go'.
I could hear the excitement in his voice, the assurance that there is much at work within and I know only too well what it's like to try putting words to experiences that have recently been lived. Only with careful attention to unpacking such intense adventures can we begin to appreciate the changes that are effected, and the lessons that are learned.
I look forward to hearing more stories, more about the adventure, and (if he'll share them) benefitting from the wisdom that has been gleaned.
Ah, in case you're wondering about the title for this piece, it comes from the ancient custom of referring to a voyage to the Eternal City (Rome) as a pilgrimage to the Tomb of Peter. Throughout history, such pilgrimages have had the effect of changing those who have engaged in them, and it's already obvious that for him the experience proves to be true.
A few months ago, he had borrowed some things from me in preparation for a sabbatical that he was to live during the latter part of last year. Now, he's back and returning the 'things'. While I'm sure he's still processing all that he's lived in these past few months, there is evidence that the experience was well worth it. When I asked for his impressions (something I'm sure many have done and will do in the coming days and weeks), his one response was 'you have to go'.
I could hear the excitement in his voice, the assurance that there is much at work within and I know only too well what it's like to try putting words to experiences that have recently been lived. Only with careful attention to unpacking such intense adventures can we begin to appreciate the changes that are effected, and the lessons that are learned.
I look forward to hearing more stories, more about the adventure, and (if he'll share them) benefitting from the wisdom that has been gleaned.
Ah, in case you're wondering about the title for this piece, it comes from the ancient custom of referring to a voyage to the Eternal City (Rome) as a pilgrimage to the Tomb of Peter. Throughout history, such pilgrimages have had the effect of changing those who have engaged in them, and it's already obvious that for him the experience proves to be true.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Wisdom for today
A farmer learns more from a bad harvest than from a good one.
With this in mind, perhaps we should pay more attention to asking ourselves questions like, 'what have I learned from today's experiences?' If all of us did this on a regular basis, we would be all the wiser.
With this in mind, perhaps we should pay more attention to asking ourselves questions like, 'what have I learned from today's experiences?' If all of us did this on a regular basis, we would be all the wiser.
News for Parramatta
This morning, the Holy Father, Benedict XVI appointed a new bishop for the Diocese of Parramatta (Australia).
Two separate acts actually took place today: the Holy Father accepted the resignation from pastoral government of the Diocese presented by His Excellency, Kevin Michael Manning whose reached the age of 75 and therefore must submit his letter of resignation in accordance with the provisions of Canon Law (cn. 401, 1);
The second act announced is the appointment of the new leader for Parramatta, His Excellency, Anthony Colin Fisher, OP. If memory still serves well enough, I believe that His Excellency was the Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney who was put in charge of the organization of World Youth Day 2008, commonly referred to as Wydsyd.
Australia has been in the news lately because of a miracle recently attributed to the intercession of Blessed Mary McKillop. With the approval of this miracle the way to her canonization has effectively been paved and can be expected imminently. Mary McKillop would be the very first Aussie-born saint, so there's great cause for excitement among Catholics down under.
Two separate acts actually took place today: the Holy Father accepted the resignation from pastoral government of the Diocese presented by His Excellency, Kevin Michael Manning whose reached the age of 75 and therefore must submit his letter of resignation in accordance with the provisions of Canon Law (cn. 401, 1);
The second act announced is the appointment of the new leader for Parramatta, His Excellency, Anthony Colin Fisher, OP. If memory still serves well enough, I believe that His Excellency was the Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney who was put in charge of the organization of World Youth Day 2008, commonly referred to as Wydsyd.
Australia has been in the news lately because of a miracle recently attributed to the intercession of Blessed Mary McKillop. With the approval of this miracle the way to her canonization has effectively been paved and can be expected imminently. Mary McKillop would be the very first Aussie-born saint, so there's great cause for excitement among Catholics down under.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Merry Christmas ... Julian
Those who follow the Julian calendar are observing Christmas Day tomorrow.
Perhaps best known among this group (at least to some of us in this part of the world) are Ukrainian Catholics. Thus it was that I was invited, along with a number of my confreres to attend the annual Christmas Eve liturgy celebrated at the local Ukrainian Catholic church.
The liturgy began at 8:00 pm tonight with the recitation of Compline (Night Prayer) and immediately followed by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom. This was not the first time that I was present for Christmas celebrations with our Ukrainian Catholic neighbours, but it was the first time that we (Roman clergy) were invited to partake by singing parts of the litanies.
Over the past few years, relations between the Roman and Ukrainian Catholic clergy in this part of the world have been growing, and opportunities to share our liturgies are rare moments to celebrate the diversity that is found in the Church even despite the many differences we also face (including for starters the particulars of the liturgies we celebrate, to say nothing of the languages that are used).
In a world where modern technology, communication tools and just plain apathy often drive individuals away from the traditional observances of faith, this little community is a fresh and vibrant sign to the city that faith, tradition and culture are indeed important to many.
We are thankful for the opportunity to partake in these Christmas celebrations, and look forward to the upcoming observance of the Theophany which will take place this year on January 18.
Perhaps best known among this group (at least to some of us in this part of the world) are Ukrainian Catholics. Thus it was that I was invited, along with a number of my confreres to attend the annual Christmas Eve liturgy celebrated at the local Ukrainian Catholic church.
The liturgy began at 8:00 pm tonight with the recitation of Compline (Night Prayer) and immediately followed by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom. This was not the first time that I was present for Christmas celebrations with our Ukrainian Catholic neighbours, but it was the first time that we (Roman clergy) were invited to partake by singing parts of the litanies.
Over the past few years, relations between the Roman and Ukrainian Catholic clergy in this part of the world have been growing, and opportunities to share our liturgies are rare moments to celebrate the diversity that is found in the Church even despite the many differences we also face (including for starters the particulars of the liturgies we celebrate, to say nothing of the languages that are used).
In a world where modern technology, communication tools and just plain apathy often drive individuals away from the traditional observances of faith, this little community is a fresh and vibrant sign to the city that faith, tradition and culture are indeed important to many.
We are thankful for the opportunity to partake in these Christmas celebrations, and look forward to the upcoming observance of the Theophany which will take place this year on January 18.
Before it's too late
Speaking of the value of love, have you ever noticed that life seems to fly by faster, the older we get? As children, we longed for the day when we could make decisions for ourselves, without having to always ask permission, but as adults, we strangely long for the days when we used to enjoy child-like innocence. Today's wisdom is truer than we'd like to admit:
Life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
Take time to cherish the moment, to thank those who are generous to you, to share love with the ones who love you, to smile and laugh with friends, to listen to someone who needs you, to make a difference in someone's life ... before it's too late.
Life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
Take time to cherish the moment, to thank those who are generous to you, to share love with the ones who love you, to smile and laugh with friends, to listen to someone who needs you, to make a difference in someone's life ... before it's too late.
Love is
As a very young child, I remember seeing a set of cartoons and figure drawings entitled 'Love is ...' Like today's newspaper comics, these were single frame pieces of wisdom which spoke of simple truths that help us to recognize and celebrate love in action.
If we were to write some of those today, they might come out like this:
If we were to write some of those today, they might come out like this:
- Love is holding a newborn child
- Love is sitting in a hospital and waiting for news about the one who is sick
- Love is recognizing that life is finite, and choosing to celebrate anyway
- Love is taking care of a grandchild so that her parents can tend to their own needs
- Love is speaking frankly with those who need to hear the truth
- Love is knowing you can always rely on another to stand by your side
- Love is allowing yourself to be held when you're in need
There are millions of permutations, and all of them are true. Love is a special gift that can only be freely given and must be freely accepted. Love is the thing that makes us feel unworthy and precious at the same time.
Who are the ones you love? Isn't it true that you would give anything if they asked, and if you had it to give? Who are the ones who love you? Why is it that we often don't give thanks for these often enough?
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Today's wisdom
Your wisdom for the day:
If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
How true.
If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
How true.
What a difference a day makes
For the past few years, the initial weeks of the calendar year always bring a certain level of anxt. Reason: the all powerful Ontario Ministry of Transportation requires annual vision exams and corresponding visual field reports to be filed so that some of us can keep our valid drivers' licences.
This is a new program that has been introduced just in the past five years or so, and of course the requirements are pretty stringent, but we comply as best we can. Thankfully, there are others who also understand how difficult it is to operate in a system which seems to have no face, and yet has all kinds of power to make decisions that affect us in ways we would never imagine.
A few weeks ago, I discovered that the date set as a deadline for submission of my annual vision report was only one day after the date of my vision field exam. Given the fact that these reports have to be sent to the Toronto office, time is of the essence when it comes to filing (especially when there is only a 24 hour lag between the appointment and the due date. There are many steps in the process, so even if the report is submitted by facsimile, it means that there is still a possiblity that it might be filed late, and this would risk other repercussions that I'd rather not contemplate.
Communication with the MTO a few weeks ago in an attempt to amend the due date seemed at first to be going well, but has proven fruitless to this point, so I decided to contact the ophthalmologist in order to determine what could be done about the situation. Answer, they moved my appointment up by almost a week, thus allowing me to finish the tests and submit them with days to spare.
These are pretty specialized tests and it takes two doctors to run them: both an optometrist and an ophthalmologist are involved. The coordination of these appointments is a feat because they all have to coincide with the due dates for the reports to be filed. Thankfully, both specialists try their best to make things as bearable as possible, and for this I am eternally grateful.
Once the report is submitted (as it has been today), it will take the MTO some 2-6 weeks to render a verdict about whether they grant me a vision waiver for the next year, thus extending my privilege to hold a valid driver's licence. Luckily, they provide the criteria ahead of time, so I have a good idea at the time of filing as to whether or not the report will be accepted. There's always the chance that their specialists will see something that mine didn't, so the waiting goes on. Hopefully it won't take too long to put an end to the waiting though.
This is a new program that has been introduced just in the past five years or so, and of course the requirements are pretty stringent, but we comply as best we can. Thankfully, there are others who also understand how difficult it is to operate in a system which seems to have no face, and yet has all kinds of power to make decisions that affect us in ways we would never imagine.
A few weeks ago, I discovered that the date set as a deadline for submission of my annual vision report was only one day after the date of my vision field exam. Given the fact that these reports have to be sent to the Toronto office, time is of the essence when it comes to filing (especially when there is only a 24 hour lag between the appointment and the due date. There are many steps in the process, so even if the report is submitted by facsimile, it means that there is still a possiblity that it might be filed late, and this would risk other repercussions that I'd rather not contemplate.
Communication with the MTO a few weeks ago in an attempt to amend the due date seemed at first to be going well, but has proven fruitless to this point, so I decided to contact the ophthalmologist in order to determine what could be done about the situation. Answer, they moved my appointment up by almost a week, thus allowing me to finish the tests and submit them with days to spare.
These are pretty specialized tests and it takes two doctors to run them: both an optometrist and an ophthalmologist are involved. The coordination of these appointments is a feat because they all have to coincide with the due dates for the reports to be filed. Thankfully, both specialists try their best to make things as bearable as possible, and for this I am eternally grateful.
Once the report is submitted (as it has been today), it will take the MTO some 2-6 weeks to render a verdict about whether they grant me a vision waiver for the next year, thus extending my privilege to hold a valid driver's licence. Luckily, they provide the criteria ahead of time, so I have a good idea at the time of filing as to whether or not the report will be accepted. There's always the chance that their specialists will see something that mine didn't, so the waiting goes on. Hopefully it won't take too long to put an end to the waiting though.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Returning the favour
One f the great blessings that is discovered more and more each day is the fact that no matter how much we give in life, there are always opportunities to receive ... much more than we can give.
This give and take can indeed be symbiotic (and often is) and we come to appreciate it more and more as we continue to give of ourselves in selfless service to those in need.
Sometimes the 'giving back' comes in the form of people's appreciation, voiced in words but more often in actions, and sometimes the 'receiving' comes from sources unexpected, and totally unrelated to those who receive acts of kindness, charity and love from our hands. Wherever the sources and aims of these acts are, the truth is that there is a kind of energy that is exchanged, a life-giving force that keeps us going, and which in the end can only result in us giving thanks.
To all those who give of themselves for the good of others, and to the One who shares with us the energy and blessing to do good, we should always be grateful.
This give and take can indeed be symbiotic (and often is) and we come to appreciate it more and more as we continue to give of ourselves in selfless service to those in need.
Sometimes the 'giving back' comes in the form of people's appreciation, voiced in words but more often in actions, and sometimes the 'receiving' comes from sources unexpected, and totally unrelated to those who receive acts of kindness, charity and love from our hands. Wherever the sources and aims of these acts are, the truth is that there is a kind of energy that is exchanged, a life-giving force that keeps us going, and which in the end can only result in us giving thanks.
To all those who give of themselves for the good of others, and to the One who shares with us the energy and blessing to do good, we should always be grateful.
When it counts
A funeral was held here today ... for one of the people who has been part of this faith community almost since the beginning. She was born three years after the parish was founded, and well before the construction of the building that we call home.
A celebration of her life, this was a time to remember and give thanks for all she did through the many years of her faithful life: service to God and to her country, service to others who were in need - especially patients in hospital with whom she visited and who she fed with the bread of life, and so many more ....
This was also a moment for the commuity of believers to be present to her family members, caring for them and helping them with our prayers and consolations. Her husband still serves the parish in many ways, and is a true example to the rest of us of dedication to faith and to self-giving. For the past six years, he has visited daily with his wife who was confined due to advancing illness, and yet he never lost sight of others in our community who were and are in need. With examples such as his, we indeed have in our midst the bright lights of mentors to show us the way to immitating Jesus himself in serving others out of love and motivated by compassion.
Today was also a day for me to spend time with these people of faith, getting to know some of them just a bit better, growing to appreciate their giftedness and sharing some significant moments. This is truly what ministering to them is about. This is the true meaning that Jesus came to teach us about walking with others in their time of need, about helping them to understand the fact that we are all created as an act of love by our God, and all meant to be one with Him.
When each of us meets again with the One who has created us, we can only hope that there are others who will walk the path with those we must leave behind, helping them to cope with the anguish of separation, and to know the abiding love that constantly invites us to the fullness of life.
A celebration of her life, this was a time to remember and give thanks for all she did through the many years of her faithful life: service to God and to her country, service to others who were in need - especially patients in hospital with whom she visited and who she fed with the bread of life, and so many more ....
This was also a moment for the commuity of believers to be present to her family members, caring for them and helping them with our prayers and consolations. Her husband still serves the parish in many ways, and is a true example to the rest of us of dedication to faith and to self-giving. For the past six years, he has visited daily with his wife who was confined due to advancing illness, and yet he never lost sight of others in our community who were and are in need. With examples such as his, we indeed have in our midst the bright lights of mentors to show us the way to immitating Jesus himself in serving others out of love and motivated by compassion.
Today was also a day for me to spend time with these people of faith, getting to know some of them just a bit better, growing to appreciate their giftedness and sharing some significant moments. This is truly what ministering to them is about. This is the true meaning that Jesus came to teach us about walking with others in their time of need, about helping them to understand the fact that we are all created as an act of love by our God, and all meant to be one with Him.
When each of us meets again with the One who has created us, we can only hope that there are others who will walk the path with those we must leave behind, helping them to cope with the anguish of separation, and to know the abiding love that constantly invites us to the fullness of life.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Rich man, poor man
Today, the liturgy directs our thoughts toward a very strange meeting indeed. On the one hand, Jesus, who has been born in humble surroundings, of parents who themselves have no exceptional means, but who is worthy of visits from those far above his stature in life. On the other, the wise men, people who would have had vast wealth, and influence, who came to pay him hommage.
This would indeed have been a very surprising and strange sight for Mary and Joseph, but it provides a foreshadow of his exaulted place in our hearts.
In today's reflection, provided by 'my humble assistant', the comparison was made between those of our generation who know Jesus (but don't necessarily have what it takes to recognize him in daily life), and those who see him in our actions, our meetings and our day to day life.
It's a really good read, fodder for our prayer and food for our souls.
This would indeed have been a very surprising and strange sight for Mary and Joseph, but it provides a foreshadow of his exaulted place in our hearts.
In today's reflection, provided by 'my humble assistant', the comparison was made between those of our generation who know Jesus (but don't necessarily have what it takes to recognize him in daily life), and those who see him in our actions, our meetings and our day to day life.
It's a really good read, fodder for our prayer and food for our souls.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Money matters
A word from the wise for those of us who try to make sense of matters in lfe:
Saturday January 2, and Sunday January 3, 2010
A lot of money is tainted: it 'tain't yours, and it 'tain't mine.
May this witticism bring you some modicum of comfort today ... and tomorrow.
Saturday January 2, and Sunday January 3, 2010
A lot of money is tainted: it 'tain't yours, and it 'tain't mine.
May this witticism bring you some modicum of comfort today ... and tomorrow.
Once more from the top
Call me crazy. The ambent temperature this morning (at 9:30 am) was a pleasant -27 degrees centigrade. Add to that a windchill factor that made it feel more like -37 degrees. Anyone in their right mind was indoors, perhaps clutching a steaming cup of java or (insert here your beverage of chioce), but not me.
Instead, I was standing at the intersection of two downtown streets, bundled beneath a goose down coat, wearing double insulated gloves and a fur-lined hat. Why, you may ask? The reason's simple.
Most people across this fair land of ours can have one glimpse of the Olympic torch as the relay travels through various towns, villages and other establishments on its way to Vancouver for the start of the 2010 Olympics next month. Not me. I'm one of the (ehem) lucky ones who gets two such opportunities. The first was described in an epistle penned last week, and the second was today. The torch had finally made its way to the city of Greater Sudbury, and before heading west toward Sault Ste. Marie, it made a brief stop here for a party which included a pancake breakfast at city hall and a variety of other activties.
Celebrities and ordinary folk all get their chance to touch the torch (which is actually a whole series of torches being lit one at a time as the flame travels), and to play a small part in creating history. There's a strange feeling of something much bigger than me that's going on. As the torch approached along Elm Steet, and then passed by, there was cheering and calls of encouragemnt for the athletes who will don their uniforms in just a few weeks' time. There was also a moment or two of emotion and an inner sense that something wonderful is happening right before our eyes.
Across the country, stories are being told and examples shared of communities coming together (even just for a moment) to celebrate amid the winter chill as the warmth of a flickering flame unites us all. Perhaps we can't all be physically present in Vancouver, but we can all be present and conscious of the fact that this flickering flame, which began its travel on Mount Olympus is the same flame that flickers from the torch being proudly carried by so many ordinary citizens of this fair country. This flame will eventually light the cauldron which will burn for the entire period of the Games, and stand as sentinel over the place where human athletic excellence will combine with international ambassadors who bring the best of who they are to the spirit of friendly competition.
Some moments like this have the power to change us because they allow us to appreciate the fact that our world is indeed a vast place, but it's also very small. We all have our differences, but these can be put aside from time to time in order to leave room for gestures of peace and goodwill. In this case, it all begins with a flickering flame.
Instead, I was standing at the intersection of two downtown streets, bundled beneath a goose down coat, wearing double insulated gloves and a fur-lined hat. Why, you may ask? The reason's simple.
Most people across this fair land of ours can have one glimpse of the Olympic torch as the relay travels through various towns, villages and other establishments on its way to Vancouver for the start of the 2010 Olympics next month. Not me. I'm one of the (ehem) lucky ones who gets two such opportunities. The first was described in an epistle penned last week, and the second was today. The torch had finally made its way to the city of Greater Sudbury, and before heading west toward Sault Ste. Marie, it made a brief stop here for a party which included a pancake breakfast at city hall and a variety of other activties.
Celebrities and ordinary folk all get their chance to touch the torch (which is actually a whole series of torches being lit one at a time as the flame travels), and to play a small part in creating history. There's a strange feeling of something much bigger than me that's going on. As the torch approached along Elm Steet, and then passed by, there was cheering and calls of encouragemnt for the athletes who will don their uniforms in just a few weeks' time. There was also a moment or two of emotion and an inner sense that something wonderful is happening right before our eyes.
Across the country, stories are being told and examples shared of communities coming together (even just for a moment) to celebrate amid the winter chill as the warmth of a flickering flame unites us all. Perhaps we can't all be physically present in Vancouver, but we can all be present and conscious of the fact that this flickering flame, which began its travel on Mount Olympus is the same flame that flickers from the torch being proudly carried by so many ordinary citizens of this fair country. This flame will eventually light the cauldron which will burn for the entire period of the Games, and stand as sentinel over the place where human athletic excellence will combine with international ambassadors who bring the best of who they are to the spirit of friendly competition.
Some moments like this have the power to change us because they allow us to appreciate the fact that our world is indeed a vast place, but it's also very small. We all have our differences, but these can be put aside from time to time in order to leave room for gestures of peace and goodwill. In this case, it all begins with a flickering flame.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Signs
Some of us spend our lives trying to help others, but every once in awhile even we realize that others too care for our needs in little and not so little ways.
Evidence of this truth arrived today, unexpectedly of course, by means of a person who knocked at the door. In his hands he was bearing a gift, a little token of gratitude for prayers and acts of charity bestowed over the past months toward him and his family. As it turns out, enclosed was a little calendar of reflections 'to help you on your way'.
These sayings are indeed meant to help us, all of us, on our way. Every day it helps to realize the little ways that God calls us to love one another ... so ... here's the first installment:
Friday, January 1
God gave you two hands, one to help yourself, one to help others.
We can often get caught up either in our concern with helping ourselves (which at its worst can lead to narcicism and at best is aimed at convincing others of our personal behavioural assets), or with helping others (based out of love or out of a thirst to be noticed). In truth, the secret of this particular phrase is to realize that balance is the most important: being concerned for others but also keeping an eye out for ourselves, so that we won't burn out and not be able to help anyone.
Evidence of this truth arrived today, unexpectedly of course, by means of a person who knocked at the door. In his hands he was bearing a gift, a little token of gratitude for prayers and acts of charity bestowed over the past months toward him and his family. As it turns out, enclosed was a little calendar of reflections 'to help you on your way'.
These sayings are indeed meant to help us, all of us, on our way. Every day it helps to realize the little ways that God calls us to love one another ... so ... here's the first installment:
Friday, January 1
God gave you two hands, one to help yourself, one to help others.
We can often get caught up either in our concern with helping ourselves (which at its worst can lead to narcicism and at best is aimed at convincing others of our personal behavioural assets), or with helping others (based out of love or out of a thirst to be noticed). In truth, the secret of this particular phrase is to realize that balance is the most important: being concerned for others but also keeping an eye out for ourselves, so that we won't burn out and not be able to help anyone.
Standing still
At moments such as these, when we bid farewell to the year that was and look forward to a year that lies ahead, it is appropriate that we take a moment to evaluate where we've been, where we're headed and where we are.
Some of us have or will soon adopt resolutions which we hope to use as benchmarks to signify changes that we'd like to effect, and others of us look for guidance as we consider ways to better some part of ourselves.
In the reflection offered to those who came to celebrate the Solemnity of the Mother of God today, I dared to dream that perhaps, just perhaps Mary can be of some assistance. Want to know more? Listen to the homily or read the text, then consider for yourself whether there is some habit that needs to be amended, some word that needs to be uttered, some luxury that can be done without, some way to change that will make us more aware of our call to serve others in need ... for we are all on this road together, making our way one day, one act, one word at a time.
Some of us have or will soon adopt resolutions which we hope to use as benchmarks to signify changes that we'd like to effect, and others of us look for guidance as we consider ways to better some part of ourselves.
In the reflection offered to those who came to celebrate the Solemnity of the Mother of God today, I dared to dream that perhaps, just perhaps Mary can be of some assistance. Want to know more? Listen to the homily or read the text, then consider for yourself whether there is some habit that needs to be amended, some word that needs to be uttered, some luxury that can be done without, some way to change that will make us more aware of our call to serve others in need ... for we are all on this road together, making our way one day, one act, one word at a time.
Happy New Year
After the reverie of ringing in the New Year, today will be spent in various ways, with any of a number of traditions. For some there will be a levy, perhaps hosted by the mayor of the city, or by some other promenent personality. If you're invited to such a soirée, go ... enjoy, meet new people, and wish them health, prosperity and all things good for 2010.
Greetings are being broadcast today from the Prime Minister of the country, from the Governor General, and other civic authorities. In Rome, the focus today is on the World Day for Peace. In addition to his homily spoken during the Mass today, and his traditional Angelus greeting, the Holy Father has published a printed text specifically focused on the value of protecting creation as a concrete sign of our commitment to promoting peace.
As we bid farewell to the decade that was, let us look forward in hope toward that which will be. January 1 is the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, a day of obligation in many parts of the world, a time for looking to the Mother of Jesus who is our example of discipleship. May she protect us throughout the coming year, and help us to grow ever closer to the heart of her Son.
Greetings are being broadcast today from the Prime Minister of the country, from the Governor General, and other civic authorities. In Rome, the focus today is on the World Day for Peace. In addition to his homily spoken during the Mass today, and his traditional Angelus greeting, the Holy Father has published a printed text specifically focused on the value of protecting creation as a concrete sign of our commitment to promoting peace.
As we bid farewell to the decade that was, let us look forward in hope toward that which will be. January 1 is the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, a day of obligation in many parts of the world, a time for looking to the Mother of Jesus who is our example of discipleship. May she protect us throughout the coming year, and help us to grow ever closer to the heart of her Son.