Message from our Pastor
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
November 17, 2024
The talk of the end of time often brings some trembling to people. However, remember that these words from our scriptures are often addressed to those who are under duress. These are the people who have and continue to experience trials that bring thoughts that the end of time is near. Jesus uses vivid language to describe what should be expected. “The sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.”
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This apocalyptic description, I am sure, placed his closest disciples on the back of their heels. I am sure they were trying to figure out what these words would mean to them. Why was he speaking like this? What happens next in the scriptures is Jesus’ journey to the cross. Could it be Jesus’ vivid imagery of the end times is a preparation for them to realize what is about to happen to him? Remember that the apostles have left everything to follow Jesus and now he is only steps away from his impending death. They did not expect this to happen.
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He even tells his disciples to hold on to these words as eventually all will make sense. He declares at the end of the gospel, “that heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” There will be a complete transformation of what we know as the living universe. This whole process, if you will, begins with Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross and his resurrection. However, this is entirely in the hands of the Father. “But of the day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” In the meantime, the apostles will hold on to the words that come from Jesus’ mouth.
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The tabernacle in the sanctuary has certainly brought many comments. I am seeking permission from the Bishop to have the tabernacle present in the sanctuary permanently. We have had several occasions at night with tampering of hosts and with the chapel itself. Consequently, the chapel will be locked at the end of each day and after the last liturgical event on Sunday afternoon.
The tabernacle in the sanctuary has certainly brought many comments. I am seeking permission from the Bishop to have the tabernacle present in the sanctuary permanently. We have had several occasions at night with tampering of hosts and with the chapel itself. Consequently, the chapel will be locked at the end of each day and after the last liturgical event on Sunday afternoon.
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Our Service Day last Saturday was a great event. We had over two hundred and fifteen people who participated. I am grateful to all of you for your willingness to be involved in this activity. I spent the morning at
Our Service Day last Saturday was a great event. We had over two hundred and fifteen people who participated. I am grateful to all of you for your willingness to be involved in this activity. I spent the morning at
Warehouse of Hope on Lakeland Boulevard in Eastlake. We had close to twenty people who helped lift, sort out, and move all sorts of furniture, glassware, household items and much more. I was worn out after our two-and-a-half-hour stint. From what I have heard everyone had a good time at the twenty different sites. Just know that your time and effort has made a difference.
I am looking forward to a few days away from the parish this week. It has been a grind the last few weeks with many liturgical events, meetings and appointments. I am hoping that my time away will re-energize me. Time away for relaxation and reflection is always good for the soul.
If you are wondering what we will do with the chapel area. I have some ideas but will be meeting with our Art and Environment Committee to formalize some plans. In the meantime, the carpeting has been replaced along with the shelving above the air intake. The walls to the ceiling have been painted. One comment I often receive from visitors is about the cleanliness of our church.
With the tabernacle in the sanctuary, the proper gesture before entering and leaving your pew is to genuflect to the tabernacle. If for some reason you cannot bend your knee to the floor, please make a solemn bow to the tabernacle.
We continue our journey through these last weeks of Ordinary Time. Next Sunday, we will celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. At eleven o’clock Mass we will have the Rite of Acceptance of those who are participating in our O.C.I.A. process. Please pray for those who are coming into our church to be baptized and our candidates for full communion into the Church.
This is plenty of information for the week. Enjoy the brisk fall days. Keep the faith and know of my prayers for you each day
