You are either at Mass or streaming… each is a good choice for keeping a strong mind and heart in today’s world; however, in person is the most desired. In our world which is shaken by wars, hunger, violence, and a growing disregard for human life, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or even numb, as the headlines change daily, but the suffering seems constant.

In the midst of this chaos, we come to Mass, not as an escape, but as a return to the one thing that will never change – God. God does not shift with the times or bend to political or social trends. His love, justice, and mercy are constant. His word still speaks truth. His message still calls us to compassion, forgiveness, courage, and hope. Jesus Christ remains the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). In this truth, we find our anchor. Coming to Mass each week helps us to remember who we are and whose we are. It is not just a ritual, it is a re-centering of our hearts and minds. We listen again to the Gospel that calls us to love when the world tells us to fear, to forgive when the world pushes us to revenge, to serve when the world says to take.

So what should we remember? Though the world may change, drastically and often painfully – GOD DOES NOT END. And what should we pay attention to? The quiet voice of the spirit urging us to be agents of peace, to care for the poor, to defend life in all its stages, and to remain faithful even when it is difficult. Saint Teresa of Avila once said, “Christ has no body now but yours… Yours are the eyes with which He looks with compassion on the world.”

Keep showing up for Mass. Keep praying. Keep loving. That’s how we live out the presence of God which never changes in the world around us. This week, let’s each try to commit to one act of compassion; to visit someone who is lonely, check in on a neighbor or friend, reach out to someone struggling, or volunteer in some way. That’s how we can live out His presence that never changes in a world that desperately needs more mercy, care, and love made visible.

With you a Christian. For you a priest.

Father Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish

Please pray for the peace and rest of the soul of Connie Rakitan who was a member of our unified Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy and Saint Giles Staff. Connie died last Saturday.

Forty years ago, Connie help to start our Faith and Fellowship ministry out of the Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy Rectory and Church. She loved and cared deeply for folks with emotional challenges. They became partners with volunteers who helped them see God in simple formation and social programs created especially for these friends. God called Connie home after a short illness and the gradual decline of her mind, body and spirit. May she find the eternal rest and the peace she deserves, and know and take delight in hearing God’s greeting to her… well done, good and faithful servant.