Both the world and our country are filled with heartbreaking news about hate and violence against innocent and defenseless children and families. Many of us may feel, how do we connect with God in all this mess?

Recently I am reminded of the saying “let go, let God.” This reminds us that as people of faith we must move beyond our control and surrender our will to God. A "let God” life rejects a me centered life. A “let God” life surrenders control to God. In this context self-denial means trusting God’s will over our own plans, ambitions and comfort. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "In all ways acknowledge God, and He will make straight your paths.”

A “let God” life loves others sacrificially. This contrasts with a self-focused world that tells us to prioritize our own happiness. Jesus calls us to love even when it is inconvenient, costly or difficult. It can mean forgiving someone who is meaner than a nest of wasps. A “let God’ life resists cultural pressures. Conventional thinking often dismisses absolute truth and promotes moral relativism. Self-denial means standing firm in biblical truth, even when it is unpopular.

Finally, a “let God’ life includes a daily dying to self. Self-denial isn’t just one big moment of sacrifice. It is a daily commitment. It means saying no to pride, selfishness, laziness or the desire for recognition.

Wearing a cross is easy. Living the cross is costly. The cross is not an accessory. It is a way of life that calls us to humility, sacrifice and unwavering faithfulness to Christ. Our readings this weekend reminds us of this truth. By living by this truth, we combat the heartbreak in our country and in the world with the hope that, despite the crosses we carry or face, God is living and acting in and through us.

I offer this prayer for the week as you reflect on where you need to “let go, let God.”

Lord, open for me your love. Open for me your presence so that I may find courage for my fear, Open to me your presence so that there may be light for my darkness. Open to me your spirit so that I may know your peace amidst turmoil. Open me up to you, O God, so that I may know hope for my despair, peace for my soul, joy for my sorrow, health for my illness, strength for my weakness, wisdom for my confusion, forgiveness for my sin, love for my hate, praise for my doubt and insights for my troubles. Lord, open for me your cross and your love for my life, for my all. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

On Monday, September 8th, both parish councils will meet in McDonough Hall for a conversation about some common goals that the staff would like to share with them as we look toward the fall season and the new year ahead. While we are two councils serving the needs of our individual parishes, there are some things we would like to work on in common. For example, a discernment program for ministry and other parish leadership considerations, such as the financial council and the parish council. Sharing resources and formation is something we can work on together. We also will be looking at common goals like communication. More information will be shared after our meeting.

Have a safe and blessed week ahead.

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