As I celebrate Masses at each of our churches, I am continually inspired by many of our seniors across the parishes whose lives reflect both wisdom and vitality. Their quiet strength, deep faith, and joyful spirit reveal something beautiful about what it means to grow older with grace.

Last week outside of church, I had a conversation with one such parishioner, a woman who faithfully reads my articles and shared with me they have been meaningful to her. I then mentioned that if she had any ideas for my “corners” to please let me know, as now and then it can be a challenge to think of what to write. Without hesitation she said, “why not write about what keeps our minds and hearts young?”

Her suggestion struck me as both simple and profound. What keeps us young, I believe, is not denying age but embracing it as a gift. It is curiosity that keeps the mind open, gratitude that keeps the heart tender, and faith that keeps the spirit hopeful.

Perhaps, one way to keep young in spirit is to find one thing each day that stirs gratitude or joy – a moment of beauty, a kind word, a simple prayer – and to let that become a reminder of God’s presence within us.

Our seniors remind us daily that joy and purpose do not fade with time. Their example teaches us that a heart rooted in love and trust in God never truly grows old.

God shows up in unexpected ways to guide and encourage me. This encounter outside of church was one such experience.

Let me offer this prayer for our daily reflection:

Loving God, renew in us each day a grateful heart, an open mind, and a spirit alive with hope. Help us to see Your presence in every season of life and to share the joy of Your love with all we meet. Amen!

With you a Christian. For you, a priest.

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

ASCENSION AND ST. EDMUND PARISH - Please say a prayer for Fr. Rex's safe travel home to visit his mother. The trip to Sri Lanka is quite a long one. He will be away until November 20. Father Bob and I along with a couple of visiting priests will celebrate Mass while he is away.