The end of the world ... again?

     Last Saturday there was the prediction of the end of the world.  It did not come to be.  Many joked about it, some were concerned, and still others, I'm sure, panicked.  Today seems as if those predictions are surfacing again, this time in our local Catholic School family.  I just received a series of emails to and among the Board of Trust Administrators (the pastors) regarding dissatisfaction, concerns, and mutiny among the ranks of the school families.  There are some who want to or are threatening to "abandon ship".  There are several issues that must be addressed, and will be addressed.  There are several challenges to the program that fall into this category as well.  But now, at the end of the term, they are surfacing and attention is being demanded.

     I am not getting into those issues in this forum, but I mention them because some of the school community may be reading.

     As disciples of Christ, as Church, we are called to be united in our Faith, to place our trust in the redeeming power of God, and to stand by each other in order that the problems of this world and the sin of our lives may be dispelled by the light which is Christ.  In the Acts of the Apostles this morning (Acts 14:19-28) Paul and Barnabas found themselves put upon and persecuted, rejected and left for dead.  It was only through the support and prayers, the encouragement and trust of the disciples that Paul got to his feet and Barnabas had the courage to tackle the problems.  It was their unity, their oneness of purpose, their Faith that got them through the worst.  They did not leave Paul and Barnabas alone to solve the problem, but rather, with one mind and heart, with love and courage, they faced the hurdles together.

     As we are reminded of this experience of the early Church, and as we face our own demons, let us not be afraid to stand together to create a better world.  I pray that our school family will see the wisdom of doing just that.  For those not of that community, say an extra one for us.  What we have is good - better than good.  The problems can be dealt with.  Patience, civility, pride and love are the ingredients necessary for resolution.