Build one another up

     There is a good word found in the first reading for today's Mass, which comes from the first letter of Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thes 5: 1-6; 9-11).  In the letter Paul reminds this community that they have been given the light which is Christ, when he was preached to them.  Because of this, they do not need to fret or panic when things get tough, or when the false peace and security that we so often buy into begins to dissolve.  They, and we, are children of the light and of the day.  We have been destined to gain salvation through Christ and our unity in him rather than be destined for wrath and darkness.  Paul says: "Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up".

     There is so much  negative and destructive behavior in our lives, whether we are on the giving or receiving end, that Paul's words need to be heeded.  All too often we feel isolated and alone.  One of our priests was in the news recently in a controversy with some parishioners and their accusations, and he too feels abandoned by everyone.  Forty years of priestly service seems to count for nothing as he is placed in limbo.  I sent him a note and am keeping him in prayer.  But even that is rare among priests.

     I try to be positive in these posts.  There are things that need to be spoken about in a less than flattering way, sometimes, but I will try to keep them few and far between.  The reason is simple ... we are children of the Light, and the darkness that is enveloping the world needs that light brought to it.  We need to encourage one another.  The Thessalonians could do it, and so can we.

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     With Labor Day approaching, the U.S. Catholic Bishops issues a statement (which all too few read).  This year's statement was written by Bishop Stephen Blaire of Stockton, California, the chair of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development.  It is entitled "Human Costs and Moral Challenges of a Broken Economy".  I will share some quotes in the next few days, but if you want to read the entire letter, it can be found on the USCCB website at www.usccb.org/news/2011/11-165.cfm.