I hope that we were all attentive to the words and spirit of the prayer of the celebrant at Mass today as the Collect the prayer on our behalf ... "Almighty and merciful God, may no earthly undertaking hinder those who set out in haste to meet your Son ... " was offered to the Father. There needs to be a growing sense of urgency to our desire for God and our involvement in his life giving body. That urgency does not flow from fear, but rather from the growing uncertainties of life around us and the growing awareness that the answer must be found in something outside of ourselves. If, as we know, there is a Higher Power, a Transcendant God, a merciful Savior then he must hold the answer. And if, as we know, that same God is intimately connected to our lives by a deep and abiding love, then we must with all of our hearts and minds, all of our efforts, seek to know him, and to love him, and to serve him. And not tomorrow, or when I am better prepared, or if the circumstances are appropriate ... but NOW!
The Scriptures today reminded us that in ancient times as well as today, when someone of great importance announced a visit every effort was made by the entire place to "prepare the way". The winding way was made straight, the hills leveled and the valleys filled in, the road paved and made smooth. Homes were readied, food was prepared and hearts were made ready with great anticipation. Even today if I want something, if the desired dream vacation is planned, if something important in my life is pending, I will do all in my power to make sure that it happens. Nothing will stand in the way. And these are things that pass away, things that are transitory. There should be nothing hindering us from our journey toward Christ. That is what ADVENT is about - our "ad venio", our "coming toward" Him who is the source of all, the Lord of life. Let nothing hinder our journey or lessen our desire.
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This was a weekend of great liturgies. On Saturday evening our regional Senior Youth Ministry ministered in our parish at the 4:00 pm Mass, serving in various liturgical capacities and assisting with lively music. This is a part of their monthly Teen Hope Mass as they visit the three area parishes that form the regional youth efforts. It was great.
This morning at 8:30 am we were blessed with our Adult Choir (who usually sings at 11) and at the 11:00 am Mass we had our Young Voices Choir (the youth choir). Both the Adult and Young Voices were accompanied by organ, keyboard, flute, trumpet, guitar, percussion, and at the 11am a violin. Awesome. We are so blessed. Kudos to Marion Siebert our Director of Music and Diana Mikash, Director of Young Voices and so much more.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Saturday, December 8, 2012
An Advocate of Grace
In the history of our young diocese (Greensburg, Pennsylvania) December the 8th holds a very special day of remembrance. It was on this date in 1959 that our first bishop, Hugh L. Lamb, died after leading us for a little less than ten years. He had come to us from Philadelphia and took a fledgling local church that had been a part of Pittsburgh and formed a new diocese. I remember hearing of his death from my grandma Lenard in her backyard that day after she heard of his death on the radio. I had met him once, at my Confirmation, but knew little of the man. There was sadness nonetheless. Say a prayer for him today.
Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Confusing to some, this is a feast about Mary and her mom and dad, by tradition known as Joachim and Anne. Her conception was rooted in the love of this man and woman for each other. Her birth brought great rejoicing to two people of faith and their families. Her childhood was rooted in being a daughter of Abraham, being attentive to the teaching, word and promise of her people, and being obedient to the will of God.
But then that day came when Gabriel appeared to her and announced Good News. He acknowledged that she was "Full of grace" and that "the Lord was with her". Her life of quiet holiness, her resistance to the temptations of life to sin, her unqualified trust in God suddenly began to make sense. The Lord was with her, and she was full of grace.
Later the Church would honor that gift given to her from the moment of her conception, the gift that would become a part of our life from the moment of our baptism - a freedom from sin and the inherent weakness which it brings into our human existence, and a realization that we are called to be holy and, in fact, have been graced to live a holy life. She did not live in a protective bubble that shielded her from temptation, but rather knew that her God had empowered her to resist that temptation and live in his love. The Preface for this feast says that "you placed her above all others to be for your people an advocate of grace and a model of holiness." She, who gave form and life to the One who would set all people free of sin and death, would be free of the effects of that original sin and death, and would choose to live in holiness of life. She stands as a great advocate of grace and a true model of holiness. And she is our Mother in Faith.
Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Confusing to some, this is a feast about Mary and her mom and dad, by tradition known as Joachim and Anne. Her conception was rooted in the love of this man and woman for each other. Her birth brought great rejoicing to two people of faith and their families. Her childhood was rooted in being a daughter of Abraham, being attentive to the teaching, word and promise of her people, and being obedient to the will of God.
But then that day came when Gabriel appeared to her and announced Good News. He acknowledged that she was "Full of grace" and that "the Lord was with her". Her life of quiet holiness, her resistance to the temptations of life to sin, her unqualified trust in God suddenly began to make sense. The Lord was with her, and she was full of grace.
Later the Church would honor that gift given to her from the moment of her conception, the gift that would become a part of our life from the moment of our baptism - a freedom from sin and the inherent weakness which it brings into our human existence, and a realization that we are called to be holy and, in fact, have been graced to live a holy life. She did not live in a protective bubble that shielded her from temptation, but rather knew that her God had empowered her to resist that temptation and live in his love. The Preface for this feast says that "you placed her above all others to be for your people an advocate of grace and a model of holiness." She, who gave form and life to the One who would set all people free of sin and death, would be free of the effects of that original sin and death, and would choose to live in holiness of life. She stands as a great advocate of grace and a true model of holiness. And she is our Mother in Faith.
****************************
If you have ever watch "The O'Riley Factor" on the Fox network, he often would at the end of a broadcast give a "word of the day". I have found our "word of the day" in the Prayer Over the Offerings in today's liturgy. The word is "PREVENIENT". The prayer speaks of the prevenient grace given to Mary. My Latin may be rusty, but "venio" means "to come" and "pre" means "before", thus it should mean the grace given Mary even before the coming of Jesus. Not your every day English word.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Stepping aside
Yesterday, the Feast of Saint Nicholas, saw nearly forty of our priests along with Bishop Brandt step aside from the normal activities of the day to spend an afternoon in prayer and reflection. This Advent Day of Reflection was given by a dynamic preacher, nationally and internationally known speaker Father Larry Richards of the Diocese of Erie, and was held at the Bishop William G. Connare Center, our diocesan Retreat facility. It was a great opportunity as priests to pause and reflect.
Much of what Father Larry Richards presented was an encouragement to look at our ministry as priests from the starting point of Jesus' ministry - at his baptism by John. Father Richards pointed out that in one of the gospel accounts, when John had baptized Jesus, the Spirit came upon him and the Father spoke and said "You are my beloved son, with you I am well pleased." At our baptism the Father says the same thing - "you are my beloved ... I am well pleased". With that in mind, we begin our journey and enter into the ministry entrusted to us to share the Good News. Unworthy though we are, caught up in the failure that sin makes present, we are affirmed with the reality that "We are his beloved" ... "We are the beloved disciple" ... and he rejoices in us.
As priests, the gift of Orders begins our public ministry. If we embark upon that ministry with those words of the Father echoing in our minds and hearts, then we begin on a solid and sure footing. Then, when the inevitable challenge confronts us, we find the strength to transform it into something redemptive. And when we find success and experience fulfillment, for they, too, will come, we know where our blessings come from. It was a helpful message.
We began the day with Mid-Day Prayer, a conference followed by a break, then to chapel for Eucharistic Adoration, an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation (with gratitude to monks from Saint Vincent Archabbey who served as confessors), a wrap up session, Evening Prayer and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. We closed the day with a social and a good meal prepared by the staff of the Bishop Connare Center.
It was refreshing, I was blessed, and Advent and ministry take on a clearer focus.
Much of what Father Larry Richards presented was an encouragement to look at our ministry as priests from the starting point of Jesus' ministry - at his baptism by John. Father Richards pointed out that in one of the gospel accounts, when John had baptized Jesus, the Spirit came upon him and the Father spoke and said "You are my beloved son, with you I am well pleased." At our baptism the Father says the same thing - "you are my beloved ... I am well pleased". With that in mind, we begin our journey and enter into the ministry entrusted to us to share the Good News. Unworthy though we are, caught up in the failure that sin makes present, we are affirmed with the reality that "We are his beloved" ... "We are the beloved disciple" ... and he rejoices in us.
As priests, the gift of Orders begins our public ministry. If we embark upon that ministry with those words of the Father echoing in our minds and hearts, then we begin on a solid and sure footing. Then, when the inevitable challenge confronts us, we find the strength to transform it into something redemptive. And when we find success and experience fulfillment, for they, too, will come, we know where our blessings come from. It was a helpful message.
We began the day with Mid-Day Prayer, a conference followed by a break, then to chapel for Eucharistic Adoration, an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation (with gratitude to monks from Saint Vincent Archabbey who served as confessors), a wrap up session, Evening Prayer and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. We closed the day with a social and a good meal prepared by the staff of the Bishop Connare Center.
It was refreshing, I was blessed, and Advent and ministry take on a clearer focus.
Influencing Others
Today is the feast of Saint Ambrose, the bishop of Milan in the mid 300's. Ambrose was a scholar, is considered a Doctor of the Church, defended the Church against heresy and accomplished many great things. He influenced countless people, one of which was a young man by the name of Augustine, who later went on to become bishop of Hippo and a great saint of the Church.
Ambrose was not out to snare or impress Augustine. He was simply preaching the gospel message with the strength and conviction that was in his heart. He allowed the Spirit to move within him and to use him in his pastoral duties. He simply shared his love of Christ with anyone who would listen to his words or accept his example.
Augustine was not one "looking to be snared or impressed" either. In fact, Augustine was a pagan in reality (never baptized) as well as in heart (no desire for God or the things of God). Augustine led a wild and wicked life, and despite his learning was less than open to the message of the gospel. Then he heard Ambrose preaching while passing through Milan. With the Spirit at work in Ambrose and in Augustine, a connection took place that set Augustine on a course that would lead to his coming to know and to embrace Jesus Christ, accepting the waters of Baptism, and transforming his life.
The story of Ambrose and Augustine is a great story of influence and inspiration that can take place as we "live the gospel of Jesus Christ".
It reminds me of another person of influence - Francis of Assisi - who in his newly adopted lifestyle of embracing Lady Poverty and gospel direction, influenced many to follow him. He also, in his preaching in the town square, attracted and influenced a young woman named Clare to leave family and friends and dedicate her life to Christ. There is a tradition (true or not?) that Francis at some point said to his friars that they were to preach the Gospel ... and to use words if necessary. Whether it is by word or example, living the Faith, proclaiming the Lordship of Jesus Christ, bringing Christ to others by being Christ for others, is our task. Influencing others is the wonderful result of fulfilling that task.
Ambrose was not out to snare or impress Augustine. He was simply preaching the gospel message with the strength and conviction that was in his heart. He allowed the Spirit to move within him and to use him in his pastoral duties. He simply shared his love of Christ with anyone who would listen to his words or accept his example.
Augustine was not one "looking to be snared or impressed" either. In fact, Augustine was a pagan in reality (never baptized) as well as in heart (no desire for God or the things of God). Augustine led a wild and wicked life, and despite his learning was less than open to the message of the gospel. Then he heard Ambrose preaching while passing through Milan. With the Spirit at work in Ambrose and in Augustine, a connection took place that set Augustine on a course that would lead to his coming to know and to embrace Jesus Christ, accepting the waters of Baptism, and transforming his life.
The story of Ambrose and Augustine is a great story of influence and inspiration that can take place as we "live the gospel of Jesus Christ".
It reminds me of another person of influence - Francis of Assisi - who in his newly adopted lifestyle of embracing Lady Poverty and gospel direction, influenced many to follow him. He also, in his preaching in the town square, attracted and influenced a young woman named Clare to leave family and friends and dedicate her life to Christ. There is a tradition (true or not?) that Francis at some point said to his friars that they were to preach the Gospel ... and to use words if necessary. Whether it is by word or example, living the Faith, proclaiming the Lordship of Jesus Christ, bringing Christ to others by being Christ for others, is our task. Influencing others is the wonderful result of fulfilling that task.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Various Things
I recently saw an advertisement for a plaque that contained some sage advice, especially in the hectic season that we find ourselves in prior to Christmas. Things are so busy, there is so much to do, the level of activity reaches epic proportions as we attempt to "get ready". As I get older I have learned to appreciate the gift of the Season of Advent that the Church in her wisdom places before us. It is a time of preparation that is not activity centered, but rather one of quiet, attentive awaiting - a time of giving thanks for the gift of the historical Jesus and the events that took place in Bethlehem so long ago - the Incarnation, God-with-us. It is a time of giving thanks for the presence of Christ in our hearts and lives at this moment of our existence, with the challenges of keeping that relationship fresh and alive. But it is primarily a time of reflecting upon the fact that we believe that he "will come again", the he will draw us into his heart and bring us before the Father of Creation at the end of time.
Getting back to the ad, it said:
Getting back to the ad, it said:
LISTEN & SILENT
have the same letters.
Coincidence?
This period of awaiting, of anticipation, of listening requires of us not the hustle and bustle that others place upon the season, but rather the SILENCE that will allow us to truly LISTEN. Talk about being counter-cultural! And yet it is the best advice that I have heard for a long time. Take time during Advent to be SILENT and LISTEN.
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Yesterday on EWTN I watched the Installation Mass of Archbishop Joseph Tobin of Indianapolis, Indiana. I love watching these ordination/installation Masses when they occur, to see the Church at work. I was impressed with yesterday's ceremony: the Cathedral there seems massive (and it was filled) ... the music was great, plentiful and embraced by all present ... the ceremonies went off smoothly (which is not always the case) ... but most importantly, I was impressed with the new Archbishop, with his warmth, charm, prayerful style, and preaching. He spoke from the heart and not from a prepared text, which to me speaks volumes. He had his audience, and he had me. Blessing to the Church in Indianapolis.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
And did you see that the Pope as of yesterday has a Twitter account. I am in total ignorance of "Twitter", but I give the Vatican credit for reaching out in the social media. Rocco, in "Whispers" has a good post on this along with the Holy Father's Twitter address. Check it out.
Monday, December 3, 2012
A Local Advent Tradition
Last evening I attended a local gathering of the priests and deacons from our diocese. This gathering is sort of a "new year's" party to welcome the new Church year on the First Sunday of Advent. The tradition began in this diocese many years ago with Monsignor Sam Conway hosting the gatherings, succeeded by Father Mike Sikon for a number of years and last evening Father Rick Kosisko taking up torch. It is billed as an "Ordo Burning Party". The Ordo is a small book published each year that gives the order of prayer in the liturgy of the hours and the celebration of the Eucharist for each year. In case you thought we priests were so smart that we knew everything, this book tells us what feasts to celebrate when, where the prayers are to be found, the readings, etc. They are handy little things, but they change yearly. So, even though it is just an excuse to gather, we bring our Ordo books and with a prayer and semi-official ritual, burn them outside in the back yard of the rectory. Then we party.
There was a second reason for the gathering, and that was a friendly celebration of the recent retirement of Monsignor Ed McCullough of our diocese. Ed is well known and well liked by the men, and this was in part in his honor as well.
Last night's gathering saw at least twenty-five of the men gather for great food, drink, fellowship, and a Steeler win over the Ravens. It was relaxed and very informal. Bishop Brandt joined in the festivities as did a number of our new priests from the Philippines. It is a great tradition, and we are grateful to Rick for hosting us last night.
There was a second reason for the gathering, and that was a friendly celebration of the recent retirement of Monsignor Ed McCullough of our diocese. Ed is well known and well liked by the men, and this was in part in his honor as well.
Last night's gathering saw at least twenty-five of the men gather for great food, drink, fellowship, and a Steeler win over the Ravens. It was relaxed and very informal. Bishop Brandt joined in the festivities as did a number of our new priests from the Philippines. It is a great tradition, and we are grateful to Rick for hosting us last night.
One Year Later
It was on Saturday, November 26, 2011 that we began the use of the Third Edition of the Roman Missal with its new translations of the prayers. It was a day that was preceded by much preparation, teaching, instruction and in some cases, dread. I, for one, was less than enthusiastic about the change. After thirty-eight years of praying prayers that were familiar, expressing easily what was in my heart, and flowing from the lips, the prospect of new and cumbersome translations was not welcome. After weeks of preparation, the initial greeting of "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all" brought the response "And also with you".
This Saturday, December 1, 2012 we reached the milestone of having completed one year with the "new book". On this First Sunday of Advent, following the same greeting, easily flowed the response "And with your spirit". I had no trouble finding my place in our edition of the Roman Missal (even though there are things that I still cannot find). I have learned to take my time with the wording and the pace of the prayer, and to more often than not make sense out of run on sentences and less than inspiring English grammar. I have learned to appreciate the many beautiful images and concepts contained in the prayers, especially the Collects, and I use them often in my homilies. I have not restricted myself to "one" option or Eucharistic Prayer, but vary them often. I find myself actually (almost) liking the word "dewfall". Being a slow learner, I am finally weaning myself away from visual slavery to the book, and I am regaining eye contact a little better. I still stumble over the Creed (unless I have the text in front of me) and I have a real mental block with the intro to the "Our Father".
In our parish we are into our second set of musical Mass settings, and both have been well received. Resistance is minimal ... and if you are an old "Star Trek" fan, then you will know that I say "resistance if futile". We are blessed with a very good musical program for which I am mighty thankful.
I have been to workshops with priests from many parts of the country who have a great dislike of this disruption in their liturgical prayer life, and who resist at every turn. I must admit that I thought that I would be among their number at this point in time. But I find that I am not.
The wording is lengthy, the sentence structure is at times terrible, and the challenge of praying the unfamiliar is uncomfortable, but it is here to stay ... and it is not that bad. Plus, it is the universal prayer of the Church, and we are finally on board. So, happy one year anniversary ... and by the time I am ready for retirement this translation and these prayers will be second nature to me and flow from my lips.
This Saturday, December 1, 2012 we reached the milestone of having completed one year with the "new book". On this First Sunday of Advent, following the same greeting, easily flowed the response "And with your spirit". I had no trouble finding my place in our edition of the Roman Missal (even though there are things that I still cannot find). I have learned to take my time with the wording and the pace of the prayer, and to more often than not make sense out of run on sentences and less than inspiring English grammar. I have learned to appreciate the many beautiful images and concepts contained in the prayers, especially the Collects, and I use them often in my homilies. I have not restricted myself to "one" option or Eucharistic Prayer, but vary them often. I find myself actually (almost) liking the word "dewfall". Being a slow learner, I am finally weaning myself away from visual slavery to the book, and I am regaining eye contact a little better. I still stumble over the Creed (unless I have the text in front of me) and I have a real mental block with the intro to the "Our Father".
In our parish we are into our second set of musical Mass settings, and both have been well received. Resistance is minimal ... and if you are an old "Star Trek" fan, then you will know that I say "resistance if futile". We are blessed with a very good musical program for which I am mighty thankful.
I have been to workshops with priests from many parts of the country who have a great dislike of this disruption in their liturgical prayer life, and who resist at every turn. I must admit that I thought that I would be among their number at this point in time. But I find that I am not.
The wording is lengthy, the sentence structure is at times terrible, and the challenge of praying the unfamiliar is uncomfortable, but it is here to stay ... and it is not that bad. Plus, it is the universal prayer of the Church, and we are finally on board. So, happy one year anniversary ... and by the time I am ready for retirement this translation and these prayers will be second nature to me and flow from my lips.
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