This weekend is particularly eventful for the parish because we have our Parish Ministry and Volunteers Rally. With the upcoming fiesta (Oktoberfest) set to the theme of “Strengthening Our Foundations,” we pray that this will be a time wherein we focus on the integral facet of spirituality. Let me point out that spirituality does not only mean prayers, though it is an essential part of it. It encompasses a wider scope of components that make up a robust and nourishing spiritual life. As your pastor, I do hope for a parish community that is immersed in a deep friendship with Jesus. That is a nourishing community. Remember that before Jesus asked Peter to feed His lambs and sheep, He first asked if Peter loved Him. If we love Jesus, the Good Shepherd who leads us to verdant pastures, then the flock will be fed well. People immersed in novenas and devotions but have no meaningful relationship with Jesus may end up presenting a dried-up version of what could be something captivating. This meaningful relationship means taking an intentional step forward in our Christian journey, away from simply checking the boxes of minimal Catholic compliance. Since we would like to highlight Eucharistic devotion, let us challenge ourselves to embrace adoration as part of our routine. As we ask the Lord to abide with us through our daily struggles, it would be but natural that we should accustom ourselves to His presence. At the conclusion of every Mass, we are asked to “Go in peace.” However, when we “Go” in the rush of Sundays, we may forget to consciously bring Jesus with us. As we enjoy a longer time to savor the presence of Jesus in the church or at the adoration chapel, we can be more conscious of making Jesus our companion as we return to our daily struggles. Adoration is closely related to the celebration of the Mass. It allows us to bask a little bit more in the presence of the very same Jesus who we celebrate in the Eucharistic sacrifice. It allows us time to reflect deeply on the readings we have encountered, especially in the Gospel of the day. It also gives us ample time to wholeheartedly pray for the Christian community that shares in that same communion with all the saints. Simply put, Eucharistic adoration can be that intentional time we set aside to linger in the presence of the Lord like the times we are silent after we hear the Word of God, when we pray for our intentions, and after we have received Jesus in communion. Adoration allows us to extend the beauty of the Mass with Jesus himself. In addition to this practical advice, may I also invite those who are interested in being guided into a deeper relationship with Jesus through our “Retreat for Everyday Life” which starts on September 15, 2024, till May 25, 2025. These will be an hour-long in-person session every other Sunday afternoon from 2-3 PM on the parish grounds (just check the announcements or email spiritualexercises@holyfamilyartesia.org for details).
Fr. John
