Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

News and Notes:

Last Sunday was Catechetical Sunday in the United States, a day in which we mark the beginning of a new season for catechesis in the life and mission of the Church.  The national theme for Catholic catechetical ministry in 2019 is “Stay With Us,” a phrase taken from the story of the risen Lord appearing to Cleopas and his companion on their way home from Jerusalem to Emmaus shortly after Christ’s death on the cross.  As you recall from this famous story, during their seven-mile walk back to their village accompanied by this mysterious stranger, Jesus interprets for them all that referred to him in the Scriptures.  Obviously Intrigued by the wisdom of this stranger, Cleopas and his companion urge Jesus to stay and have supper with them.  Their invitation leads Jesus to break blessed bread with them in a signature ritual that revealed his identity and confirmed his resurrection.  As a result of this amazing encounter with the risen Lord, Cleopas and his companion “set out at once and returned to Jerusalem,” where they bore witness to the risen One in their testimony to the apostles.  

All Catholic Christians, by virtue of their baptism, are called by Christ to do their part in handing on the faith, in the words they speak and by the conduct of their lives. So our common prayer should be “Stay With Us, Lord” as we seek to proclaim his merciful love to others.  But every parish needs some dedicated catechists to support parents and families in forming our children in the Catholic faith.

We are so blessed and grateful for the generous commitment of the men and women of our parishes who will serve as catechists in our Faith Formation program for 2019-2020.  They will be working along with our talented Faith Formation Leadership Team of Kate McGrath (Grades 1-8 at OLA); and Jamie Bossi and Robyn Yannone (Grades 1-10 at SMG).  Here is a prayer for catechists that we can all pray as the new Religious Education season approaches: 

Lord God, source of all wisdom and knowledge, you sent your son, Jesus Christ, to live among us and to proclaim his message of faith, hope, and love to all nations.  In your goodness bless our brothers and sisters who have offered themselves as catechists for your Church.  Strengthen them with your gifts that they may teach by word and example the truth that comes from you.  We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Blessings to all of you in the week ahead!