THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT FOR MY RETREAT last week. I always feel that the people of the par- ish—by prayer, by adjustment to priests at Mass, and providing for them—support me in taking this important time. It can be very enriching and strengthening, and this one was terrific. I spoke at my installation of a scriptural retreat during college on the Kingdom of God, and how it’s moti- vated me for Christian ministry and living ever since. For just the second time since that retreat, I went over the notes and scriptures of it through tapes and a bible, and talks with my spiritual director. It’s brought it back fresh and clear in my vision.

I could tell lately that I needed this. While things have been going well here in the parish, a lot of the joys, and some concerns, were staying on my mind into the evening and at night. I recognized that I needed more rooting again in the calm, secure spirit St. Teresa of Avila talks about: “In the faculties, senses, and passions, there are times of war, fatigue, and trial, but they do not as a rule. take the soul from its peace,’ (Interior Castle, 7:2). At the end of the week I felt this peace more securely, and have enjoyed being back with this foundation.

Last Sunday’s Gospel was the clear dual law of Jesus, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and your neighbor as yourself.” It’s a combination of laws unique to Jesus, as I said like a unique flavor of cookie my grandma used to make. It’s a challenge to live out both poles of this. And this weekend the blessed feast of All Saints falls on this Sunday. How many patron saints each of us could have! And they all have in common their complete dedication to this dual law.

Tomorrow night (Monday) we have our special All Souls Mass of Remembrance. It will be my first one here, but I’ve had similar events at precious parishes. I look forward to seeing the special practices we have and greeting the people.

This week I’ll start visiting the 2nd Grade class in school for a few lessons on their First Reconciliation, with my own spin and a chance to have them make me some drawings. It’s great to meet the kids at that age.

A special hint from my retreat: For your own experience of the Kingdom of God, and whenever you need a reminder that God is in charge: Read Psalms 93-100.

 

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