Marriage of Steve and Jennifer Lammon
(Readings: 7/9/2)
Our Lady of Grace
September 21, 2007
Spouses As Salt and Light for the World
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
NOTE: In lieu of “Deacon Preaching Sunday,” the following wedding homily on how we can be salt and light to others is being shared.
Symbols and Their Role
Salt and light, two very beautiful and disarmingly simple symbols feed our faith and challenge the quality of our discipleship as we gather today for the wedding of Steve and Jenn.
You look at the two of them and you’d have to say, with their years of experience, they are already well seasoned. They are already salt. With their life experience, they’re already lights to us. And that may be true.
But to say that, is to acknowledge already that we understand well the symbols of salt and light.
So I’d like to press the envelope a bit and ask us today, “What might the symbols of salt and light mean for marriage?”
If we take Jesus at this word, then his charge, “You are the salt of the earth; you are the light of the world,” implies that we are to live in such a manner that we impart the services or characteristics of salt and light to those around us.
And in this sense, the two symbols connect their power, which we are able to experience first-hand, to the choices that lie before us. They give us a vision of what needs to be done; they motivate us to act similarly; they hold the goal ever before us.
And they last a long, long time for every time we see salt and light we are reminded again of what we are called to do and the choices we must make.
Symbols – be they the wedding rings of Steve and Jenn will exchange, or salt and light – are profound realities that move us beyond themselves to higher realms of living.
Being Salt
So let us begin by taking a closer look at salt. When properly used, salt lends taste; it enhances without masking, muting or otherwise interfering with the flavors it complements.
When used correctly, salt is unobtrusive, and yet, when salt is not present, its absence renders food bland and virtually unpalatable. Try a bowl of soup without any salt.
Given these characteristics, Jesus’ imperative that his followers be the “salt of the earth” requires that you, Steve and Jenn, carefully and humbly examine yourselves and your contributions to your family, friends, and your workplace.
Do your words and works lend “taste” to how you act as a couple at gatherings, within your families, within your circle of friends?
Do your actions and decisions enhance and complement, without masking, muting or interfering with, the good things that are going on in your lives?
Is there quality in how you care for others, in your forgiving those who’ve wronged you, in being concerned about those in need?
Are your actions unobtrusive and yet necessary for the good of others … and missed when they are not present?
Steve and Jenn, you have certainly chosen a challenging symbol to become. Your faith will help you meet the challenge of the symbol of salt.
Being Light
Besides being the salt of the earth, Jesus’ disciples are also charged with being light for a world that would otherwise be darkened by human sin and selfishness.
That Jesus was well aware of the arduous struggle inherent in being light and of the tendency on the part of some to try to contain or confine that light is evidenced in his directive to “let your light shine before all.”
Steve and Jenn, that freely shining light is comprised of good acts such as those recommended in the Letter to the Hebrews that you have chosen as your second reading.
Your love must be mutual and continual. Honor your own marriage and the marriages of others. Do not neglect hospitality. Be content with what you have.
Only a clear vision and understanding of Jesus as your guide and helper in these efforts will help you not be afraid.
Your inner light does illumine our world by the way it helps you treat each other and your friends and family.
Heaven knows we all need this sort of modeling, for it is not something our workplaces, social or family gatherings will give us.
And the Role of Symbols
Ah, the challenges you have chosen in the images of salt and light!
To be salt, but not to overpower every other nuance of taste; to enable, facilitate, and enhance, but not to control or overwhelm,
To be light, but not to seek the limelight; to illuminate and warm, but not be overexposed,
This, my dear friends, is the balancing act that is the life of the disciple.
May every flick of a light switch lighting a darkened room.... May every shake of a saltshaker...
...be reminders of whom you have chosen to be for each other in marriage and to be for us your family and friends.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for September 16, 2007: The Little Thinks in Life
September 13, 2007
Focus: The Little Things in Life
Dear Friend,
It was with the tolling of the steeple bell that the children of our parish school and parents and parishioners stood in silence while I knelt before the cross at Mass this past Tuesday. Yes, it was the observance of September 11, 2001, a day that changed the world, and we were commending all those who died that day to the Lord.
A friend sent me the following entitled: The Little Things.
As you might know, the head of a company survived 9/11 because his son started kindergarten.
Another fellow was alive because it was his turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her alarm clock didn’t go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the NJ Turnpike because of an auto accident.
One of them missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take time to change.
One’s car wouldn’t start.
One went back to answer the telephone.
One had a child that dawdled and didn’t get ready as soon as he should have.
One couldn’t get a taxi.
Then there was the man who put on a new pair of shoes that morning, took the various means to get to work, but before he got there, he developed a blister on his foot. He stopped at a drugstore to buy a Band-Aid and that is why he is alive today.
Now when I am stuck in traffic, miss an elevator, turn back to answer a ringing telephone ... all the 101 little things that annoy me, I think to myself, “This is exactly where God wants me to be at this very moment...
Next time your morning seems to be going wrong, the children are slow getting dressed, you can’t seem to find the car keys, you hit every traffic light, don’t get mad or frustrated; God is at work watching over you.
May God continue to bless you with all those annoying little things and may you remember their possible purpose.
And may we be ready to meet the Lord at whatever hour he comes for us.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: The Little Things in Life
Dear Friend,
It was with the tolling of the steeple bell that the children of our parish school and parents and parishioners stood in silence while I knelt before the cross at Mass this past Tuesday. Yes, it was the observance of September 11, 2001, a day that changed the world, and we were commending all those who died that day to the Lord.
A friend sent me the following entitled: The Little Things.
As you might know, the head of a company survived 9/11 because his son started kindergarten.
Another fellow was alive because it was his turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her alarm clock didn’t go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the NJ Turnpike because of an auto accident.
One of them missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take time to change.
One’s car wouldn’t start.
One went back to answer the telephone.
One had a child that dawdled and didn’t get ready as soon as he should have.
One couldn’t get a taxi.
Then there was the man who put on a new pair of shoes that morning, took the various means to get to work, but before he got there, he developed a blister on his foot. He stopped at a drugstore to buy a Band-Aid and that is why he is alive today.
Now when I am stuck in traffic, miss an elevator, turn back to answer a ringing telephone ... all the 101 little things that annoy me, I think to myself, “This is exactly where God wants me to be at this very moment...
Next time your morning seems to be going wrong, the children are slow getting dressed, you can’t seem to find the car keys, you hit every traffic light, don’t get mad or frustrated; God is at work watching over you.
May God continue to bless you with all those annoying little things and may you remember their possible purpose.
And may we be ready to meet the Lord at whatever hour he comes for us.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for September 16,2007: Creating a Financially Healthy Parish
This and That:
Creating a Financially Healthy Parish
I was pleased to write you last week regarding the beginning of our three-week Annual Offertory Renewal. In the letter was included a financial report for Our Lady of Grace for the last three years. When you compare the new level of worship, programs, and services with the expenses, it becomes apparent that the ministries have grown, whereas the expenses have not increased proportionately. This can be attributed to new personnel, more responsibilities being assumed by members of our Pastoral Team, and the generous increase in the number of volunteers.
Please also note that while overall revenues have gone up modestly, income from weekly collections over the three years has actually gone down. This week you will receive a follow-up letter requesting that you consider a pledge in your Offertory Collection. Your new pledge contribution will begin November 1, 2007. Regular use of the weekly envelope is the very “blood” that keeps our parish so vibrant as the Body of Christ. Please respond generously and help us “Advance the Mission” of Our Lady of Grace. The financial report follows.
Many new efforts have been planned for our youth programs, our new Lacrosse, Soccer, and Basketball programs, Religious Education, and Adult Faith Enrichment. Like all new initiatives, they will require additional resources.
The characteristic of a Catholic parish is that all are welcome and “the more, the merrier,” after all, that is what “catholic” means – it means “everybody!” As Disciples of the Lord we are called to “Advance the Mission,” the mission of Christ himself, through a lively support of his Church, which is his physical body in the community. Let us all give thanks to God for being part of our parish family.
I personally want to thank you for your generosity in the past and to invite you again to join in our Annual Offertory Renewal Campaign. There can be no “Advancing the Mission” without “advancing the support.”
In parable after parable Jesus makes clear that all we have received from his loving Father, we have received as stewards. And when we choose to give charitably, we give because it is what God has done to us, it is how we are most like God, and it just “feels good;” it is the right thing to do. A pastor-friend of mine suggests to his people that they “Give till it feels good.” I would invite you to do the same.
God bless you for your support.
Gratefully,
Father Nick Amato
Creating a Financially Healthy Parish
I was pleased to write you last week regarding the beginning of our three-week Annual Offertory Renewal. In the letter was included a financial report for Our Lady of Grace for the last three years. When you compare the new level of worship, programs, and services with the expenses, it becomes apparent that the ministries have grown, whereas the expenses have not increased proportionately. This can be attributed to new personnel, more responsibilities being assumed by members of our Pastoral Team, and the generous increase in the number of volunteers.
Please also note that while overall revenues have gone up modestly, income from weekly collections over the three years has actually gone down. This week you will receive a follow-up letter requesting that you consider a pledge in your Offertory Collection. Your new pledge contribution will begin November 1, 2007. Regular use of the weekly envelope is the very “blood” that keeps our parish so vibrant as the Body of Christ. Please respond generously and help us “Advance the Mission” of Our Lady of Grace. The financial report follows.
Many new efforts have been planned for our youth programs, our new Lacrosse, Soccer, and Basketball programs, Religious Education, and Adult Faith Enrichment. Like all new initiatives, they will require additional resources.
The characteristic of a Catholic parish is that all are welcome and “the more, the merrier,” after all, that is what “catholic” means – it means “everybody!” As Disciples of the Lord we are called to “Advance the Mission,” the mission of Christ himself, through a lively support of his Church, which is his physical body in the community. Let us all give thanks to God for being part of our parish family.
I personally want to thank you for your generosity in the past and to invite you again to join in our Annual Offertory Renewal Campaign. There can be no “Advancing the Mission” without “advancing the support.”
In parable after parable Jesus makes clear that all we have received from his loving Father, we have received as stewards. And when we choose to give charitably, we give because it is what God has done to us, it is how we are most like God, and it just “feels good;” it is the right thing to do. A pastor-friend of mine suggests to his people that they “Give till it feels good.” I would invite you to do the same.
God bless you for your support.
Gratefully,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly HOMILY for September 16, 2007: Saved As a People
24th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Annual Offertory Renewal
Our Lady of Grace
September 16, 2007
Focus: The Church exists to assist us in knowing Jesus Christ and for that we give thanks
Function: To have members of the assembly realize the importance of the Church in their lives and show it by their monetary support
Saved As a People
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Introduction
A little girl stood near a small church from which she had been turned away because it was too crowded. “I can’t go to Sunday School,” she sobbed to the pastor as he walked by.
The pastor took her by the hand and brought her inside and found a place for her in the Sunday school class. The child was so happy she went to bed that night thinking of the children who had no place to worship Jesus.
Some two years later, the little girl lay dead in one of the poor tenement buildings. Her parents called for the kindhearted pastor to handle the final arrangements.
On her was found a worn red purse that seemed to have come from some trash dump. Inside it there was 57 cents and a note, scribbled in childish handwriting, which read: “This is to help build the little church bigger so more children can go to Sunday School.”
Reading the note, the Pastor knew instantly what he would do. He told his congregation the story of her unselfish love and devotion and he challenged his people to raise enough money for a larger building.
A wealthy realtor offered them a parcel of land worth many thousands. When he heard that the church could not pay that amount, he offered to sell it for … yes, 57 cents.
Inspired, church members began giving and within five years the little girl’s gift had increased to $250,000, which was a huge sum for that time in the late 1900’s.
Her belief that (1) The Church was needed to help others to know Jesus Christ and (2) Her willingness to give sacrificially, paid off in large dividends.
First Reading
The need for a community of faith to support us in our relationship with God is so evident in the first and second readings.
In the first, from the Book of Exodus, you have Moses as head of the community going to the Jewish People because they have become depraved.
They’ve given up their belief in God, turned from worship, and are now bowing down to idols, in fact, a golden calf. They have become “stiffed necked,” that is, resolute in their wayward ways and unwilling to hear the Lord…
… and Moses pleads with God to hold off his punishment. He goes to the People to bring them back to worship of the God of their fathers.
Without a community of faith and without the leadership of a Moses’ it is very easy to go adrift and become lost.
Second Reading
Paul, in his Letter to Timothy, is praising God for the ministry of the Church.
In his own words he has gone from “a blasphemer, a persecutor and arrogant” to a life full of grace, faith and love.
As a sinner then, he knows firsthand, through the community of believers, God’s tender mercy and outstanding patience, and for that experience he’s willing to give God the honor and glory that is rightly due him.
Paul’s testimony is that what God has done in him through grace, has been done so others might see!
And it takes a Church to see that going on. It takes a Church to name it. It takes a Church to proclaim it as we do today.
Application
Last week I sent you a letter to share what the Church, as our parish, has done and what it needs to do this year to continue being the Body of Christ in this community.
This week you will be receiving a second letter from me asking for your support through regular, weekly, Offertory giving that supports our worship, programs, and services done through our 60 ministries.
In the letter will be a commitment card that helps you understand your commitment in relationship to the gifts that God has given you.
And just as it took a community of faith to draw the Jews back to the faithful worship of God, and again, it took a Church to turn the likes of a St. Paul around, so it takes a parish to do the same for us and for others today.
Conclusion
The next time you are in Philadelphia, you might look up the Temple Baptist Church. It now seats 3,300 people and the Sunday School building adjoining it houses hundreds of children.
And in one of the rooms you will find the picture of the sweet little girl whose 57 cents made such a difference.
What the story of that little poor girl continues to tell us all is that (1) The Church exists to assist us in coming to Jesus Christ and (2) For that we need to give thanks.
Let our generous response to the Annual Offertory Renewal be a symbol of that thanks.
Annual Offertory Renewal
Our Lady of Grace
September 16, 2007
Focus: The Church exists to assist us in knowing Jesus Christ and for that we give thanks
Function: To have members of the assembly realize the importance of the Church in their lives and show it by their monetary support
Saved As a People
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Introduction
A little girl stood near a small church from which she had been turned away because it was too crowded. “I can’t go to Sunday School,” she sobbed to the pastor as he walked by.
The pastor took her by the hand and brought her inside and found a place for her in the Sunday school class. The child was so happy she went to bed that night thinking of the children who had no place to worship Jesus.
Some two years later, the little girl lay dead in one of the poor tenement buildings. Her parents called for the kindhearted pastor to handle the final arrangements.
On her was found a worn red purse that seemed to have come from some trash dump. Inside it there was 57 cents and a note, scribbled in childish handwriting, which read: “This is to help build the little church bigger so more children can go to Sunday School.”
Reading the note, the Pastor knew instantly what he would do. He told his congregation the story of her unselfish love and devotion and he challenged his people to raise enough money for a larger building.
A wealthy realtor offered them a parcel of land worth many thousands. When he heard that the church could not pay that amount, he offered to sell it for … yes, 57 cents.
Inspired, church members began giving and within five years the little girl’s gift had increased to $250,000, which was a huge sum for that time in the late 1900’s.
Her belief that (1) The Church was needed to help others to know Jesus Christ and (2) Her willingness to give sacrificially, paid off in large dividends.
First Reading
The need for a community of faith to support us in our relationship with God is so evident in the first and second readings.
In the first, from the Book of Exodus, you have Moses as head of the community going to the Jewish People because they have become depraved.
They’ve given up their belief in God, turned from worship, and are now bowing down to idols, in fact, a golden calf. They have become “stiffed necked,” that is, resolute in their wayward ways and unwilling to hear the Lord…
… and Moses pleads with God to hold off his punishment. He goes to the People to bring them back to worship of the God of their fathers.
Without a community of faith and without the leadership of a Moses’ it is very easy to go adrift and become lost.
Second Reading
Paul, in his Letter to Timothy, is praising God for the ministry of the Church.
In his own words he has gone from “a blasphemer, a persecutor and arrogant” to a life full of grace, faith and love.
As a sinner then, he knows firsthand, through the community of believers, God’s tender mercy and outstanding patience, and for that experience he’s willing to give God the honor and glory that is rightly due him.
Paul’s testimony is that what God has done in him through grace, has been done so others might see!
And it takes a Church to see that going on. It takes a Church to name it. It takes a Church to proclaim it as we do today.
Application
Last week I sent you a letter to share what the Church, as our parish, has done and what it needs to do this year to continue being the Body of Christ in this community.
This week you will be receiving a second letter from me asking for your support through regular, weekly, Offertory giving that supports our worship, programs, and services done through our 60 ministries.
In the letter will be a commitment card that helps you understand your commitment in relationship to the gifts that God has given you.
And just as it took a community of faith to draw the Jews back to the faithful worship of God, and again, it took a Church to turn the likes of a St. Paul around, so it takes a parish to do the same for us and for others today.
Conclusion
The next time you are in Philadelphia, you might look up the Temple Baptist Church. It now seats 3,300 people and the Sunday School building adjoining it houses hundreds of children.
And in one of the rooms you will find the picture of the sweet little girl whose 57 cents made such a difference.
What the story of that little poor girl continues to tell us all is that (1) The Church exists to assist us in coming to Jesus Christ and (2) For that we need to give thanks.
Let our generous response to the Annual Offertory Renewal be a symbol of that thanks.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for September 9, 2007: A New Year of Programs, Services, and Challenges
September 6, 2007
Focus: A New Year of Programs, Services, and Challenges
Dear Friend,
With a new school year and the beginning of parish programs and services come both challenges and signs of hope for each of us. Our new Mass program with an 11:30am Sunday Mass for Youth and the Young at Heart, with all-time record numbers of registrations for Religious Education and youth programs, with a new youth musical soon to have try-outs, with second year athletic programs in Lacrosse, Soccer, and Basketball, we can feel the excitement and promise of the New Year.
The challenges will also be there: our Annual Offertory Renewal and hitting our goal for income, teaching two classes of Homiletics to 3rd year theologians at St. Mary’s Seminary each week, getting ready to leave for Mepkin Abbey on January 1, 2008 for three months and the smooth transition, and caring for parishioners with special needs and concerns – always the greatest challenge!
And with the grace of God and a grounding in daily prayer and meditation, it will be another great year. As I “grow in age and grace” I realize “success” cannot be measured in human terms, but rather in terms of how well we serve, how well we love, how well we forgive. To focus on these values is to already have, as Jesus often assures us, “treasure in heaven.”
Best wishes for a happy “New Year” to each of you and especially to the children, youth, and teens in your lives.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: A New Year of Programs, Services, and Challenges
Dear Friend,
With a new school year and the beginning of parish programs and services come both challenges and signs of hope for each of us. Our new Mass program with an 11:30am Sunday Mass for Youth and the Young at Heart, with all-time record numbers of registrations for Religious Education and youth programs, with a new youth musical soon to have try-outs, with second year athletic programs in Lacrosse, Soccer, and Basketball, we can feel the excitement and promise of the New Year.
The challenges will also be there: our Annual Offertory Renewal and hitting our goal for income, teaching two classes of Homiletics to 3rd year theologians at St. Mary’s Seminary each week, getting ready to leave for Mepkin Abbey on January 1, 2008 for three months and the smooth transition, and caring for parishioners with special needs and concerns – always the greatest challenge!
And with the grace of God and a grounding in daily prayer and meditation, it will be another great year. As I “grow in age and grace” I realize “success” cannot be measured in human terms, but rather in terms of how well we serve, how well we love, how well we forgive. To focus on these values is to already have, as Jesus often assures us, “treasure in heaven.”
Best wishes for a happy “New Year” to each of you and especially to the children, youth, and teens in your lives.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for September 9, 2007: Only 4 Correct and You Are a Success!
This and That:
Only 4 Correct and You Are a Success!
What follows is seemingly the world’s easiest quiz. I wish you the best on this, but you must be honest. You know “Who’s” watching!
And remember, you only need 4 correct answers to declare yourself very bright!
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
PS. Scroll down for the answers. No cheating.
(1) How long did the Hundred Years’ War last?
(2) Which country makes Panama hats?
(3) From which animal do we get catgut?
(4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?
(5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of?
(6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?
(7) What was King George VI’s first name?
(8) What color is a purple finch?
(9) Where are Chinese Gooseberries from?
(10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane?
All done?
Remember, you need 4 correct answers to pass. Check your answers below.
Answers to the Quiz:
(1) How long did the Hundred Years War last? 116 years
(2) Which country makes Panama hats? Ecuador
(3) From which animal do we get catgut? Sheep and Horses
(4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution? November
(5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of? Squirrel fur
(6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal? Dogs
(7) What was King George VI’s first name? Albert
(8) What color is a purple finch? Crimson
(9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from? New Zealand
(10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane? Orange, of course.
What do you mean, you failed? Me, too! (And if you try to tell me you passed, we have confessions on Saturday afternoon at 4:00pm.)
Only 4 Correct and You Are a Success!
What follows is seemingly the world’s easiest quiz. I wish you the best on this, but you must be honest. You know “Who’s” watching!
And remember, you only need 4 correct answers to declare yourself very bright!
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
PS. Scroll down for the answers. No cheating.
(1) How long did the Hundred Years’ War last?
(2) Which country makes Panama hats?
(3) From which animal do we get catgut?
(4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?
(5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of?
(6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?
(7) What was King George VI’s first name?
(8) What color is a purple finch?
(9) Where are Chinese Gooseberries from?
(10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane?
All done?
Remember, you need 4 correct answers to pass. Check your answers below.
Answers to the Quiz:
(1) How long did the Hundred Years War last? 116 years
(2) Which country makes Panama hats? Ecuador
(3) From which animal do we get catgut? Sheep and Horses
(4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution? November
(5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of? Squirrel fur
(6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal? Dogs
(7) What was King George VI’s first name? Albert
(8) What color is a purple finch? Crimson
(9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from? New Zealand
(10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane? Orange, of course.
What do you mean, you failed? Me, too! (And if you try to tell me you passed, we have confessions on Saturday afternoon at 4:00pm.)
Weekly HOMILY for September 9, 2007: Becoming a Full Disciple
23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
September 9, 2007
Focus: Jesus calls us to be full disciples
Function: Through detachment, we will find ourselves going through a process of formation.
Becoming a Full Disciple
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Monkeys: Not Letting Go
A tribe in Africa has an ingenious way for trapping wild monkeys.
They take a large pumpkin and hollow it out completely. Then they cut a hole in the side of the pumpkin that is just big enough for a monkey’s hand to slip through.
Then they fill the pumpkin with peanuts, tie it to a tree and leave. When all is quiet, the curious monkeys come to investigate.
They smell the peanuts and reach through the hole to grab them. The problem is that the hole in the pumpkin is not big enough for the monkeys to pull out their fists that are clenched and full of peanuts.
Of course, the monkeys refuse to open their fists and release the peanuts and you can figure out what happens.
The people quietly move in, pick up the trapped monkeys and ship them off to a zoo.
Jesus: Let Go of …
In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls us to do what these monkeys are unable to do.
He calls us to let go of some things. To use his words, he calls us says to “turn our backs on family, on self and on possessions.”
Now letting go of or “turning our backs on family, self and possessions” is a Hebrew way of expression in Jesus’ day. It is an exaggerated, negative way of saying something positive.
It is a way of saying: prefer or choose or make something else your priority. And then, do everything else guided by this priority or with this priority in mind.
So, in this context, Jesus wants us to love and value our family and friends. But he is also saying that sometimes we may have to act differently from them, if we are really going to be his disciples.
Jesus wants us to take care of and be true to ourselves. But he is also saying that sometimes we will be challenged to change our mindset or do what we would prefer not doing, if we are really going to be his disciples.
And while Jesus wants us to be responsible for our financial and material well-being and even to enjoy the goods of the earth, he is also saying that that we cannot get absorbed in earthly comforts if we are really going to be his disciples.
We will have to let go in these ways, as those monkeys failed to do. Doing this (1) Will not always easy and (2) It will not happen all at once.
In fact, I would hold that becoming a full disciple in the way that Jesus is talking about here is actually a process.
My thought is for you or me responding to Jesus’ call will be a process of becoming (1) First human, (2) then Christian and (3) only then a disciple.
Discipleship: A Process
For starters, we are (1) to become fully human.
Our spiritual development begins with the awareness that all human beings are created in the image and likeness of God. And so, we are to reverence persons and all created things and not misuse or abuse them.
We are to care for and not curse. We are to protect life and not destroy it.
And as we grow in our humanity and become more and more human, we are also (2) to become Christian.
At this step in the process, we come to identify more and more with the person of Jesus Christ. And so we seek to know God more and more through knowing God’s Son Jesus.
At this stage, we are able to put up with some hardship because we are strengthened by God’s grace especially in the Sacraments. Here we also work at becoming understanding and compassionate persons.
And then, finally, we as human and as Christian are ready to take the next step and (3) become full-fledged disciples of Jesus.
Again, with the image of those monkeys in mind, here we are willing to let go of anything that keeps us from being like Jesus. And so, we try to live the mystery of dying and rising in everyday life – dying to selfishness so that we can come to fuller and fuller life.
At this stage, even though we may have to defend ourselves, we let go of our instinct for vengeance, and seek peace and reconciliation instead. Here we also work to let go of our inclinations toward consumerism and find ways of sharing with those who do not have enough.
Conclusion
This is something of the challenging, perhaps even daunting life of a disciple of Jesus.
It takes a process of growth to get there: (1) From becoming more and more human (2) To becoming more and more Christian (3) To becoming a disciple.
No wonder that Jesus uses such jarring, almost radical expressions today to prepare us for this path of growth.
Am I willing to travel it? It will take opening your fist and letting go of your peanuts!
Our Lady of Grace
September 9, 2007
Focus: Jesus calls us to be full disciples
Function: Through detachment, we will find ourselves going through a process of formation.
Becoming a Full Disciple
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Monkeys: Not Letting Go
A tribe in Africa has an ingenious way for trapping wild monkeys.
They take a large pumpkin and hollow it out completely. Then they cut a hole in the side of the pumpkin that is just big enough for a monkey’s hand to slip through.
Then they fill the pumpkin with peanuts, tie it to a tree and leave. When all is quiet, the curious monkeys come to investigate.
They smell the peanuts and reach through the hole to grab them. The problem is that the hole in the pumpkin is not big enough for the monkeys to pull out their fists that are clenched and full of peanuts.
Of course, the monkeys refuse to open their fists and release the peanuts and you can figure out what happens.
The people quietly move in, pick up the trapped monkeys and ship them off to a zoo.
Jesus: Let Go of …
In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls us to do what these monkeys are unable to do.
He calls us to let go of some things. To use his words, he calls us says to “turn our backs on family, on self and on possessions.”
Now letting go of or “turning our backs on family, self and possessions” is a Hebrew way of expression in Jesus’ day. It is an exaggerated, negative way of saying something positive.
It is a way of saying: prefer or choose or make something else your priority. And then, do everything else guided by this priority or with this priority in mind.
So, in this context, Jesus wants us to love and value our family and friends. But he is also saying that sometimes we may have to act differently from them, if we are really going to be his disciples.
Jesus wants us to take care of and be true to ourselves. But he is also saying that sometimes we will be challenged to change our mindset or do what we would prefer not doing, if we are really going to be his disciples.
And while Jesus wants us to be responsible for our financial and material well-being and even to enjoy the goods of the earth, he is also saying that that we cannot get absorbed in earthly comforts if we are really going to be his disciples.
We will have to let go in these ways, as those monkeys failed to do. Doing this (1) Will not always easy and (2) It will not happen all at once.
In fact, I would hold that becoming a full disciple in the way that Jesus is talking about here is actually a process.
My thought is for you or me responding to Jesus’ call will be a process of becoming (1) First human, (2) then Christian and (3) only then a disciple.
Discipleship: A Process
For starters, we are (1) to become fully human.
Our spiritual development begins with the awareness that all human beings are created in the image and likeness of God. And so, we are to reverence persons and all created things and not misuse or abuse them.
We are to care for and not curse. We are to protect life and not destroy it.
And as we grow in our humanity and become more and more human, we are also (2) to become Christian.
At this step in the process, we come to identify more and more with the person of Jesus Christ. And so we seek to know God more and more through knowing God’s Son Jesus.
At this stage, we are able to put up with some hardship because we are strengthened by God’s grace especially in the Sacraments. Here we also work at becoming understanding and compassionate persons.
And then, finally, we as human and as Christian are ready to take the next step and (3) become full-fledged disciples of Jesus.
Again, with the image of those monkeys in mind, here we are willing to let go of anything that keeps us from being like Jesus. And so, we try to live the mystery of dying and rising in everyday life – dying to selfishness so that we can come to fuller and fuller life.
At this stage, even though we may have to defend ourselves, we let go of our instinct for vengeance, and seek peace and reconciliation instead. Here we also work to let go of our inclinations toward consumerism and find ways of sharing with those who do not have enough.
Conclusion
This is something of the challenging, perhaps even daunting life of a disciple of Jesus.
It takes a process of growth to get there: (1) From becoming more and more human (2) To becoming more and more Christian (3) To becoming a disciple.
No wonder that Jesus uses such jarring, almost radical expressions today to prepare us for this path of growth.
Am I willing to travel it? It will take opening your fist and letting go of your peanuts!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for August 26, 2007: Nova Scotia Bound
August 23, 2007
Focus: Nova Scotia Bound
Dear Friend,
Tomorrow I will begin a week’s vacation as a guest of a priest friend whose parish is on a cruise out of Baltimore to Nova Scotia. It will be a time for lots of reading and putting the final touches on my homiletics course which begins the day after Labor Day.
The other “story” is the change of Mass schedule which begins Labor Day Weekend. Ah the challenge of making 4,600 people happy!
Since I’m out of the office next week, there will be no Message, This and That, and homily next Thursday. Below are the “This and That’s” for this weekend and next. I will not be preaching either this weekend or the weekend I return.
The weekly email will resume on Thursday, September 6, 2007.
Best wishes for a happy holiday weekend.
Fondly,
Father Nick
Focus: Nova Scotia Bound
Dear Friend,
Tomorrow I will begin a week’s vacation as a guest of a priest friend whose parish is on a cruise out of Baltimore to Nova Scotia. It will be a time for lots of reading and putting the final touches on my homiletics course which begins the day after Labor Day.
The other “story” is the change of Mass schedule which begins Labor Day Weekend. Ah the challenge of making 4,600 people happy!
Since I’m out of the office next week, there will be no Message, This and That, and homily next Thursday. Below are the “This and That’s” for this weekend and next. I will not be preaching either this weekend or the weekend I return.
The weekly email will resume on Thursday, September 6, 2007.
Best wishes for a happy holiday weekend.
Fondly,
Father Nick
Weekly THIS AND THAT for September 2, 2007: Laus Deo -- A Little History Lesson Worth Noting
This and That for September 2, 2007:
Laus Deo: A Little History Lesson Worth Noting
I ran across a piece I used to share with students. When I searched past bulletin notes, I realized I had not shared it in this column before. With Labor Day a national holiday, this is a history lesson worth noting.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
One detail that is not mentioned, in DC, is that there can never be a building of greater height than the Washington Monument.
With all the uproar about removing any vestige of faith from monuments this is worth a moment or two of your time. It makes for interesting reading.
On the aluminum cap, atop the Washington Monument in Washington, DC, are displayed two words: “Laus Deo.” No one can see these words. In fact, most visitors to the Monument are totally unaware they are even there and for that matter, probably couldn’t care less.
Once you know the history of these words, Laus Deo, you will want to share this with everyone you know.
The words have been there for many years; they are 555 feet, 5.125 inches high, perched top the monument, facing skyward to the Father of our Nation, overlooking the 69 square miles which comprise the District of Columbia, Capital of the United States of America.
Laus Deo! Two seemingly insignificant, un-noticed words. Out of sight and, one might think, out of mind, but very meaningfully placed at the highest point over what is one of the greatest cities in the world.
So, what do those two words, in Latin, composed of only seven letters, possibly mean? Very simply, they say “Praise be to God!”
Though construction of this giant obelisk began in 1848, when James Polk was President of the United States, it was not until 1888 that the monument was inaugurated and opened to the public. It took twenty- five years to finally cap the memorial with a tribute to the Father of our nation, Laus Deo, “Praise be to God!”
From atop this magnificent granite and marble structure, visitors may take in the beautiful panoramic view of the City with its division into four major segments. From that vantage point, one can also easily see the original plan of the designer, Pierre Charles l‘Enfant, a perfect cross imposed upon the landscape, with the White House to the north. The Jefferson Memorial is to the south, the Capitol to the east and the Lincoln Memorial to the west.
A cross you ask? Why a cross? What about separation of Church and State? Yes, a cross; separation of Church and State is not in the Constitution.
“Praise be to God.” Within the Monument itself are 898 steps and 50 landings. As one climbs the steps and pauses at the landings the memorial stones share a message. On the 12th Landing is a prayer offered by the City of Baltimore; on the 20th is a memorial presented by some Chinese Christians; on the 24th a presentation made by Sunday School children from New York and Philadelphia quoting Proverbs 10:7, Luke 18:16 and Proverbs 22:6. “Praise be to God!”
When the cornerstone of the Washington Monument was laid on July 4th, 1848 deposited within it were many items including the Holy Bible presented by the Bible Society. Such was the discipline, the moral direction, and the spiritual mood given by the founder and first President of our unique democracy.
The following is George Washington’s prayer for America.
“Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection; that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large. And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
When one stops to observe the inscriptions found in public places all over our Nation’s Capitol, he or she will easily find the signature of God, as it is unmistakably inscribed everywhere you look. You may forget the width and height of “Laus Deo,” its location, or the architects, but no one who reads this will be able to forget its meaning, or these words of the Psalmist: “Unless the Lord builds the house its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)
Laus Deo: A Little History Lesson Worth Noting
I ran across a piece I used to share with students. When I searched past bulletin notes, I realized I had not shared it in this column before. With Labor Day a national holiday, this is a history lesson worth noting.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
One detail that is not mentioned, in DC, is that there can never be a building of greater height than the Washington Monument.
With all the uproar about removing any vestige of faith from monuments this is worth a moment or two of your time. It makes for interesting reading.
On the aluminum cap, atop the Washington Monument in Washington, DC, are displayed two words: “Laus Deo.” No one can see these words. In fact, most visitors to the Monument are totally unaware they are even there and for that matter, probably couldn’t care less.
Once you know the history of these words, Laus Deo, you will want to share this with everyone you know.
The words have been there for many years; they are 555 feet, 5.125 inches high, perched top the monument, facing skyward to the Father of our Nation, overlooking the 69 square miles which comprise the District of Columbia, Capital of the United States of America.
Laus Deo! Two seemingly insignificant, un-noticed words. Out of sight and, one might think, out of mind, but very meaningfully placed at the highest point over what is one of the greatest cities in the world.
So, what do those two words, in Latin, composed of only seven letters, possibly mean? Very simply, they say “Praise be to God!”
Though construction of this giant obelisk began in 1848, when James Polk was President of the United States, it was not until 1888 that the monument was inaugurated and opened to the public. It took twenty- five years to finally cap the memorial with a tribute to the Father of our nation, Laus Deo, “Praise be to God!”
From atop this magnificent granite and marble structure, visitors may take in the beautiful panoramic view of the City with its division into four major segments. From that vantage point, one can also easily see the original plan of the designer, Pierre Charles l‘Enfant, a perfect cross imposed upon the landscape, with the White House to the north. The Jefferson Memorial is to the south, the Capitol to the east and the Lincoln Memorial to the west.
A cross you ask? Why a cross? What about separation of Church and State? Yes, a cross; separation of Church and State is not in the Constitution.
“Praise be to God.” Within the Monument itself are 898 steps and 50 landings. As one climbs the steps and pauses at the landings the memorial stones share a message. On the 12th Landing is a prayer offered by the City of Baltimore; on the 20th is a memorial presented by some Chinese Christians; on the 24th a presentation made by Sunday School children from New York and Philadelphia quoting Proverbs 10:7, Luke 18:16 and Proverbs 22:6. “Praise be to God!”
When the cornerstone of the Washington Monument was laid on July 4th, 1848 deposited within it were many items including the Holy Bible presented by the Bible Society. Such was the discipline, the moral direction, and the spiritual mood given by the founder and first President of our unique democracy.
The following is George Washington’s prayer for America.
“Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection; that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large. And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
When one stops to observe the inscriptions found in public places all over our Nation’s Capitol, he or she will easily find the signature of God, as it is unmistakably inscribed everywhere you look. You may forget the width and height of “Laus Deo,” its location, or the architects, but no one who reads this will be able to forget its meaning, or these words of the Psalmist: “Unless the Lord builds the house its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)
Weekly THIS AND THAT for August 26, 2007: How Do You Decide Whom to Marry?
This and That for August 26, 2007:
How Do You Decide Whom to Marry?
With the summer flurry of fall wedding preparations and meeting with brides and grooms, the following advice from children on how to decide on that one special person came to mind. The good Lord knows, some of this wisdom when we were their ages would have helped us out as well.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
-- Alan, age 10
No person really decides before they grow up who they’re going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.
-- Kristen, age 10
What is the right age to get married?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person forever by then.
-- Camille, age 10
No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.
-- Freddie, age 6
How can a stranger tell if two people are married?
You might have to guess, but you can usually tell on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
-- Derrick, age 8
What do you think your mom and dad have in common?
Both don't want any more kids.
-- Lori, age 8
What do most people do on a date?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
-- Lynnette, age 8
On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that Usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
-- Martin, age 10
What would you do on a first date that was turning sour?
I’d run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
-- Craig, age 9
When is it okay to kiss someone?
That’s easy. When they’re rich.
-- Pam, age 7
The kissing law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that.
- - Curt, age 7
The rule for kissing goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It’s the right thing to do.
-- Howard, age 8
Is it better to be single or married?
It’s better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them.
-- Anita, age 9
How would the world be different if people didn’t get married?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn’t there?
-- Kelvin, age 8
How would you make a marriage work?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a truck.
-- Ricky, age 10
How Do You Decide Whom to Marry?
With the summer flurry of fall wedding preparations and meeting with brides and grooms, the following advice from children on how to decide on that one special person came to mind. The good Lord knows, some of this wisdom when we were their ages would have helped us out as well.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
-- Alan, age 10
No person really decides before they grow up who they’re going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.
-- Kristen, age 10
What is the right age to get married?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person forever by then.
-- Camille, age 10
No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.
-- Freddie, age 6
How can a stranger tell if two people are married?
You might have to guess, but you can usually tell on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
-- Derrick, age 8
What do you think your mom and dad have in common?
Both don't want any more kids.
-- Lori, age 8
What do most people do on a date?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
-- Lynnette, age 8
On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that Usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
-- Martin, age 10
What would you do on a first date that was turning sour?
I’d run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
-- Craig, age 9
When is it okay to kiss someone?
That’s easy. When they’re rich.
-- Pam, age 7
The kissing law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that.
- - Curt, age 7
The rule for kissing goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It’s the right thing to do.
-- Howard, age 8
Is it better to be single or married?
It’s better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them.
-- Anita, age 9
How would the world be different if people didn’t get married?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn’t there?
-- Kelvin, age 8
How would you make a marriage work?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a truck.
-- Ricky, age 10
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for August 19, 2007: Teaching Homiletics
August 19, 2007
Focus: Teaching Homiletics
Dear Friend,
It is the final week of preparation for the Homiletics Course that I will be teaching 3rd year theologians at St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Roland Park, Baltimore beginning September. I was offered the position last spring by the Rector, Bob Leavitt, because they wanted more of a practitioner than a theoretician teaching the soon-to-be priests. Needless to say I was flattered.
As I was analyzing what went into the preparation of a Sunday homily, I was also reading source books of noted homiletics professors. What I have came to realize is that what they were suggesting where ideas I had come to by a hit-and-miss method over my almost 40 years of preaching. Talk about someone putting words to your feelings and intuitions!
Just to let you know, the homily for me begins in personal reflection on the sacred text the Sunday before, then moves into exegesis or study of the text, then into seeing what other preachers have done by way of commentary. This phase ends with the clarification of a “focus” statement. Once I know my focus, I can then state what the “function” of the homily will be, that is, what I hope to have happen in the heart of the hearer. With these three steps, I then begin to outline, which is called the form. So there you have it: focus, function, and form.
Tomorrow we have an all-day faculty in-service at the Seminary. This will be a new experience in my own life as a preacher/teacher. I have enjoyed working with seminarians over the years. Now I get to do it more intensely as their teacher two classes a week.
Enjoy these closing weeks of summer.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: Teaching Homiletics
Dear Friend,
It is the final week of preparation for the Homiletics Course that I will be teaching 3rd year theologians at St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Roland Park, Baltimore beginning September. I was offered the position last spring by the Rector, Bob Leavitt, because they wanted more of a practitioner than a theoretician teaching the soon-to-be priests. Needless to say I was flattered.
As I was analyzing what went into the preparation of a Sunday homily, I was also reading source books of noted homiletics professors. What I have came to realize is that what they were suggesting where ideas I had come to by a hit-and-miss method over my almost 40 years of preaching. Talk about someone putting words to your feelings and intuitions!
Just to let you know, the homily for me begins in personal reflection on the sacred text the Sunday before, then moves into exegesis or study of the text, then into seeing what other preachers have done by way of commentary. This phase ends with the clarification of a “focus” statement. Once I know my focus, I can then state what the “function” of the homily will be, that is, what I hope to have happen in the heart of the hearer. With these three steps, I then begin to outline, which is called the form. So there you have it: focus, function, and form.
Tomorrow we have an all-day faculty in-service at the Seminary. This will be a new experience in my own life as a preacher/teacher. I have enjoyed working with seminarians over the years. Now I get to do it more intensely as their teacher two classes a week.
Enjoy these closing weeks of summer.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for August 19, 2007: Do You Need Washing?
This and That:
Do You Need Washing?
Summer thunderstorms can take you be surprise. See how surprised this shopper got from a lesson learned at Targets during a summer storm.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the tops of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.
The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in “Mom let’s run through the rain,” she said.
“What?” Mom asked.
“Lets run through the rain!” She repeated.
“No, honey. We’ll wait until it slows down a bit,” Mom replied.
This young child waited about another minute and repeated: “Mom, let’s run through the rain.”
“We’ll get soaked if we do,” Mom said.
“No, we won’t, Mom. That’s not what you said this morning,” the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom’s arm.
“This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?”
“Don’t you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, ‘If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!”
The entire crowd stopped dead silent. You couldn’t hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes.
Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child’s life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
“Honey, you are absolutely right. Let’s run through the rain. If God let’s us get wet, well maybe we just needed washing,” Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars.
And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions; they can take away your money and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories. So, don’t forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday. “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.”
Take the time to run through the rain soon and do it with wild abandon.
Do You Need Washing?
Summer thunderstorms can take you be surprise. See how surprised this shopper got from a lesson learned at Targets during a summer storm.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the tops of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.
The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in “Mom let’s run through the rain,” she said.
“What?” Mom asked.
“Lets run through the rain!” She repeated.
“No, honey. We’ll wait until it slows down a bit,” Mom replied.
This young child waited about another minute and repeated: “Mom, let’s run through the rain.”
“We’ll get soaked if we do,” Mom said.
“No, we won’t, Mom. That’s not what you said this morning,” the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom’s arm.
“This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?”
“Don’t you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, ‘If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!”
The entire crowd stopped dead silent. You couldn’t hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes.
Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child’s life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
“Honey, you are absolutely right. Let’s run through the rain. If God let’s us get wet, well maybe we just needed washing,” Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars.
And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions; they can take away your money and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories. So, don’t forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday. “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.”
Take the time to run through the rain soon and do it with wild abandon.
Weekly HOMILY for August 19, 2007: Fire, Baptism, and Division
20th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
August 19, 2007
Focus: Jesus brings division
Function: To have the hearer reassert his/her identity as a Catholic
Fire, Baptism, and Division
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Youth and the Gospel
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak one-on-one with a number of our youth.
These are high school age teenagers and they are attending a variety of schools, both public and Catholic. One of my learnings from these conversations is the challenge our youth are facing today.
They have the opportunity to experiment with drugs – with smoking pot and trying other more dangerous selections. They have the opportunity to drink beer and other alcoholic beverages. And they have the temptation to engage in sexual activity.
It is also clear to me that so many of our youth are very good persons. They have a good sense of right and wrong. They do have a conscience.
And, I might quickly add, I believe that their religious formation is crucial, absolutely crucial, in forming their conscience, which will shape them as persons.
But even with a well-formed conscience and strong moral fiber, it can still be very difficult and challenging for them to make good choices when the “group think” or “cool thing” is constantly before their eyes.
Fire, Baptism and Division
This, my friends, is precisely what today’s Gospel addresses.
Jesus speaks of three things: fire, baptism and division.
Fire is a Scriptural image for judgment or decision.
Jesus is saying that he and the values he stands for lead us to having to make decisions everyday. In our daily lives we repeatedly must decide to do what it right or wrong, to make a choice for him or against him.
Then Jesus talks about a baptism. Here he is not talking about being baptized with water.
Rather, the word refers to being immersed in something, and Jesus is talking about being immersed in suffering. The idea is that our choices will not always be easy, and our choices will sometimes entail a degree of discomfort and suffering.
And finally, Jesus talks in the Gospel about division. The point he is making is that sometimes our choices will separate us from others we are close to.
Jesus heightens the tension by talking about division in our families and that may happen, but more than likely it will a division from our peers or from society in general.
So, “fire or decision,” “baptism or suffering,” and “division or separation” – Jesus tells us that following him, espousing his values, may well challenge us in these ways.
The Church and the Gospel
We can see this getting played out for our youth as I mentioned when I began, and we can also see this on the level of our Church and our society.
Our Church, the Catholic Church, teaches a consistent ethic of life – a consistent ethic of life.
We believe that human life is a gift from God. It is sacred and we are to treat it as such. We are not to injure or destroy human life.
Thus, true to its “consistent ethic” the Church teaches against embryonic stem cell research. Other stem cell research of course is fine and should be supported.
It holds hope for dealing with some terrible afflictions, like spinal cord injuries or Parkinson’s disease. But, the Church says, embryonic stem cell research involves the killing of a living embryo and that is simply wrong.
The embryo is the beginning of human life and we cannot take this life. The end – medical breakthroughs – does not justify the means – the taking of human life.
Today, our Church teaches against the death penalty. The position is that we do not teach respect for human life by taking the life even of a person who has committed a serious crime.
There are other ways of protecting society and the common good. Even here, a consistent ethic of life.
And, over the centuries, our Church has developed a careful position on war and what justifies war. The Church knows that warfare always involves the taking of life and so we have to be careful when and how to engage in war.
On this basis, Pope John Paul urged our country not to go to war in Iraq. Again, the consistent ethic of life at work once again.
Conclusion
So, fire: decisions, choices that our youth, that we as adults or that we as a society have to make about following the way of the Lord.
Baptism: immersion in a bath of suffering that can follow from our choices; and division: standing apart, distance, separation from those around us because of these choices.
That is the kind of in-your-face, challenging message that the Lord Jesus gives us today.
Our Lady of Grace
August 19, 2007
Focus: Jesus brings division
Function: To have the hearer reassert his/her identity as a Catholic
Fire, Baptism, and Division
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Youth and the Gospel
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak one-on-one with a number of our youth.
These are high school age teenagers and they are attending a variety of schools, both public and Catholic. One of my learnings from these conversations is the challenge our youth are facing today.
They have the opportunity to experiment with drugs – with smoking pot and trying other more dangerous selections. They have the opportunity to drink beer and other alcoholic beverages. And they have the temptation to engage in sexual activity.
It is also clear to me that so many of our youth are very good persons. They have a good sense of right and wrong. They do have a conscience.
And, I might quickly add, I believe that their religious formation is crucial, absolutely crucial, in forming their conscience, which will shape them as persons.
But even with a well-formed conscience and strong moral fiber, it can still be very difficult and challenging for them to make good choices when the “group think” or “cool thing” is constantly before their eyes.
Fire, Baptism and Division
This, my friends, is precisely what today’s Gospel addresses.
Jesus speaks of three things: fire, baptism and division.
Fire is a Scriptural image for judgment or decision.
Jesus is saying that he and the values he stands for lead us to having to make decisions everyday. In our daily lives we repeatedly must decide to do what it right or wrong, to make a choice for him or against him.
Then Jesus talks about a baptism. Here he is not talking about being baptized with water.
Rather, the word refers to being immersed in something, and Jesus is talking about being immersed in suffering. The idea is that our choices will not always be easy, and our choices will sometimes entail a degree of discomfort and suffering.
And finally, Jesus talks in the Gospel about division. The point he is making is that sometimes our choices will separate us from others we are close to.
Jesus heightens the tension by talking about division in our families and that may happen, but more than likely it will a division from our peers or from society in general.
So, “fire or decision,” “baptism or suffering,” and “division or separation” – Jesus tells us that following him, espousing his values, may well challenge us in these ways.
The Church and the Gospel
We can see this getting played out for our youth as I mentioned when I began, and we can also see this on the level of our Church and our society.
Our Church, the Catholic Church, teaches a consistent ethic of life – a consistent ethic of life.
We believe that human life is a gift from God. It is sacred and we are to treat it as such. We are not to injure or destroy human life.
Thus, true to its “consistent ethic” the Church teaches against embryonic stem cell research. Other stem cell research of course is fine and should be supported.
It holds hope for dealing with some terrible afflictions, like spinal cord injuries or Parkinson’s disease. But, the Church says, embryonic stem cell research involves the killing of a living embryo and that is simply wrong.
The embryo is the beginning of human life and we cannot take this life. The end – medical breakthroughs – does not justify the means – the taking of human life.
Today, our Church teaches against the death penalty. The position is that we do not teach respect for human life by taking the life even of a person who has committed a serious crime.
There are other ways of protecting society and the common good. Even here, a consistent ethic of life.
And, over the centuries, our Church has developed a careful position on war and what justifies war. The Church knows that warfare always involves the taking of life and so we have to be careful when and how to engage in war.
On this basis, Pope John Paul urged our country not to go to war in Iraq. Again, the consistent ethic of life at work once again.
Conclusion
So, fire: decisions, choices that our youth, that we as adults or that we as a society have to make about following the way of the Lord.
Baptism: immersion in a bath of suffering that can follow from our choices; and division: standing apart, distance, separation from those around us because of these choices.
That is the kind of in-your-face, challenging message that the Lord Jesus gives us today.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for August 12, 2007: God Said No!
August 9, 2007
Focus: God said no!
Dear Friend,
A parishioner sent me the following.
I must admit I have never heard God say, “No!”
I hope you are enjoying these final weeks of summer.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
God Said NO!
I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
His spirit is whole; his body is only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings; happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me love others, as much as he loves me.
God said, “Ah, finally you have the idea!”
Focus: God said no!
Dear Friend,
A parishioner sent me the following.
I must admit I have never heard God say, “No!”
I hope you are enjoying these final weeks of summer.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
God Said NO!
I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
His spirit is whole; his body is only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings; happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me love others, as much as he loves me.
God said, “Ah, finally you have the idea!”
Weekly THIS AND THAT for August 12, 2007: The Church in America
This and That:
“The Church in America”
Dear friends,
I read the following from a book entitled: “The Future of the American Church.” When I searched its author I came up with several individuals who had authored a book by the same title. So, while I cannot give you the correct author, I do believe the following thoughts have something to say to us as Roman Catholics.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
The overriding gift of the Catholic Church in America is that it is honestly in search of authentic spiritual authority. That may seem rather strange for a people who want to consider themselves freethinking, self-determined and highly democratic people. And yet that is probably the very reason we are on such a desperate search. Our very individualism has given us a profound need for Someone else to trust. Our self-centered lifestyles drive us back to a center which is in fact the Center. Our freedom from earthly rulers leaves us free to desire a worthy Lordship.
Maybe we say it differently than the past tradition would have, but we would not fuss and bother with all of the symbols of spiritual or temporal office if we did not deeply desire a true spiritual authority that could truly unite us around common values, virtues and common good. Obviously and rightly it is a longing for God. Our fierce independence and healthy mistrust of authority for its own sake put our American Church into a position to help the universal Church uncover and trust real spiritual authority. That authority is based in inherent truth and radical gospel – instead of limited appeals to right, power philosophy and parental put-downs like, “Because I said so, that’s why!”
The spiritual authority that the Church in America seeks is pragmatic authority that achieves its purpose. We cannot trust authority that claims to speak for God, but does not achieve spiritual ends: Does it heal, forgive, reconcile, mend, restore, renew, enliven, awaken, integrate and validate the deepest human intuitions? Does it renew marriage relationships? Does it reconcile countries? Does it fill people with real hope and tangible joy? Is it an authority that is capable of self-criticism and seeking Kingdom values beyond self-congratulation and self-preservation?
As Jesus clearly taught us, we could distinguish the true and false prophets by one simple criterion: their fruits. The American Catholic is too independent, honest and commonsense to bow before ascribed and acquired authority when it is not also real authority.
And what is real authority? Leadership and membership both owe one another holiness. That is the full authority of the Body of Christ.
“The Church in America”
Dear friends,
I read the following from a book entitled: “The Future of the American Church.” When I searched its author I came up with several individuals who had authored a book by the same title. So, while I cannot give you the correct author, I do believe the following thoughts have something to say to us as Roman Catholics.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
The overriding gift of the Catholic Church in America is that it is honestly in search of authentic spiritual authority. That may seem rather strange for a people who want to consider themselves freethinking, self-determined and highly democratic people. And yet that is probably the very reason we are on such a desperate search. Our very individualism has given us a profound need for Someone else to trust. Our self-centered lifestyles drive us back to a center which is in fact the Center. Our freedom from earthly rulers leaves us free to desire a worthy Lordship.
Maybe we say it differently than the past tradition would have, but we would not fuss and bother with all of the symbols of spiritual or temporal office if we did not deeply desire a true spiritual authority that could truly unite us around common values, virtues and common good. Obviously and rightly it is a longing for God. Our fierce independence and healthy mistrust of authority for its own sake put our American Church into a position to help the universal Church uncover and trust real spiritual authority. That authority is based in inherent truth and radical gospel – instead of limited appeals to right, power philosophy and parental put-downs like, “Because I said so, that’s why!”
The spiritual authority that the Church in America seeks is pragmatic authority that achieves its purpose. We cannot trust authority that claims to speak for God, but does not achieve spiritual ends: Does it heal, forgive, reconcile, mend, restore, renew, enliven, awaken, integrate and validate the deepest human intuitions? Does it renew marriage relationships? Does it reconcile countries? Does it fill people with real hope and tangible joy? Is it an authority that is capable of self-criticism and seeking Kingdom values beyond self-congratulation and self-preservation?
As Jesus clearly taught us, we could distinguish the true and false prophets by one simple criterion: their fruits. The American Catholic is too independent, honest and commonsense to bow before ascribed and acquired authority when it is not also real authority.
And what is real authority? Leadership and membership both owe one another holiness. That is the full authority of the Body of Christ.
Weekly HOMILY for August 12, 2007: Faith -- Assurance and Conviction
19th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
August 12, 2007
Faith: Assurance and Conviction
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Trust Not Clarity
Back in the early 1990’s, a priest named John Kavanaugh went to Calcutta to spend a month working at Mother Teresa’s “House of the Dying.”
Father Kavanaugh was seeking a clear answer to his future and whether to remain a priest. On his first morning there, he met Mother Teresa.
She asked, “What can I do for you?” He asked her to pray for him.
Mother Teresa asked, “What do you want me to pray for?” Father Kavanaugh responded, “Pray that I have clarity.”
Mother Teresa responded, “No!” When Kavanaugh asked why, she said that clarity was the last thing he was holding on to, and he needed to let go of it.
Father Kavanaugh responded that she always seemed to have clarity. Mother Teresa laughed and said, “I have never had clarity; what I’ve always had is trust.
“So I will pray that you trust.”
Faith as Trust
That experience significantly changed John Kavanaugh’s life.
Mother Teresa’s emphasis on trust is at the very core of our faith and we hear this in today’s second reading. The inspired writer gives us a wonderful description, almost a definition of faith.
The writer says, “Faith is confidant assurance [hands on chest in gesture of calmness] about what we hope for [point out to assembly], and conviction [2 fists moved downward] about things we do not see [cover eyes].”
You will notice that there are two dimensions to faith expressed here.
First, faith is trusting assurance [hands on chest in gesture of calmness] about what is not present, but awaited or hoped for [point out to assembly]. And second, faith is trusting conviction [2 fists moved downward] about what is present, but not seen [cover eyes].”
Let’s take a look at both of these.
1. Assurance: Not Present, but Awaited
First, faith is trusting assurance about what is not present, but hoped for.
The Letter to the Hebrews gives us Abraham as a wonderful model of this. Abraham and Sarah had lives as Bedouin nomads probably in what is now Iraq, but at God’s calling, they set out on a journey to an unknown land.
They were advanced in years, but they awaited the fulfillment of God’s promise of a child. Note, they had a trusting assurance in what was not present, but hoped for.
In our lives, we need – and can have – this same kind of faith.
At the very beginning, a child must leave the safety of the womb to be born into an unknown world. At the very end, we must let go of this life and move into a new life with God.
And in between birth and death, we must leave home and board a bus for the first day of school or the first day of college, or we must go from one job to another, or we must leave behind one habit or one mindset and adopt another.
We are constantly called to have this kind of faith, this trusting assurance in what is not present, but hoped for.
2. Conviction: Present, but Not Seen
Secondly, faith is also a conviction about what is present, but not seen.
Faith is a conviction that:
➢ That there is a Creator from whom we come and in whom we live and move and have our being.
➢ That God is a Father who cares and that we always have a home to go to.
➢ That God became human and that the chasm between God and us has been spanned. It is a conviction that because the Son of God suffered and died, nothing can now overwhelm us.
➢ That because Jesus Christ rose from the dead, life is not futile. It is a conviction that everything we do has meaning and value.
➢ Faith is a conviction that the Holy Spirit is present to us in the Church, in the Sacraments, in the Communion of Saints and in the forgiveness of sins.
➢ It is a conviction that all of us are members of God’s family and are to support one another in our journey.
It can be summed in the fact that Faith is this conviction in what is present, but not seen.
Conclusion
Mother Teresa got it right when she said that, “Faith is not so much clarity, as it is trust.”
Yes, it is a trusting assurance about what is not present, but hoped for…
and a trusting conviction about what is present, but not seen.
With that understanding, we proclaim our Profession of Faith with a whole new awareness.
We believe in God, the Father Almighty …
Our Lady of Grace
August 12, 2007
Faith: Assurance and Conviction
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Trust Not Clarity
Back in the early 1990’s, a priest named John Kavanaugh went to Calcutta to spend a month working at Mother Teresa’s “House of the Dying.”
Father Kavanaugh was seeking a clear answer to his future and whether to remain a priest. On his first morning there, he met Mother Teresa.
She asked, “What can I do for you?” He asked her to pray for him.
Mother Teresa asked, “What do you want me to pray for?” Father Kavanaugh responded, “Pray that I have clarity.”
Mother Teresa responded, “No!” When Kavanaugh asked why, she said that clarity was the last thing he was holding on to, and he needed to let go of it.
Father Kavanaugh responded that she always seemed to have clarity. Mother Teresa laughed and said, “I have never had clarity; what I’ve always had is trust.
“So I will pray that you trust.”
Faith as Trust
That experience significantly changed John Kavanaugh’s life.
Mother Teresa’s emphasis on trust is at the very core of our faith and we hear this in today’s second reading. The inspired writer gives us a wonderful description, almost a definition of faith.
The writer says, “Faith is confidant assurance [hands on chest in gesture of calmness] about what we hope for [point out to assembly], and conviction [2 fists moved downward] about things we do not see [cover eyes].”
You will notice that there are two dimensions to faith expressed here.
First, faith is trusting assurance [hands on chest in gesture of calmness] about what is not present, but awaited or hoped for [point out to assembly]. And second, faith is trusting conviction [2 fists moved downward] about what is present, but not seen [cover eyes].”
Let’s take a look at both of these.
1. Assurance: Not Present, but Awaited
First, faith is trusting assurance about what is not present, but hoped for.
The Letter to the Hebrews gives us Abraham as a wonderful model of this. Abraham and Sarah had lives as Bedouin nomads probably in what is now Iraq, but at God’s calling, they set out on a journey to an unknown land.
They were advanced in years, but they awaited the fulfillment of God’s promise of a child. Note, they had a trusting assurance in what was not present, but hoped for.
In our lives, we need – and can have – this same kind of faith.
At the very beginning, a child must leave the safety of the womb to be born into an unknown world. At the very end, we must let go of this life and move into a new life with God.
And in between birth and death, we must leave home and board a bus for the first day of school or the first day of college, or we must go from one job to another, or we must leave behind one habit or one mindset and adopt another.
We are constantly called to have this kind of faith, this trusting assurance in what is not present, but hoped for.
2. Conviction: Present, but Not Seen
Secondly, faith is also a conviction about what is present, but not seen.
Faith is a conviction that:
➢ That there is a Creator from whom we come and in whom we live and move and have our being.
➢ That God is a Father who cares and that we always have a home to go to.
➢ That God became human and that the chasm between God and us has been spanned. It is a conviction that because the Son of God suffered and died, nothing can now overwhelm us.
➢ That because Jesus Christ rose from the dead, life is not futile. It is a conviction that everything we do has meaning and value.
➢ Faith is a conviction that the Holy Spirit is present to us in the Church, in the Sacraments, in the Communion of Saints and in the forgiveness of sins.
➢ It is a conviction that all of us are members of God’s family and are to support one another in our journey.
It can be summed in the fact that Faith is this conviction in what is present, but not seen.
Conclusion
Mother Teresa got it right when she said that, “Faith is not so much clarity, as it is trust.”
Yes, it is a trusting assurance about what is not present, but hoped for…
and a trusting conviction about what is present, but not seen.
With that understanding, we proclaim our Profession of Faith with a whole new awareness.
We believe in God, the Father Almighty …
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for August 5, 2007: To Live or to Die?
August 2, 2007
Focus: To live or to die?
Dear Friend,
I am in the midst of experiencing a dear friend watching his beloved wife die. They have a marvelous marriage with two young beautiful children and as spouses they truly are “two hearts that beat as one.” While they are one, they also have maintained their separate and distinct identities.
Let’s call him Barry and her Maggie and say that Barry’s struggle is to hope against hope, as he has done for several years, to never give up as the cancer in Maggie’s body grows ever more invasive. Maggie for her part has “fought the good fight; run the race” and wants to be at peace.
“To stay” or “to go,” what a difficult decision to make! Let us pray for all individuals who are faced with life and death issues; let us pray also for ourselves, for their families and their caregivers.
“Hail Mary…pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: To live or to die?
Dear Friend,
I am in the midst of experiencing a dear friend watching his beloved wife die. They have a marvelous marriage with two young beautiful children and as spouses they truly are “two hearts that beat as one.” While they are one, they also have maintained their separate and distinct identities.
Let’s call him Barry and her Maggie and say that Barry’s struggle is to hope against hope, as he has done for several years, to never give up as the cancer in Maggie’s body grows ever more invasive. Maggie for her part has “fought the good fight; run the race” and wants to be at peace.
“To stay” or “to go,” what a difficult decision to make! Let us pray for all individuals who are faced with life and death issues; let us pray also for ourselves, for their families and their caregivers.
“Hail Mary…pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for August 5, 2007: 7 Reasons Not to Mess with Children
This and That:
7 Reasons Not to Mess with Children
Reason #1:
A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales. The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small. The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale. Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible. The little girl said, “When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah.” The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?” The little girl replied, “Then you ask him “.
Reason #2:
A Kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they were drawing. She would occasionally walk around to see each child’s work. As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was. The girl replied, “I’m drawing God.” The teacher paused and said, “But no one knows what God looks like.” Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, “They will in a minute.”
Reason #3:
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds. After explaining the commandment to “honor” thy Father and thy Mother, she asked, “Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?” Without missing a beat one little boy (the oldest of a family) answered, “Thou shall not kill.”
Reason #4:
One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head. She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, “Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?” Her mother replied, “Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white.” The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, “Momma, how come ALL of grandma’s hairs are white?”
Reason #5:
The children had all been photographed, and the teacher was trying to persuade them each to buy a copy of the group picture. “Just think how nice it will be to look at it when you are all grown up and say, ‘There’s Jennifer, she’s a lawyer,’ or ‘That’s Michael, He’s a doctor.’ A small voice at the back of the room rang out, “And there’s the teacher, she’s dead.”
Reason #6:
A teacher was giving a lesson on the circulation of the blood. Trying to make the matter clearer, she said, “Now, class, if I stood on my head, the blood, as you know, would run into it, and I would turn red in the face.” “Yes,” the class said. “Then why is it that while I am standing upright in the ordinary position the blood doesn’t run into my feet?” A little fellow shouted, “Cause your feet ain’ t empty.”
Reason #7:
The children were lined up in the cafeteria of a Catholic elementary school for lunch. At the head of the table was a large pile of apples. The nun made a note, and posted on the apple tray: “Take only ONE. God is watching.” Moving further along the lunch line, at the other end of the table was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies. A child had written a note, “Take all you want. God is watching the apples.”
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
7 Reasons Not to Mess with Children
Reason #1:
A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales. The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small. The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale. Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible. The little girl said, “When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah.” The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?” The little girl replied, “Then you ask him “.
Reason #2:
A Kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they were drawing. She would occasionally walk around to see each child’s work. As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was. The girl replied, “I’m drawing God.” The teacher paused and said, “But no one knows what God looks like.” Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, “They will in a minute.”
Reason #3:
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds. After explaining the commandment to “honor” thy Father and thy Mother, she asked, “Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?” Without missing a beat one little boy (the oldest of a family) answered, “Thou shall not kill.”
Reason #4:
One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head. She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, “Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?” Her mother replied, “Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white.” The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, “Momma, how come ALL of grandma’s hairs are white?”
Reason #5:
The children had all been photographed, and the teacher was trying to persuade them each to buy a copy of the group picture. “Just think how nice it will be to look at it when you are all grown up and say, ‘There’s Jennifer, she’s a lawyer,’ or ‘That’s Michael, He’s a doctor.’ A small voice at the back of the room rang out, “And there’s the teacher, she’s dead.”
Reason #6:
A teacher was giving a lesson on the circulation of the blood. Trying to make the matter clearer, she said, “Now, class, if I stood on my head, the blood, as you know, would run into it, and I would turn red in the face.” “Yes,” the class said. “Then why is it that while I am standing upright in the ordinary position the blood doesn’t run into my feet?” A little fellow shouted, “Cause your feet ain’ t empty.”
Reason #7:
The children were lined up in the cafeteria of a Catholic elementary school for lunch. At the head of the table was a large pile of apples. The nun made a note, and posted on the apple tray: “Take only ONE. God is watching.” Moving further along the lunch line, at the other end of the table was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies. A child had written a note, “Take all you want. God is watching the apples.”
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly HOMILY for August 5,2007: Sayings on Money and Material Possessions
18th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
August 5, 2007
Sayings on Money and Material Possessions
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Some Sayings
This past week, I came across a number of sayings dealing with our attitudes toward money and material possessions.
These sayings relate to the Scripture passages that we just heard, so I decided to group my thoughts for today around these sayings.
Taken together, they convey a lot of insight and wisdom. There are two sayings of our culture and two sayings of our faith.
As I share them see which of the four you have personally made your own.
Saying of Culture: I Am What I Have
The first saying of our culture is: “I am what I have.” The significant thing here is the word “I.”
“I am what I have.” We see this emphasis on the word “I” in the Parable of the Rich Man in today’s Gospel.
The rich man says: “What shall I do? I have no place to store my harvest. I know. I will pull down my grain bins and have larger ones. Then I will say to myself: you have blessings in reserve. Enjoy yourself.”
The entire focus in this saying – “I am what I have” – and in the Parable of the Rich Man is on the word “I”.
If this is a saying we resonate with or which we have made our own then we need to be aware that being self-absorbed in things – any things – does not make us who we are as persons.
I simply am not my car, my job, my spouse.
Saying of Culture: More Is Better
A second saying of our culture is: “More is better.”
Our consumerist economy leads us to think that more money, more clothes, more furniture, more toys, or a bigger house is better.
This mentality has contributed to the fact that we will never have enough storage space as we build and use more and more storage facilities everywhere. This saying deceives us into thinking that things can satisfy us.
“More is better” gives us no norm for deciding what we should and should not have other, than having more.
If this saying rings true for us, we need to be aware of it and recognize that whatever latest new thing we have amassed does not give us lasting satisfaction.
Saying of Faith: Hearse Pulling a U-Hall
In contrast to these sayings of our culture, there are also two sayings of our faith. Try these on for size, as well.
The first is humorously stated as: “Have you ever seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul?” Think about it…of course you haven’t, the dead can’t take anything with them.
Now of course, that saying is not in the Bible, but in truth, it is another way of making the same point that Jesus does in today’s Parable of the Rich Man. He asks: “To whom will all this piled-up wealth of yours go?”
Being so focused on what we have keeps us from being aware of our long-term destiny.
To those of us who really think we can take it with us in a U-Haul, the Wisdom writer in our first reading rather cynically says: “Vanity of vanities! All these things are vanity!”
Saying of Culture: It Will Never Be Enough Until You Are Enough
Finally, the last saying actually comes from Chinese spirituality, but it is very Christian in nature. The saying is: “It [out there] will never be enough until you [in here] are enough.”
The underlying point here is clear: who we are and who we become as persons is what counts in life. This is what Jesus means in today’s Gospel when he tells us to “become rich in the sight of God.”
It is what St. Paul means in our second reading when he calls us “to set our hearts on what pertains to higher realms.”
To those of us who resonate with this final saying, we must focus on two things to become “rich in the sight of God” and to “set our hearts on higher realms.”
First, we need to look beyond ourselves to include caring for family, friends or those at work in our everyday awareness.
So we need to make some room in our schedule or our budget for caring for those who lack the very basics. Looking beyond ourselves is what it takes.
And second, we need to look beyond this world, thinking about God and Jesus Christ each day.
So we let prayer punctuate our day. We reflect on Scripture. We receive the Eucharist each Sunday.
Looking beyond ourselves and beyond our world helps us become like Jesus.
And we come to understand this last saying, “It [out there] will never be enough until you [in here] are enough.”
Conclusion
Our attitudes toward money and possessions tell us a great deal about what is lacking in our lives as followers of Jesus and what needs to be done about those lacks.
Our Lady of Grace
August 5, 2007
Sayings on Money and Material Possessions
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Some Sayings
This past week, I came across a number of sayings dealing with our attitudes toward money and material possessions.
These sayings relate to the Scripture passages that we just heard, so I decided to group my thoughts for today around these sayings.
Taken together, they convey a lot of insight and wisdom. There are two sayings of our culture and two sayings of our faith.
As I share them see which of the four you have personally made your own.
Saying of Culture: I Am What I Have
The first saying of our culture is: “I am what I have.” The significant thing here is the word “I.”
“I am what I have.” We see this emphasis on the word “I” in the Parable of the Rich Man in today’s Gospel.
The rich man says: “What shall I do? I have no place to store my harvest. I know. I will pull down my grain bins and have larger ones. Then I will say to myself: you have blessings in reserve. Enjoy yourself.”
The entire focus in this saying – “I am what I have” – and in the Parable of the Rich Man is on the word “I”.
If this is a saying we resonate with or which we have made our own then we need to be aware that being self-absorbed in things – any things – does not make us who we are as persons.
I simply am not my car, my job, my spouse.
Saying of Culture: More Is Better
A second saying of our culture is: “More is better.”
Our consumerist economy leads us to think that more money, more clothes, more furniture, more toys, or a bigger house is better.
This mentality has contributed to the fact that we will never have enough storage space as we build and use more and more storage facilities everywhere. This saying deceives us into thinking that things can satisfy us.
“More is better” gives us no norm for deciding what we should and should not have other, than having more.
If this saying rings true for us, we need to be aware of it and recognize that whatever latest new thing we have amassed does not give us lasting satisfaction.
Saying of Faith: Hearse Pulling a U-Hall
In contrast to these sayings of our culture, there are also two sayings of our faith. Try these on for size, as well.
The first is humorously stated as: “Have you ever seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul?” Think about it…of course you haven’t, the dead can’t take anything with them.
Now of course, that saying is not in the Bible, but in truth, it is another way of making the same point that Jesus does in today’s Parable of the Rich Man. He asks: “To whom will all this piled-up wealth of yours go?”
Being so focused on what we have keeps us from being aware of our long-term destiny.
To those of us who really think we can take it with us in a U-Haul, the Wisdom writer in our first reading rather cynically says: “Vanity of vanities! All these things are vanity!”
Saying of Culture: It Will Never Be Enough Until You Are Enough
Finally, the last saying actually comes from Chinese spirituality, but it is very Christian in nature. The saying is: “It [out there] will never be enough until you [in here] are enough.”
The underlying point here is clear: who we are and who we become as persons is what counts in life. This is what Jesus means in today’s Gospel when he tells us to “become rich in the sight of God.”
It is what St. Paul means in our second reading when he calls us “to set our hearts on what pertains to higher realms.”
To those of us who resonate with this final saying, we must focus on two things to become “rich in the sight of God” and to “set our hearts on higher realms.”
First, we need to look beyond ourselves to include caring for family, friends or those at work in our everyday awareness.
So we need to make some room in our schedule or our budget for caring for those who lack the very basics. Looking beyond ourselves is what it takes.
And second, we need to look beyond this world, thinking about God and Jesus Christ each day.
So we let prayer punctuate our day. We reflect on Scripture. We receive the Eucharist each Sunday.
Looking beyond ourselves and beyond our world helps us become like Jesus.
And we come to understand this last saying, “It [out there] will never be enough until you [in here] are enough.”
Conclusion
Our attitudes toward money and possessions tell us a great deal about what is lacking in our lives as followers of Jesus and what needs to be done about those lacks.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for July 29, 2007: Back from Mepkin Abbey
July 26, 2007
Focus: Mepkin Abbey
Dear Friend,
Have you ever visited a place you have never been, but in some strange way feel like you are “home”? I have this past week.
It may have been the 300-year-old Oaks laden with Spanish Moss that lined the half-mile driveway of the entrance. It may have been the warmth and hospitality of Fr. Guerric as he showed me my “cell” for the week’s retreat. It may have been the beautiful grounds, the stark look and warm wood of the Abbey church. Who knows what it was, but “arriving home” is how I felt.
Mepkin Abbey will be my home for 3 months beginning January 3, 2008 where I will live as a Trappist monk. It was suggested that I come for a week’s retreat to get a sense of things and to see if I’d like it for an extended period of time.
What struck me most was how much an environment of silence (no talking except when praying the Divine Office), intense prayer (7 times a day), simple food (vegetarians, lots of “bread and cheese” for breakfast and supper), and spiritual reading will do for an individual’s spiritual life. It was a very satisfying time. I did get a chance to see where I’d be working five hours a day. It was in the egg factory where eggs are sorted, cleaned and packaged for market. It’s in this way that the monks provide an income for the Abbey. Other jobs would include gardening, tours, kitchen, and the gift shop.
It was good to get a firsthand experience of monastic life. And while I am a relatively outgoing sort of fellow, it did have a wonderful appeal for me.
The homily this week is one I worked on with a friend. I will not be giving it this weekend. Our deacon, Lee Benson, will be preaching instead. I will nevertheless put it up on the parish webpage and on my blog as an mp3 audio file.
Best regards,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: Mepkin Abbey
Dear Friend,
Have you ever visited a place you have never been, but in some strange way feel like you are “home”? I have this past week.
It may have been the 300-year-old Oaks laden with Spanish Moss that lined the half-mile driveway of the entrance. It may have been the warmth and hospitality of Fr. Guerric as he showed me my “cell” for the week’s retreat. It may have been the beautiful grounds, the stark look and warm wood of the Abbey church. Who knows what it was, but “arriving home” is how I felt.
Mepkin Abbey will be my home for 3 months beginning January 3, 2008 where I will live as a Trappist monk. It was suggested that I come for a week’s retreat to get a sense of things and to see if I’d like it for an extended period of time.
What struck me most was how much an environment of silence (no talking except when praying the Divine Office), intense prayer (7 times a day), simple food (vegetarians, lots of “bread and cheese” for breakfast and supper), and spiritual reading will do for an individual’s spiritual life. It was a very satisfying time. I did get a chance to see where I’d be working five hours a day. It was in the egg factory where eggs are sorted, cleaned and packaged for market. It’s in this way that the monks provide an income for the Abbey. Other jobs would include gardening, tours, kitchen, and the gift shop.
It was good to get a firsthand experience of monastic life. And while I am a relatively outgoing sort of fellow, it did have a wonderful appeal for me.
The homily this week is one I worked on with a friend. I will not be giving it this weekend. Our deacon, Lee Benson, will be preaching instead. I will nevertheless put it up on the parish webpage and on my blog as an mp3 audio file.
Best regards,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for July 29, 2007: Worry -- A Torch Passed from Generation to Generation
This and That:
Worry: A Torch Passed from Generation to Generation
Recently a friend shared the follow reflection on parental worrying. It struck a chord in me as being right on the mark.
Fondly,
Father Nick
Is there a magic cutoff period when offspring become accountable for their own actions? Is there a wonderful moment when parents can become detached spectators in the lives of their children and shrug, “It’s their life,” and feel nothing?
When I was in my twenties, I stood in a hospital corridor waiting for doctors to put a few stitches in my son’s head. I asked, “When do you stop worrying?” The nurse said, “When they get out of the accident stage.” My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.
When I was in my thirties, I sat on a little chair in a classroom and heard how one of my children talked incessantly, disrupted the class, and was headed for a career making license plates. As if to read my mind, a teacher said, “Don’t worry, they all go through this stage and then you can sit back, relax and enjoy them.” My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.
When I was in my forties, I spent a lifetime waiting for the phone to ring, the cars to come home, the front door to open. A friend said, “They’re trying to find themselves. Don’t worry, in a few years, you can stop worrying. They’ll be adults.” My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.
By the time I was 50, I was sick and tired of being vulnerable. I was still worrying over my children, but there was a new wrinkle. There was nothing I could do about it. My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing. I continued to anguish over their failures, be tormented by their frustrations and absorbed in their disappointments.
My friends said that when my kids got married I could stop worrying and lead my own life. I wanted to believe that, but I was haunted by my mother’s warm smile and her occasional, “You look pale. Are you a all right? Call me the minute you get home. Are you depressed about something?”
Can it be that parents are sentenced to a lifetime of worry? Is concern for one another handed down like a torch to blaze the trail of human frailties and the fears of the unknown? Is concern a curse or is it a virtue that elevates us to the highest form of life?
One of my children became quite irritable recently, saying to me, “Where were you? I’ve been calling for 3 days, and no one answered I was worried.”
I smiled a warm smile. The torch has been passed.
Worry: A Torch Passed from Generation to Generation
Recently a friend shared the follow reflection on parental worrying. It struck a chord in me as being right on the mark.
Fondly,
Father Nick
Is there a magic cutoff period when offspring become accountable for their own actions? Is there a wonderful moment when parents can become detached spectators in the lives of their children and shrug, “It’s their life,” and feel nothing?
When I was in my twenties, I stood in a hospital corridor waiting for doctors to put a few stitches in my son’s head. I asked, “When do you stop worrying?” The nurse said, “When they get out of the accident stage.” My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.
When I was in my thirties, I sat on a little chair in a classroom and heard how one of my children talked incessantly, disrupted the class, and was headed for a career making license plates. As if to read my mind, a teacher said, “Don’t worry, they all go through this stage and then you can sit back, relax and enjoy them.” My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.
When I was in my forties, I spent a lifetime waiting for the phone to ring, the cars to come home, the front door to open. A friend said, “They’re trying to find themselves. Don’t worry, in a few years, you can stop worrying. They’ll be adults.” My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.
By the time I was 50, I was sick and tired of being vulnerable. I was still worrying over my children, but there was a new wrinkle. There was nothing I could do about it. My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing. I continued to anguish over their failures, be tormented by their frustrations and absorbed in their disappointments.
My friends said that when my kids got married I could stop worrying and lead my own life. I wanted to believe that, but I was haunted by my mother’s warm smile and her occasional, “You look pale. Are you a all right? Call me the minute you get home. Are you depressed about something?”
Can it be that parents are sentenced to a lifetime of worry? Is concern for one another handed down like a torch to blaze the trail of human frailties and the fears of the unknown? Is concern a curse or is it a virtue that elevates us to the highest form of life?
One of my children became quite irritable recently, saying to me, “Where were you? I’ve been calling for 3 days, and no one answered I was worried.”
I smiled a warm smile. The torch has been passed.
Weekly HOMILY for July 29, 2007: How to Pray
17th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
How to Pray
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
July 29, 2007
One Prayer
There is a story about an eight-year-old boy named Benjamin.
Benjamin really wanted a baby sister and he decided to write a prayer-letter to God. And this is what he wrote.
“Dear God, I’ve been a very good boy…” And then, Benjamin stopped, thinking that God would not be convinced by this argument.
And so, he began again: “Dear God, most of the time I’ve been good…” And again, Benjamin stopped, thinking that this just wasn’t strong enough.
After a few moments, Benjamin got up, took a towel out of the linen closet and spread it on a chair in the living room. Then, he walked over to the mantle above the fireplace and slowly lifted down the statue of Mary.
Very carefully, Benjamin placed the statue of Mary on the towel and wrapped it. He then carried it back to the dining room table and began his third attempt at writing his prayer-letter.
This time, he wrote: “Dear God, if you ever want to see your mother again…”
How to Pray
Obviously, little Benjamin really struggled with how to pray to God.
In today’s Gospel, the disciples ask Jesus: “Lord, teach us to pray.” This afternoon, I want to reflect with you on just the first two words of the prayer that Jesus teaches, the words “Our” and “Father.”
Theses words are rich in meaning and they guide us in how we are to pray.
“Father”
I start with the word “Father.”
In my ministry, I have heard some people say that it is difficult to pray to God as “Father.” They say this because their own father was either absent or not a good example.
Well, when Jesus teaches us to pray to God as “Father,” he is not projecting an earthly image of fatherhood onto God. Instead, he is doing the reverse – showing us from God what an earthly father and all of us are to be like.
When we pray to God as “Father,” we recognize God as the One who transcends and is beyond anything we can know or imagine. We are also recognizing God as our Creator, as the One who gives life to everything that is.
We recognize God as the divine source from which we all come and the divine goal to which we all will return. And then, in addition to the gift of our life, the word “Father” conveys that God is the source of all good.
After teaching this prayer, Jesus uses the comparison of an earthly father. He says that if we “give good things to our children, how much more will the Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
The idea here is that the gift of God is God himself. How often we say that it is important for parents not just to give things to their children, but to be there for them, to give themselves to their children!
Here Jesus is saying that God as “Father” is the model for this. He gives us the gift of himself and in fact, this is what prayer is all about – opening ourselves to receive this gift from God.
All of this is wrapped up in the one word “Father.”
“Our”
And then, there is the word “Our.”
In a sense, only Jesus is fully entitled to say “My Father.” As we say in our Creed, Jesus alone is “eternally begotten of the Father, God from God.”
The rest of us speak of God as “Our Father” because the rest of us have become God’s children in and through Jesus. And, unlike Jesus, we are not ready-made children of God.
We have to grow to become more and more God’s sons and daughters. We do this through prayer.
In our prayer, we grow in our inner relationship and communion with the “Father.” And we also do this by our oneness with each other.
This is the other meaning of the word “Our.” In praying “Our Father,” we recognize our relatedness or connection with one another.
We are also to live with this awareness. We are to live as part of God’s family in the Church and with care for all of God’s children, whether they are in or outside of the Church.
All of this is wrapped up in the one word “Our.”
Conclusion
So, Jesus teaches us to pray “Our Father.”
Those two words express a great deal about God, about us, about our relationship with God and about our relationship with one another.
They are the foundation for how we are to pray at all times.
Our Lady of Grace
How to Pray
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
July 29, 2007
One Prayer
There is a story about an eight-year-old boy named Benjamin.
Benjamin really wanted a baby sister and he decided to write a prayer-letter to God. And this is what he wrote.
“Dear God, I’ve been a very good boy…” And then, Benjamin stopped, thinking that God would not be convinced by this argument.
And so, he began again: “Dear God, most of the time I’ve been good…” And again, Benjamin stopped, thinking that this just wasn’t strong enough.
After a few moments, Benjamin got up, took a towel out of the linen closet and spread it on a chair in the living room. Then, he walked over to the mantle above the fireplace and slowly lifted down the statue of Mary.
Very carefully, Benjamin placed the statue of Mary on the towel and wrapped it. He then carried it back to the dining room table and began his third attempt at writing his prayer-letter.
This time, he wrote: “Dear God, if you ever want to see your mother again…”
How to Pray
Obviously, little Benjamin really struggled with how to pray to God.
In today’s Gospel, the disciples ask Jesus: “Lord, teach us to pray.” This afternoon, I want to reflect with you on just the first two words of the prayer that Jesus teaches, the words “Our” and “Father.”
Theses words are rich in meaning and they guide us in how we are to pray.
“Father”
I start with the word “Father.”
In my ministry, I have heard some people say that it is difficult to pray to God as “Father.” They say this because their own father was either absent or not a good example.
Well, when Jesus teaches us to pray to God as “Father,” he is not projecting an earthly image of fatherhood onto God. Instead, he is doing the reverse – showing us from God what an earthly father and all of us are to be like.
When we pray to God as “Father,” we recognize God as the One who transcends and is beyond anything we can know or imagine. We are also recognizing God as our Creator, as the One who gives life to everything that is.
We recognize God as the divine source from which we all come and the divine goal to which we all will return. And then, in addition to the gift of our life, the word “Father” conveys that God is the source of all good.
After teaching this prayer, Jesus uses the comparison of an earthly father. He says that if we “give good things to our children, how much more will the Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
The idea here is that the gift of God is God himself. How often we say that it is important for parents not just to give things to their children, but to be there for them, to give themselves to their children!
Here Jesus is saying that God as “Father” is the model for this. He gives us the gift of himself and in fact, this is what prayer is all about – opening ourselves to receive this gift from God.
All of this is wrapped up in the one word “Father.”
“Our”
And then, there is the word “Our.”
In a sense, only Jesus is fully entitled to say “My Father.” As we say in our Creed, Jesus alone is “eternally begotten of the Father, God from God.”
The rest of us speak of God as “Our Father” because the rest of us have become God’s children in and through Jesus. And, unlike Jesus, we are not ready-made children of God.
We have to grow to become more and more God’s sons and daughters. We do this through prayer.
In our prayer, we grow in our inner relationship and communion with the “Father.” And we also do this by our oneness with each other.
This is the other meaning of the word “Our.” In praying “Our Father,” we recognize our relatedness or connection with one another.
We are also to live with this awareness. We are to live as part of God’s family in the Church and with care for all of God’s children, whether they are in or outside of the Church.
All of this is wrapped up in the one word “Our.”
Conclusion
So, Jesus teaches us to pray “Our Father.”
Those two words express a great deal about God, about us, about our relationship with God and about our relationship with one another.
They are the foundation for how we are to pray at all times.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for July 15, 2007: Retreat at Mepkin Abbey
July 15, 2007
Focus: Retreat at Mepkin Abbey
Dear Friend,
As many of you know by now, the Cardinal has given me permission to take a six-month sabbatical for calendar year 2008. My plan is to live three months in a residency program at Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist Monastery in Monks Corner, South Carolina from January 3, 2008 to April 4, 2008 and then return to continue on as pastor of Our Lady of Grace. In September my plan is to spend three months at the Ecumenical Institute at Tantur, Israel. That should get me back to the parish by early December.
Each year priests of the Archdiocese make a one-week retreat and I have been doing that every June with my Clergy Support Group. This year however, there will be a difference. The Abbott at Mepkin Abbey suggested I spend week with the community as my weekly retreat to get a feel for the community. So on Monday I will drive 9½ hours to South Carolina to do just that. On the way home I will stop in North Carolina for a family reunion and to baptize my two new twin grandnieces.
All this is to say that I will not be sending you an email of the weekly message, This and That, and homily next week. See you back two weeks from today.
Have a good week.
Best regards,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: Retreat at Mepkin Abbey
Dear Friend,
As many of you know by now, the Cardinal has given me permission to take a six-month sabbatical for calendar year 2008. My plan is to live three months in a residency program at Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist Monastery in Monks Corner, South Carolina from January 3, 2008 to April 4, 2008 and then return to continue on as pastor of Our Lady of Grace. In September my plan is to spend three months at the Ecumenical Institute at Tantur, Israel. That should get me back to the parish by early December.
Each year priests of the Archdiocese make a one-week retreat and I have been doing that every June with my Clergy Support Group. This year however, there will be a difference. The Abbott at Mepkin Abbey suggested I spend week with the community as my weekly retreat to get a feel for the community. So on Monday I will drive 9½ hours to South Carolina to do just that. On the way home I will stop in North Carolina for a family reunion and to baptize my two new twin grandnieces.
All this is to say that I will not be sending you an email of the weekly message, This and That, and homily next week. See you back two weeks from today.
Have a good week.
Best regards,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for July 15, 2007: The Drama Ministry Moves Many Hearts
This and That:
The Drama Ministry at Our Lady of Grace Moves Many Hearts
Well it was another four-performance smash as The Youth Theatre of Northern Baltimore County did a production of Godspell. The following are some letters received from folks who attended one of the performances. If you do not think that a theatre production can make a difference in a person’s life in terms of his or her relationship with Jesus Christ, read on.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Dear Rev. Msgr. Nicholas Amato and Leaders of Our Lady of Grace Parish,
I just couldn’t go to bed this evening without thanking you for the beautiful gift of Godspell this afternoon. I got dragged to this show by a friend who raved after seeing it this past Thursday. I really didn’t want to come, but since I had turned this friend down on two previous invitations I felt compelled to be cooperative. Little did I know what a gift this invitation would become. To say the performance was incredible would not give it the justice it deserves. I for one, was stunned at the professionalism of what I saw onstage. Who would have thought it possible to inject this much vibrant exuberance and artistic imagination into a beloved old warhorse nearly done to respectable death by high schools and church groups for almost 30 years? I certainly would never have imagined a small rural theatre would have the ability to do what was done last evening. Godspell’s timeless message has always been about finding your quiet, unshakable faith amid a very loud, cold and shallow modern world. And anyone who did not find faith in last night’s performance must have been deaf, blind or asleep. Mary. Miller’s unbridled imagination revived Godspell’s freshness, humor and unapologetic decency. She deserves much credit for harnessing the incredible talents of this cast into a coherent whole. Her inventive twists couldn’t help but delight those of us overly familiar with the show. And to pull it off without overshadowing or diluting the sincere message of humanity, goodness, compassion and God’s love is simply ingenious. The ensemble – every last one a talented performer – exudes life, energy, humor and joy with full-throated voices that raise goose bumps a dozen times during the show. The young gentleman who sang “All Good Gifts” [Danny Baird] had me in tears. And the song, “Tower of Babble” had me speechless. Rarely do you see this song performed because of its difficulty. It is a very difficult song to play musically as well as sing, especially when you have 8 different parts with different words singing acapella. It was incredible! The entire production was unbelievably tight. I can easily see this production making lifelong theater and churchgoers, even for those of us lucky enough to get dragged to this show kicking and screaming. One last note about something that really touched my heart. I was sitting near the back and had the privilege of watching Mary Miller throughout the show. I watched her cheer her actors on, I watched her shed tears and watched her hug each and every actor as they came up for bows. What struck me most was the deep respect and genuine love that passed between her and each of the actors as they stepped up to receive her hug. I think for both of them that hug was more important than the bow. I hope Our Lady of Grace can truly appreciate what this woman has brought to your community. I don’t think any of us will ever realize exactly what a treasure she is or the value of what she has given.
Thank you for a wonderfully memorable evening which rejuvenated my passion for Christ and my commitment to be one of His disciples. Where do I get season tickets?
Dr. Steven Whiting
Dear Rev. Msgr. Amato and Mary Miller,
Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for Mary Miller and the Youth Theatre have done it again! By sharing, dancing, hoping, feeling, laughing and singing you traced the outline of life’s bounty and mystery. Ms. Miller I don’t know how you do it, but you were able to honestly, creatively and vividly translate Godspell without losing its basic simplicity, warmth, vigor and message. For the audience last night’s performance was a graceful free fall into life, laughter, and love. But most of all, it proves that we can be the happiest of all creatures if we will just dance to the rhythm of His word and our own comic songbook souls. The cast was brilliant, uniformly strong: talented, committed and infectiously endearing. Each and every one of them added something important to the show. John the Baptist was extraordinary and Jesus, well, what can I say, he was simply put – amazing. Mary Miller you are a blessing to us all. May God Bless you with health so we may enjoy many more Miller productions to come.
Sharon Timmons
Dear Father Nick,
This letter is about 5 months late but as they say “better late than never.” I just saw “Godspell” and was blown away at the talent and message of the show. But more importantly I wanted to share with you the impact Mary Miller and your theatre ministry has had on my life. First, a little background. More years ago than I care to admit to I walked away from church and became immersed in law enforcement. I found it was easier to deal with the criminal element than attempting to deal with the individual shades of grey found in the church pews. I found myself being drawn back to the church (St. John’s) in spite of my desires or my preference. At first it was simply to keep my wife happy. She had held steadfastly to the idea of having her husband sit beside her in church. My logic was it was worth giving up a few hours on Sunday morning to keep peace in the family. Well, the best laid plans of mice and men. There was one center point in my rebellion against God. I quit praying. It was an easy enough thing to stop. There were always other things to keep me occupied for the time I had normally set aside to pray. Even on Sundays I worked hard to ignore the preacher only allowing him into my conscious world on occasion. That is until I saw “Treasures of the Heart” this past December. This musical helped me to take a long hard look at my life and the many blessings that had been bestowed on me. After the show I spoke with Mary Miller, the director and thanked her for the beautiful words both spoken and sung in the musical. She was gracious, but gave the credit to God, thanking him for giving them to her. I encouraged her to take credit for her own words and she said the only credit she would take would be for listening when God spoke. It was obvious to me by the look in her eyes when she said this that she truly meant every word she had spoken. Frankly, her humility stunned me. Most people I know are eager to boast about their accomplishments. I asked her where this humility came from and she said, “Look at the cross.” That was it! That was what I needed to hear; what I was missing. The following Sunday as I sat with my wife trying to ignore the sermon being preached I took a good long look at the cross. And although I was able to somewhat tune out the sermon, I was not able to ignore that cross. Every Sunday after that I sat and stared at the large wooden cross mounted high in the front of the church. It was then that I finally found myself being drawn back into prayer. I’m not going to say it was easy because I kicked, I screamed, I fought and even became angry at the thought. But whatever I did I found myself talking to God. I didn’t know why. The one thing I did know was that I was being inexorably pulled back into a conversation with God. Deep down I knew I was being called home. It was then that I realized why Mary Miller’s musical touched me so deeply. It was because I had been homeless. I had been wandering aimlessly – hungry, cold, and yearning to find my way home. This past Friday evening, watching Godspell, I was once again motivated and inspired to be truer to God. I saw Mary Miller after the show once again and told her that the model of love for God that she is able to show for the youth of this theatre and for all of us in the community is so amazingly beautiful and stunning. What a gift she shares with us all. Once again she praised God for all of this. I have such awe and admiration for her, so much that it is far beyond my understanding. It went even further when someone told me that she suffers from a terminal illness. Thank you for allowing her to share this ministry with the poor souls of this world.
(Name withheld at the request of the writer)
Hello Ms. Miller,
This is Amy Woolf, your “tech goddess.” [Amy was in charge of lighting for the production.] I just wanted to thank you and everyone involved with Godspell so so much for everything they’ve done for me. I really feel like part of the family. This week has been scary and full of hospitals and doctors, except when I got to be with you and the cast. My father passed away peacefully this afternoon around 3:00pm, and although I am new to the OLG Theatre family, I cannot think of any other group of people I would rather be with. I feel like you have more ways than me to get in touch with the cast, so please tell them how much I love them and how loved they made me feel this week. This performance of Godspell will always be close to my heart, because my father’s cardiac arrest was Sunday morning, when I joined you, and he was at peace when Godspell was doing it’s final show. Thank you so much again, you have no idea what you’ve meant to me.
Amy Woolf
Dear Mary and Father Nick,
I attended last evening’s performance of Godspell as a part of the review process for the Kennedy Center. Once again, you have amazed us with your creative direction. What struck me even more than the musical was your relationship with the actors. It was very touching to see the love pass between you and the youth. Often times the directors we see are untouchable dictators. Your smile, warmth and obvious love for these actors warmed my heart. It must be an awesome experience being under your direction. I will report back to the review committee tomorrow with once again highest recommendations for having you direct “Treasures of the Heart” at the Kennedy Center for either the 2008-09 season or the 2009-10 season. There are still a few more committees to go through before final approval but you are well on your way. As you can imagine I have seen Godspell umpteen times and never have I seen it done so creatively. Great job! And kudos to the cast, production staff, backstage crew, and band. All around a magnificent job!
(Name withheld at the request of the writer)
Dear Father Nick,
I thought you should know what a wonderful time we had at the Godspell production this past week. We came Thursday night and bought tickets to return Saturday because we loved it so much. We saw last year’s show too which almost made us not buy tickets, but I’m glad we did. Mary was able to make this show very different than last year and the kids onstage were phenomenal. How does she do it with her health problems? Where does she find the energy to be there for all of us? Where does she find the strength to continue to motivate the entire community to follow in the Lords footsteps? I watched her as she hugged each and every one of those kids each night before bows. It brought a tear to my eye. It is obvious that they love her and she loves them. What an amazing combination. Thank you for allowing this ministry to take shape. No offense to you or anyone else but I think this ministry has affected the Our Lady of Grace Community more than just about anything else.
The Haus Family
Dear Youth Theatre of Northern Baltimore County,
All I can say is ….WOW!!! They say that God works in mysterious ways and last night was an example of this for me. It just so happened a friend I haven’t seen in awhile had an extra ticket to your performance last evening. This friend and I had been on the outs over something that now, as we look back, was pretty insignificant. I hesitated about coming because of this, but something compelled me to begrudgingly accept the invite. We didn’t speak much but polite exchanges in the lobby and took our seats with I must admit quite a bit of discomfort on my part. As I sat waiting for the show to start I began regretting my decision to come to the show. After all, I was sitting next to someone who had wronged me and it was “community theatre” so in my mind it was going to bomb!!! Boy was I surprised…it didn’t take more than 1 minute after curtains up before I was completely enthralled. Soon my friend and I were laughing, nudging each other and smiling. During intermission we gabbed like two school girls and the great divide that came between us fell apart. As we were standing in the lobby the director walked by and my friend caught her eye and told her what a wonderful job she had done with these beautifully talented children. She was very gracious but gave all the credit to God and the kids…taking little credit for herself. As she walked away another audience member told us of her long and continuing battle with cancer. Not only did this inspire us more, but it made both my friend and me realize what fools we had been. I write this email to thank Our Lady of Grace, Mary Miller, and all those beautifully talented children for reminding an old woman what it is that Jesus expects of us and how love should lead the way. Love certainly led the way last night and it is my hope it will for a long time to come.
Ethel Martin
The Drama Ministry at Our Lady of Grace Moves Many Hearts
Well it was another four-performance smash as The Youth Theatre of Northern Baltimore County did a production of Godspell. The following are some letters received from folks who attended one of the performances. If you do not think that a theatre production can make a difference in a person’s life in terms of his or her relationship with Jesus Christ, read on.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Dear Rev. Msgr. Nicholas Amato and Leaders of Our Lady of Grace Parish,
I just couldn’t go to bed this evening without thanking you for the beautiful gift of Godspell this afternoon. I got dragged to this show by a friend who raved after seeing it this past Thursday. I really didn’t want to come, but since I had turned this friend down on two previous invitations I felt compelled to be cooperative. Little did I know what a gift this invitation would become. To say the performance was incredible would not give it the justice it deserves. I for one, was stunned at the professionalism of what I saw onstage. Who would have thought it possible to inject this much vibrant exuberance and artistic imagination into a beloved old warhorse nearly done to respectable death by high schools and church groups for almost 30 years? I certainly would never have imagined a small rural theatre would have the ability to do what was done last evening. Godspell’s timeless message has always been about finding your quiet, unshakable faith amid a very loud, cold and shallow modern world. And anyone who did not find faith in last night’s performance must have been deaf, blind or asleep. Mary. Miller’s unbridled imagination revived Godspell’s freshness, humor and unapologetic decency. She deserves much credit for harnessing the incredible talents of this cast into a coherent whole. Her inventive twists couldn’t help but delight those of us overly familiar with the show. And to pull it off without overshadowing or diluting the sincere message of humanity, goodness, compassion and God’s love is simply ingenious. The ensemble – every last one a talented performer – exudes life, energy, humor and joy with full-throated voices that raise goose bumps a dozen times during the show. The young gentleman who sang “All Good Gifts” [Danny Baird] had me in tears. And the song, “Tower of Babble” had me speechless. Rarely do you see this song performed because of its difficulty. It is a very difficult song to play musically as well as sing, especially when you have 8 different parts with different words singing acapella. It was incredible! The entire production was unbelievably tight. I can easily see this production making lifelong theater and churchgoers, even for those of us lucky enough to get dragged to this show kicking and screaming. One last note about something that really touched my heart. I was sitting near the back and had the privilege of watching Mary Miller throughout the show. I watched her cheer her actors on, I watched her shed tears and watched her hug each and every actor as they came up for bows. What struck me most was the deep respect and genuine love that passed between her and each of the actors as they stepped up to receive her hug. I think for both of them that hug was more important than the bow. I hope Our Lady of Grace can truly appreciate what this woman has brought to your community. I don’t think any of us will ever realize exactly what a treasure she is or the value of what she has given.
Thank you for a wonderfully memorable evening which rejuvenated my passion for Christ and my commitment to be one of His disciples. Where do I get season tickets?
Dr. Steven Whiting
Dear Rev. Msgr. Amato and Mary Miller,
Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for Mary Miller and the Youth Theatre have done it again! By sharing, dancing, hoping, feeling, laughing and singing you traced the outline of life’s bounty and mystery. Ms. Miller I don’t know how you do it, but you were able to honestly, creatively and vividly translate Godspell without losing its basic simplicity, warmth, vigor and message. For the audience last night’s performance was a graceful free fall into life, laughter, and love. But most of all, it proves that we can be the happiest of all creatures if we will just dance to the rhythm of His word and our own comic songbook souls. The cast was brilliant, uniformly strong: talented, committed and infectiously endearing. Each and every one of them added something important to the show. John the Baptist was extraordinary and Jesus, well, what can I say, he was simply put – amazing. Mary Miller you are a blessing to us all. May God Bless you with health so we may enjoy many more Miller productions to come.
Sharon Timmons
Dear Father Nick,
This letter is about 5 months late but as they say “better late than never.” I just saw “Godspell” and was blown away at the talent and message of the show. But more importantly I wanted to share with you the impact Mary Miller and your theatre ministry has had on my life. First, a little background. More years ago than I care to admit to I walked away from church and became immersed in law enforcement. I found it was easier to deal with the criminal element than attempting to deal with the individual shades of grey found in the church pews. I found myself being drawn back to the church (St. John’s) in spite of my desires or my preference. At first it was simply to keep my wife happy. She had held steadfastly to the idea of having her husband sit beside her in church. My logic was it was worth giving up a few hours on Sunday morning to keep peace in the family. Well, the best laid plans of mice and men. There was one center point in my rebellion against God. I quit praying. It was an easy enough thing to stop. There were always other things to keep me occupied for the time I had normally set aside to pray. Even on Sundays I worked hard to ignore the preacher only allowing him into my conscious world on occasion. That is until I saw “Treasures of the Heart” this past December. This musical helped me to take a long hard look at my life and the many blessings that had been bestowed on me. After the show I spoke with Mary Miller, the director and thanked her for the beautiful words both spoken and sung in the musical. She was gracious, but gave the credit to God, thanking him for giving them to her. I encouraged her to take credit for her own words and she said the only credit she would take would be for listening when God spoke. It was obvious to me by the look in her eyes when she said this that she truly meant every word she had spoken. Frankly, her humility stunned me. Most people I know are eager to boast about their accomplishments. I asked her where this humility came from and she said, “Look at the cross.” That was it! That was what I needed to hear; what I was missing. The following Sunday as I sat with my wife trying to ignore the sermon being preached I took a good long look at the cross. And although I was able to somewhat tune out the sermon, I was not able to ignore that cross. Every Sunday after that I sat and stared at the large wooden cross mounted high in the front of the church. It was then that I finally found myself being drawn back into prayer. I’m not going to say it was easy because I kicked, I screamed, I fought and even became angry at the thought. But whatever I did I found myself talking to God. I didn’t know why. The one thing I did know was that I was being inexorably pulled back into a conversation with God. Deep down I knew I was being called home. It was then that I realized why Mary Miller’s musical touched me so deeply. It was because I had been homeless. I had been wandering aimlessly – hungry, cold, and yearning to find my way home. This past Friday evening, watching Godspell, I was once again motivated and inspired to be truer to God. I saw Mary Miller after the show once again and told her that the model of love for God that she is able to show for the youth of this theatre and for all of us in the community is so amazingly beautiful and stunning. What a gift she shares with us all. Once again she praised God for all of this. I have such awe and admiration for her, so much that it is far beyond my understanding. It went even further when someone told me that she suffers from a terminal illness. Thank you for allowing her to share this ministry with the poor souls of this world.
(Name withheld at the request of the writer)
Hello Ms. Miller,
This is Amy Woolf, your “tech goddess.” [Amy was in charge of lighting for the production.] I just wanted to thank you and everyone involved with Godspell so so much for everything they’ve done for me. I really feel like part of the family. This week has been scary and full of hospitals and doctors, except when I got to be with you and the cast. My father passed away peacefully this afternoon around 3:00pm, and although I am new to the OLG Theatre family, I cannot think of any other group of people I would rather be with. I feel like you have more ways than me to get in touch with the cast, so please tell them how much I love them and how loved they made me feel this week. This performance of Godspell will always be close to my heart, because my father’s cardiac arrest was Sunday morning, when I joined you, and he was at peace when Godspell was doing it’s final show. Thank you so much again, you have no idea what you’ve meant to me.
Amy Woolf
Dear Mary and Father Nick,
I attended last evening’s performance of Godspell as a part of the review process for the Kennedy Center. Once again, you have amazed us with your creative direction. What struck me even more than the musical was your relationship with the actors. It was very touching to see the love pass between you and the youth. Often times the directors we see are untouchable dictators. Your smile, warmth and obvious love for these actors warmed my heart. It must be an awesome experience being under your direction. I will report back to the review committee tomorrow with once again highest recommendations for having you direct “Treasures of the Heart” at the Kennedy Center for either the 2008-09 season or the 2009-10 season. There are still a few more committees to go through before final approval but you are well on your way. As you can imagine I have seen Godspell umpteen times and never have I seen it done so creatively. Great job! And kudos to the cast, production staff, backstage crew, and band. All around a magnificent job!
(Name withheld at the request of the writer)
Dear Father Nick,
I thought you should know what a wonderful time we had at the Godspell production this past week. We came Thursday night and bought tickets to return Saturday because we loved it so much. We saw last year’s show too which almost made us not buy tickets, but I’m glad we did. Mary was able to make this show very different than last year and the kids onstage were phenomenal. How does she do it with her health problems? Where does she find the energy to be there for all of us? Where does she find the strength to continue to motivate the entire community to follow in the Lords footsteps? I watched her as she hugged each and every one of those kids each night before bows. It brought a tear to my eye. It is obvious that they love her and she loves them. What an amazing combination. Thank you for allowing this ministry to take shape. No offense to you or anyone else but I think this ministry has affected the Our Lady of Grace Community more than just about anything else.
The Haus Family
Dear Youth Theatre of Northern Baltimore County,
All I can say is ….WOW!!! They say that God works in mysterious ways and last night was an example of this for me. It just so happened a friend I haven’t seen in awhile had an extra ticket to your performance last evening. This friend and I had been on the outs over something that now, as we look back, was pretty insignificant. I hesitated about coming because of this, but something compelled me to begrudgingly accept the invite. We didn’t speak much but polite exchanges in the lobby and took our seats with I must admit quite a bit of discomfort on my part. As I sat waiting for the show to start I began regretting my decision to come to the show. After all, I was sitting next to someone who had wronged me and it was “community theatre” so in my mind it was going to bomb!!! Boy was I surprised…it didn’t take more than 1 minute after curtains up before I was completely enthralled. Soon my friend and I were laughing, nudging each other and smiling. During intermission we gabbed like two school girls and the great divide that came between us fell apart. As we were standing in the lobby the director walked by and my friend caught her eye and told her what a wonderful job she had done with these beautifully talented children. She was very gracious but gave all the credit to God and the kids…taking little credit for herself. As she walked away another audience member told us of her long and continuing battle with cancer. Not only did this inspire us more, but it made both my friend and me realize what fools we had been. I write this email to thank Our Lady of Grace, Mary Miller, and all those beautifully talented children for reminding an old woman what it is that Jesus expects of us and how love should lead the way. Love certainly led the way last night and it is my hope it will for a long time to come.
Ethel Martin
Weekly HOMILY for July 15, 2007: The Secret of the Good Samaritan -- Feeing, Feeling, and Doing
15th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
July 15, 2007
The Secret of the Good Samaritan: Seeing, Feeling, and Doing
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Hurry
Several years ago, Yale University did a study on what they called the “Good Samaritan” responses of the students.
The students were divided into three groups. Each group was told to report to another building across the campus to take a test.
The first group was told to get there immediately and they were called the “high hurry” group. The second group was told to get there in fifteen minutes and they were called the “middle hurry” group.
And the third group was told to get there sometime that morning and they were called the “no hurry” group. Without knowing it, the students had been set up.
Along the way, various individuals posed as persons in need. One was crying, one pretended to be sick, and a third had a flat tire.
Interestingly, none of the students in the “high hurry” or “middle hurry’ groups stopped to help anyone. But every student in the “no hurry” group did stop.
Yale University concluded that as the hurry in our lives increases, our caring decreases. Does that ring true in your own experience?
The Questions: Jesus and the Lawyer
The Yale Study can help us break open God’s Word.
The Gospel story says that a student of the Law, probably a lawyer, asks Jesus: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” He seems to be taking a legalistic approach to religion.
He is really asking: “What do I have to do and what don’t I have to do?” It is something like us asking if the Wedding Mass we’re at on early Saturday afternoon “counts” as our Sunday Mass.
Notice that Jesus responds to the lawyer by asking two questions. “What is written in the Law? And how do you read it?”
Certainly, the man must have known what was written in the Law and, in fact, he states it. “Love God and love your neighbor.”
But Jesus is also trying to get this man in touch with how he, within himself, understands the Law and that’s why he further asks,“How do you read it?” We know that the man offers no response to that at all.
Instead, he comes back to Jesus with another question. “Who is my neighbor?”
Once again, the fellow seems legalistic. He is really asking: “Who is and who is not my neighbor?”
And it’s at this point that Jesus tells the famous parable of the Good Samaritan.
Seeing, Feeling, Acting
Let’s look at this story a bit more carefully.
What seems to set the Good Samaritan apart from the Priest and the Levite is that he has three things going on inside himself: (1) He sees the beaten man, (2) He feels for the beaten man, and out of these two actions, (3) He acts to help the beaten man.
In contrast, the Priest and the Levite only see. They see the man lying beaten on the road. It’s only the Samaritan who moves from “seeing” to “feeling compassion” and eventually, “acting on it.”
The Yale University Study would tells us that we only need to slow down enough to be able to see, to really see, so that compassion can whelm up within us and so we can then act on it.
This ability to have compassion for another who is hurting or in need whelm up from within us is a divine quality and it’s already planted within us. It’s what makes us most like God. And when we respond like God, of course, we are closer to eternal life.
This is why Jesus tells this story in response to the lawyer’s question of “What do I have to do to inherit eternal life?” The Samaritan feels compassion and then acts on this feeling.
We can think of many reasons why not to act out of compassion: we’re too busy or we can’t help everyone or it’s too risky.
However, if we take the time to see, the Yale Study says we maximize the opportunity to be most God-like.
Who We Are as Persons
I close with one last insight. At the end of the parable Jesus asks, “Who was [or acted as] neighbor” to the man in need? This is a crucial question.
The ultimate moral norm, the ultimate norm of morality, is: what kind of person do I become if I do or don’t do something?
Being slow and attentive enough to see, to feel compassion and to act will shape who we are as a person.
They make us a neighbor. They make us God-like persons and that is the ultimate and absolute norm of moral living.
The first step is taking the time to see and that will make all the difference in the world!
Our Lady of Grace
July 15, 2007
The Secret of the Good Samaritan: Seeing, Feeling, and Doing
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Hurry
Several years ago, Yale University did a study on what they called the “Good Samaritan” responses of the students.
The students were divided into three groups. Each group was told to report to another building across the campus to take a test.
The first group was told to get there immediately and they were called the “high hurry” group. The second group was told to get there in fifteen minutes and they were called the “middle hurry” group.
And the third group was told to get there sometime that morning and they were called the “no hurry” group. Without knowing it, the students had been set up.
Along the way, various individuals posed as persons in need. One was crying, one pretended to be sick, and a third had a flat tire.
Interestingly, none of the students in the “high hurry” or “middle hurry’ groups stopped to help anyone. But every student in the “no hurry” group did stop.
Yale University concluded that as the hurry in our lives increases, our caring decreases. Does that ring true in your own experience?
The Questions: Jesus and the Lawyer
The Yale Study can help us break open God’s Word.
The Gospel story says that a student of the Law, probably a lawyer, asks Jesus: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” He seems to be taking a legalistic approach to religion.
He is really asking: “What do I have to do and what don’t I have to do?” It is something like us asking if the Wedding Mass we’re at on early Saturday afternoon “counts” as our Sunday Mass.
Notice that Jesus responds to the lawyer by asking two questions. “What is written in the Law? And how do you read it?”
Certainly, the man must have known what was written in the Law and, in fact, he states it. “Love God and love your neighbor.”
But Jesus is also trying to get this man in touch with how he, within himself, understands the Law and that’s why he further asks,“How do you read it?” We know that the man offers no response to that at all.
Instead, he comes back to Jesus with another question. “Who is my neighbor?”
Once again, the fellow seems legalistic. He is really asking: “Who is and who is not my neighbor?”
And it’s at this point that Jesus tells the famous parable of the Good Samaritan.
Seeing, Feeling, Acting
Let’s look at this story a bit more carefully.
What seems to set the Good Samaritan apart from the Priest and the Levite is that he has three things going on inside himself: (1) He sees the beaten man, (2) He feels for the beaten man, and out of these two actions, (3) He acts to help the beaten man.
In contrast, the Priest and the Levite only see. They see the man lying beaten on the road. It’s only the Samaritan who moves from “seeing” to “feeling compassion” and eventually, “acting on it.”
The Yale University Study would tells us that we only need to slow down enough to be able to see, to really see, so that compassion can whelm up within us and so we can then act on it.
This ability to have compassion for another who is hurting or in need whelm up from within us is a divine quality and it’s already planted within us. It’s what makes us most like God. And when we respond like God, of course, we are closer to eternal life.
This is why Jesus tells this story in response to the lawyer’s question of “What do I have to do to inherit eternal life?” The Samaritan feels compassion and then acts on this feeling.
We can think of many reasons why not to act out of compassion: we’re too busy or we can’t help everyone or it’s too risky.
However, if we take the time to see, the Yale Study says we maximize the opportunity to be most God-like.
Who We Are as Persons
I close with one last insight. At the end of the parable Jesus asks, “Who was [or acted as] neighbor” to the man in need? This is a crucial question.
The ultimate moral norm, the ultimate norm of morality, is: what kind of person do I become if I do or don’t do something?
Being slow and attentive enough to see, to feel compassion and to act will shape who we are as a person.
They make us a neighbor. They make us God-like persons and that is the ultimate and absolute norm of moral living.
The first step is taking the time to see and that will make all the difference in the world!
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for July 8, 2007: Back from Sunny Italy
July 5, 2007
Focus: Back from Sunny Italy
Dear Friend,
After two weeks in Italy it is good to be back in the old USA.
My first week was spent studying at the Vatican with a group of 15 priests who were on sabbatical there ten years ago. We had speakers on the topics of Grace, Eucharist and Morality. It was an extremely enlightening week. The high point for me came when I was asked to be the main celebrant in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica over the very tomb of St. Peter.
The second week was spent touring towns on the Adriatic and in the Province of Tuscany. From Rome we joined up with some lay friends and the 18 of us drove to Assisi, Pesaro, Rimini, Loretto, San Marino, Bologna, Montecatini, Florence, San Gimignano, Sienna and finally back to Rome. I would have to say that the highlight of this leg of the trip was to see the actual house of the Blessed Virgin Mary transported from Nazareth to Loretto by the Angelini Family to save it from desecration by the Moors.
My week back has been very busy with four funerals and lots of pastoral care. It was a memorable time away.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: Back from Sunny Italy
Dear Friend,
After two weeks in Italy it is good to be back in the old USA.
My first week was spent studying at the Vatican with a group of 15 priests who were on sabbatical there ten years ago. We had speakers on the topics of Grace, Eucharist and Morality. It was an extremely enlightening week. The high point for me came when I was asked to be the main celebrant in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica over the very tomb of St. Peter.
The second week was spent touring towns on the Adriatic and in the Province of Tuscany. From Rome we joined up with some lay friends and the 18 of us drove to Assisi, Pesaro, Rimini, Loretto, San Marino, Bologna, Montecatini, Florence, San Gimignano, Sienna and finally back to Rome. I would have to say that the highlight of this leg of the trip was to see the actual house of the Blessed Virgin Mary transported from Nazareth to Loretto by the Angelini Family to save it from desecration by the Moors.
My week back has been very busy with four funerals and lots of pastoral care. It was a memorable time away.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for July 8, 2007: Christians -- By Maya Angelo
This and That:
Christians – By Maya Angelo
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting “I’m clean livin’.”
I’m whispering “I was lost,
Now I’m found and forgiven.”
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I don’t speak of this with pride.
I’m confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not trying to be strong.
I’m professing that I’m weak
And need His strength to carry on.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not bragging of success.
I’m admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not holier than thou,
I’m just a simple sinner
Who received God’s good grace, somehow!
You might share this with somebody who already has this understanding, as reinforcement. But more importantly, share this with those who do not have a clear understanding of what it means to be a follower of the Lord. There is a myth that Christians think they are “perfect” or “better” than others.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Christians – By Maya Angelo
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting “I’m clean livin’.”
I’m whispering “I was lost,
Now I’m found and forgiven.”
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I don’t speak of this with pride.
I’m confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not trying to be strong.
I’m professing that I’m weak
And need His strength to carry on.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not bragging of success.
I’m admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.
When I say... “I am a Christian”
I’m not holier than thou,
I’m just a simple sinner
Who received God’s good grace, somehow!
You might share this with somebody who already has this understanding, as reinforcement. But more importantly, share this with those who do not have a clear understanding of what it means to be a follower of the Lord. There is a myth that Christians think they are “perfect” or “better” than others.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly HOMILY for July 8, 2007: Being a Person of Peace
14th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C
Our Lady of Grace
July 8, 2007
Being a Person of Peace
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Conflict
I imagine that most of us have found ourselves in conflict with another person at some point in our lives.
I have to believe that each of us, myself included, has been in conflict with a friend, a spouse, a parent, a son or daughter, an employer or employee. Such conflicts are part of the human condition.
They are inevitable in the course of human relationships. Sometimes, these conflicts get very heated and we feel very angry.
Sometimes there are hurtful words and even hurtful actions.
The key question is: how can we maintain or re-establish a sense of peace both within ourselves and with the other person in these conflicts?
Being Peaceful
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is sending the disciples out to announce the Kingdom of God.
He says: “Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If peaceful persons are there, your peace will rest on them.”
Apparently, peace or peacefulness – both within ourselves and within our relationships –is central to God’s presence and message. And so, we must ask: “What is involved in being a peaceful person?”
“What is involved in being persons who want to be at peace with others?” This evening (morning) I would like to share some ideas that are based on my own life experience.
I find that when I pay attention to these, they help me to get hold of myself and do what I can to maintain or re-establish peace. Let’s call these six stepping stones to peace.
Six Stepping Stones to Peace
Number 1: Take time to pray, reflect and get some distance. Some people would simply say: count to ten before saying or doing anything.
I would say that it is an important thing to draw the Lord into the conflict through prayer. This enables us to get hold of ourselves, to put things in perspective, and to allow the power of God to actually assist us.
Number 2: Respond; do not react. There is a big difference between the two.
When we react, we quickly, often without thought, act on what has happened and we may do this on a purely emotional level. However, when we respond, we act from what is best within us – from the kind of person God wants us to be and the kind of person we ourselves really want to be.
Number 3: Be willing to talk and to listen. Perhaps after a cooling-off period, we might invite the other person to talk together.
Or, on the other side, be willing to accept an invitation to have a conversation and do this face to face, in person.
Number 4: The adage holds true, if we don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all. Do not demonize the other person or make them out as all bad.
Be tempered and balanced. Make sure we see the good, the positive thing in the other person and tell say this.
Number 5: Acknowledge that there are some things I am not good at. Admiting a mistake I may have made that contributed to the problem goes a very long way.
Once again, the use of cooling-off or distance or prayer may be essential for me to have the insight and willingness to do this, but, doing this is crucial in peacemaking.
And Number 6: As a general rule in life, say “Please,” “Thank you,” “Excuse me,” things like that. Say these things to those close to us, particularly to people whom we are prone to take for granted.
And say these things to people at work, to people we do not even know, or even people who have offended us. Theses expressions create a peaceful atmosphere and lead to peaceful persons and relationships.
Conclusion
So, having the peace of the Lord within us, bringing that to others, allowing others to bring it to us – all of this is central to being a disciple of the Lord.
It is central to spreading the Kingdom of God on this earth.
It is central to becoming the kind of persons that God is calling us to be.
Our Lady of Grace
July 8, 2007
Being a Person of Peace
By (Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
Conflict
I imagine that most of us have found ourselves in conflict with another person at some point in our lives.
I have to believe that each of us, myself included, has been in conflict with a friend, a spouse, a parent, a son or daughter, an employer or employee. Such conflicts are part of the human condition.
They are inevitable in the course of human relationships. Sometimes, these conflicts get very heated and we feel very angry.
Sometimes there are hurtful words and even hurtful actions.
The key question is: how can we maintain or re-establish a sense of peace both within ourselves and with the other person in these conflicts?
Being Peaceful
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is sending the disciples out to announce the Kingdom of God.
He says: “Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If peaceful persons are there, your peace will rest on them.”
Apparently, peace or peacefulness – both within ourselves and within our relationships –is central to God’s presence and message. And so, we must ask: “What is involved in being a peaceful person?”
“What is involved in being persons who want to be at peace with others?” This evening (morning) I would like to share some ideas that are based on my own life experience.
I find that when I pay attention to these, they help me to get hold of myself and do what I can to maintain or re-establish peace. Let’s call these six stepping stones to peace.
Six Stepping Stones to Peace
Number 1: Take time to pray, reflect and get some distance. Some people would simply say: count to ten before saying or doing anything.
I would say that it is an important thing to draw the Lord into the conflict through prayer. This enables us to get hold of ourselves, to put things in perspective, and to allow the power of God to actually assist us.
Number 2: Respond; do not react. There is a big difference between the two.
When we react, we quickly, often without thought, act on what has happened and we may do this on a purely emotional level. However, when we respond, we act from what is best within us – from the kind of person God wants us to be and the kind of person we ourselves really want to be.
Number 3: Be willing to talk and to listen. Perhaps after a cooling-off period, we might invite the other person to talk together.
Or, on the other side, be willing to accept an invitation to have a conversation and do this face to face, in person.
Number 4: The adage holds true, if we don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all. Do not demonize the other person or make them out as all bad.
Be tempered and balanced. Make sure we see the good, the positive thing in the other person and tell say this.
Number 5: Acknowledge that there are some things I am not good at. Admiting a mistake I may have made that contributed to the problem goes a very long way.
Once again, the use of cooling-off or distance or prayer may be essential for me to have the insight and willingness to do this, but, doing this is crucial in peacemaking.
And Number 6: As a general rule in life, say “Please,” “Thank you,” “Excuse me,” things like that. Say these things to those close to us, particularly to people whom we are prone to take for granted.
And say these things to people at work, to people we do not even know, or even people who have offended us. Theses expressions create a peaceful atmosphere and lead to peaceful persons and relationships.
Conclusion
So, having the peace of the Lord within us, bringing that to others, allowing others to bring it to us – all of this is central to being a disciple of the Lord.
It is central to spreading the Kingdom of God on this earth.
It is central to becoming the kind of persons that God is calling us to be.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Weekly MESSAGE for June 17, 2006: All Roads Lead to Rome
June 14, 2007
Focus: All Roads Lead to Rome
Dear Friend,
In 1997 I was on a three-month sabbatical studying in Rome and at the Vatican. It was an extraordinary year for me and a real renewal of my ministry. The 38 of us priests who studied at the North American College there, were from dioceses across the United States, with one fellow from Kenya. So close were we, and so much did we want to continue our theological renewal, that we continued to gather every June since then for a week of study. Each year a different priest would host the others and draw on local seminary, college, and diocesan offices for speakers.
This June is our 10th Anniversary and we are all heading back to Rome and the Vatican for our week of renewal. We fly out of Kennedy Airport in New York on Monday afternoon. In addition to speakers, celebrating Mass in St. Peter’s and other ancient churches, our plans include an audience with Pope Benedict XVI and a private tour of Castelgondolfo, the Pope’s summer residence. Of course there will a gelato run every evening. After all, “All work and no play …” applies to priests as well.
This means, of course, that I will not be writing for the next two weeks. My weekly message, “This and That,” and homily will resume on Thursday, July 5, 2006.
Till then be well.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Focus: All Roads Lead to Rome
Dear Friend,
In 1997 I was on a three-month sabbatical studying in Rome and at the Vatican. It was an extraordinary year for me and a real renewal of my ministry. The 38 of us priests who studied at the North American College there, were from dioceses across the United States, with one fellow from Kenya. So close were we, and so much did we want to continue our theological renewal, that we continued to gather every June since then for a week of study. Each year a different priest would host the others and draw on local seminary, college, and diocesan offices for speakers.
This June is our 10th Anniversary and we are all heading back to Rome and the Vatican for our week of renewal. We fly out of Kennedy Airport in New York on Monday afternoon. In addition to speakers, celebrating Mass in St. Peter’s and other ancient churches, our plans include an audience with Pope Benedict XVI and a private tour of Castelgondolfo, the Pope’s summer residence. Of course there will a gelato run every evening. After all, “All work and no play …” applies to priests as well.
This means, of course, that I will not be writing for the next two weeks. My weekly message, “This and That,” and homily will resume on Thursday, July 5, 2006.
Till then be well.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Weekly THIS AND THAT for June 17, 2007: Our Lady of Grace Welcomes Its New Permanent Deacon
This and That:
Our Lady of Grace Welcomes Its New Permanent Deacon
On May 19th at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, Cardinal Keeler ordained nine men to the Permanent Diaconate and for service to the Church of Baltimore. Our Lady of Grace was fortunate to have one of them – Lee Benson – assigned to our parish. He will begin on July 1st, although he was present at all the Masses last weekend to preach and assist at the liturgy. A welcome reception followed the 10:30am Mass.
Lee is married to his wife Debbie and they have three children. He is the head of a family-owned business that sells tools and supplies to suppliers, and also leases warehouses in three states. He has been a parishioner of St. Ignatius Parish in Hickory. He has a wonderful story to tell of how a successful businessman got involved in parish ministry and then realized that God was calling him to greater service to the Church as an ordained minister. We have been waiting with a sense of excitement to welcome Deacon Lee to our parish and last weekend we were able to do so.
I asked him to take a moment to tell us something about himself and his first impressions of visiting the campus. The following are his remarks.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Words from Deacon Lee:
The first son of Lee and Genevieve Benson, I grew up as the middle child in a family of five. After graduation from Loyola High School in 1970, I went to Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland, Ohio. At a fraternity party I met a charming and wonderful woman. Debbie, attending nearby Ursuline College, soon became a close friend. After we both graduated we married and moved to Baltimore. I went to work full time at the family business, L. A. Benson Company. The Lord blessed us with three children, Coleman (1980), Ashley (1981) and Lee IV (1989). With the retirement of my Father from the family business, I became the President and CEO of the company. Our oldest son is married and we are blessed to have three grandsons.
On the retreat just before our Ordination our Retreat Director asked us to read an article on homiletics written by Archbishop Dolan. In the article Archbishop Dolan offers a reflection on the quote from Scripture, “Sir, we would like to see Jesus” (John 12:21). This phrase so caught my attention that I kept coming back to it during my prayer and reflection. If I had to summarize my hopes for ministry at Our Lady of Grace, I think this verse does an adequate job. My hope is that my ministry will help us all to see Jesus a little more clearly. I hope that we will all see Jesus more clearly in the Eucharist, Sacred Scripture and most of all in one another.
I thank Fr. Nick, Elaine Hagner, and Paul Michaud for a very warm welcome. I certainly see why Our Lady of Grace is a “welcoming, worshipping community of faith.” The parish campus, the church and the Education Center are beautiful. I look forward to sharing Sunday worship with the community and getting to know the welcoming people of Our Lady of Grace.
Sincerely,
Deacon Lee Benson
Our Lady of Grace Welcomes Its New Permanent Deacon
On May 19th at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, Cardinal Keeler ordained nine men to the Permanent Diaconate and for service to the Church of Baltimore. Our Lady of Grace was fortunate to have one of them – Lee Benson – assigned to our parish. He will begin on July 1st, although he was present at all the Masses last weekend to preach and assist at the liturgy. A welcome reception followed the 10:30am Mass.
Lee is married to his wife Debbie and they have three children. He is the head of a family-owned business that sells tools and supplies to suppliers, and also leases warehouses in three states. He has been a parishioner of St. Ignatius Parish in Hickory. He has a wonderful story to tell of how a successful businessman got involved in parish ministry and then realized that God was calling him to greater service to the Church as an ordained minister. We have been waiting with a sense of excitement to welcome Deacon Lee to our parish and last weekend we were able to do so.
I asked him to take a moment to tell us something about himself and his first impressions of visiting the campus. The following are his remarks.
Fondly,
Father Nick Amato
Words from Deacon Lee:
The first son of Lee and Genevieve Benson, I grew up as the middle child in a family of five. After graduation from Loyola High School in 1970, I went to Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland, Ohio. At a fraternity party I met a charming and wonderful woman. Debbie, attending nearby Ursuline College, soon became a close friend. After we both graduated we married and moved to Baltimore. I went to work full time at the family business, L. A. Benson Company. The Lord blessed us with three children, Coleman (1980), Ashley (1981) and Lee IV (1989). With the retirement of my Father from the family business, I became the President and CEO of the company. Our oldest son is married and we are blessed to have three grandsons.
On the retreat just before our Ordination our Retreat Director asked us to read an article on homiletics written by Archbishop Dolan. In the article Archbishop Dolan offers a reflection on the quote from Scripture, “Sir, we would like to see Jesus” (John 12:21). This phrase so caught my attention that I kept coming back to it during my prayer and reflection. If I had to summarize my hopes for ministry at Our Lady of Grace, I think this verse does an adequate job. My hope is that my ministry will help us all to see Jesus a little more clearly. I hope that we will all see Jesus more clearly in the Eucharist, Sacred Scripture and most of all in one another.
I thank Fr. Nick, Elaine Hagner, and Paul Michaud for a very warm welcome. I certainly see why Our Lady of Grace is a “welcoming, worshipping community of faith.” The parish campus, the church and the Education Center are beautiful. I look forward to sharing Sunday worship with the community and getting to know the welcoming people of Our Lady of Grace.
Sincerely,
Deacon Lee Benson
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