Pastor’s Corner
July 4-5, 2020
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In these chaotic and uncertain times that we are living in there are many unknowns. As our state and nation implement new directives and remove or reduce restrictions placed upon us, we look forward to getting out and enjoying our summer breaks and vacations. This pandemic has caused many to struggle in their personal, professional, and spiritual lives. This season of Easter may be over, but God has reassured us that He is with us. Let us find strength, courage, and fidelity during these trying times. Prayer and praise of God in no matter what circumstances we find ourselves keeps us connected to the one true God.
In this age of technology, we have many resources available to us to help us pray. In seminary I was going through a time when I was having trouble with prayer. My spiritual director told me something that I remember to this day – “pray as you can and not as you should.” In the hustle and bustle of the world in which we live in we must learn to pray as we can and not as we should.
In the Catechism of the Catholic Church number 2743 it reads: It is always possible to pray. The time of the Christian is that of the risen Christ who is with us always, no matter what tempests may arise. Our time is in the hands of God: It is possible to offer fervent prayer even while walking in public or strolling alone, or seated in your shop… while buying or selling…or even while cooking.” (I would add while driving your car or tractor.)
We often purchase an app for our new phone so quickly for the things that are important to us and to help us in our lives. How many of us purchase apps that will assist us in our prayer? I have on my phone the following apps to help me in prayer: Divine Office, Rosary Audio (what a great time to teach our children the rosary), Divine Mercy Chaplet, Chaplet of St. Michael, Stations of the Cross, K-Love Radio, Today’s Christian Music, and Mass Times. Most of these are free apps and help me pray while walking or driving, sitting quietly or when I just want to pray in communion with others or if I don’t know the prayer and need assistance. The Mass Times app (The Catholic Directory) allows me to enter my location and find the Catholic Churches nearest me so that when I am away on vacation I can always find a Catholic Church to attend Mass. I would call the Church and verify Mass times rather than just show up.
God should always come first in our lives. Let us make time, however we can, to give Him the praise and glory that He deserves for all He has given us. Let us show God He is important to us and to our lives.
Grace and Peace to all of you,
Fr. David
