Pastoral Message – December 10, 2023
Hey Y’all,
I don’t know about you, but I find it difficult to keep up with all the new series on Netflix, Hulu, Prime, and various channels like HBO, Showtime, Starz and assorted podcasts. So when I have the time for some entertainment, I revert back to my happy places. I end up watching, listening to, and rereading classics, TV reruns, and radio programs that originally aired before I was born. I’m amazed just how fresh and new some old programs can e. Some, like “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In,” seem noticeably outdated, which leads me to question the initial appeal. Too many others to mention are iconic, giving a sense of then while good even now.
Now this is simply entertainment. In the realm of faith, sacred texts, theological concepts, and the traditions of the Church, seamlessly blend the ancient with the modern. For a lot of us St. John the Baptist’s story and message is very familiar. He’s intriguing – a prophet whose appearance and diet is rather cave-man like, but whose message has a current urgency that is continuously true – a Baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, and a Savior who is to come into the world.
So if you get a chance, think about this ever ancient, ever new Advent season we celebrate. Think back on the mysteries which have brought us our faith. And then think about how the acts of repentance, forgiveness, and hope in your Savior enhances your life even now.
God bless,
Fr. Reynold
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P.S. Thinking ahead, Fr. Philip and I are going to start Adult Faith Formation in January. We’re going to show a rerun – the “Catholicism” series that aired on PBS back in 2011. It was produced by then Fr., now Bishop Robert Barron. We’ll watch an episode and engage in insightful discussions. This program holds up better than “I Love Lucy”, “Friends” or any show featuring the “Property Brothers”.
Also thinking about classics, we’ll have new books for folks that want to read a spiritual classic. During Lent, we will get together and chat about them.
So, look for the specific dates and information in upcoming bulletins!
