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February 11, 2017The Book of Sirach admonishes if you choose to keep the commandments they will save you. St. Paul, builds on the ancient adage by reminding us that Christ speaks a wisdom that “that none of the rulers of this age knew.” But this age he says, is passing away and a new one is coming. What is he referring to? Christ says that judgment is coming, but not like the judgment of this world.
The intentions of our hearts are at the core of moral decisions. It is not enough that we haven’t killed anyone. We will be judged for thinking and speaking angrily to others. It is not enough that we haven’t committed adultery. We will be judged for lusting in our hearts. The Christ calls us to an obedience to the law that goes beyond the letter of the law. He directs us to look into our hearts and minds for the roots of sin. There we meet our God and his mercy. None of us should think we please God just because we haven’t murdered anyone. The Lord challenges us to purity of heart. “Blessed are the pure of heart for they shall see God.” Mt. 5:8.
In Matthew’s gospel it says, ““If you bring your gift to the altar and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift at the altar, go first to be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” Mt. 5:23. So, in our practice, before we all come for communion in God, we offer a sign of peace to those around us.
Our faith calls us to be faithful to God and to live at peace with one another. Today, Bishop Kicanas asks us to live at peace with one another and to be generous with the needs of our community. The Annual Catholic Appeal is the means through which we reach out to others in need.
Our Annual Catholic Appeal is underway. Our bishop has been a great leader in his time in our diocese. Although Bishop Kicanas sent his retirement letter into the Holy Father, his replacement has not yet been named. I anticipate that we will meet our new bishop before our Annual Catholic Appeal goal of $101,000 is met.
The Annual Catholic Appeal has been the major, combined effort of all Catholics in Southern Arizona to work together to build up the faith, empowering the ministries of our Church to put the Gospel into action, and touching the lives of thousands in meaningful ways. This very important effort:- Feeds the hungry
- Clothes the needy
- Provides a presence of Christ in hospitals, schools and prisons
- Strengthens needy parishes throughout our Diocese
- Provides funding for social outreach programs
- Helps retired priests and helps to educate future priests
You may make your gift here at the parish, by mailing your check or money order in the envelope that was enclosed in Bishop’s letter, or online at our parish online giving page or by choosing the Bishop’s Annual Catholic Appeal Online donation link on our parish home page. You may also make a pledge which is payable over the remaining months of 2017. I pray that God will open our hearts to receive His love and generosity and that the Holy Spirt will guide us to share His great gift of love with others.
God bless you for your generosity!
