Pastors Notes from December 10, 2023
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December 11, 2023“The church is not a theological classroom. It is a conversion, confession, repentance, reconciliation, forgiveness and sanctification center, where flawed people place their faith in Christ, gather to know and love him better, and learn to love others as he designed.”
(Paul David Tripp, Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands)
Advent is a time of preparation for the Lord’s return, for the feast of Christmas, and especially for the renewal of Christ’s presence within our heart and very soul through gratitude, sharing, and reconciliation. With the Sacrament of Reconciliation this Sunday in our Advent Penance Services—and before and after weekend Masses—we are offered this healing grace, which in turn can be the most significant step toward our preparation for Christmas. Cathy McCleish, a member of a Catholic parish in Fort Wayne, describes the grace of this Sacrament that is possible for each of us. “Life experience has taught me that humility is a great asset; one that was vital in my recognizing the infinite value of the sacrament of Reconciliation in my life. The most applicable definition I have found: Humility amounts to a clear recognition of who and what I really am, followed by a sincere attempt to become what God would have me be. If God has any anger associated with my sins, it is because they have kept me from becoming all that He created me to be. The love, comfort and peace I sought eluded me until I accepted that I would only experience happiness by aligning my will with His. I found it humbling to be open to guidance, both intellectual and spiritual. This elusive concept eventually evolved into a simple (but not always easy) series of daily choices. Our examination of conscience before receiving Reconciliation matures as our understanding of Catholic teaching and Scripture increases. For me, it has evolved from a quick checklist in the pew to a nightly inventory of the preceding day. Where was I selfish, sharp-tongued, envious or dishonest? Prayerfully, I ask God for guidance to help me right the wrongs and adjust my behavior. . . .While it is humbling to voice my failings in the presence of a priest, my spoken words reinforce my need for change and accountability. A loving God instituted a means through which my honesty can open the door to forgiveness. The grace I receive strengthens me for when my free will must choose once again. Resentment, regrets and a touch of humility are met with acceptance, forgiveness and grace for life’s trials. Most importantly, I am reconciled and reconnected with God and those around me.” An Advent opportunity, to receive this precious gift of healing through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the one gift Christ deeply desires to offer each of us; may it up the real blessing and hope of Christmas. (1:00pm at St. Malachy; 3:00pm at Sacred Heart)
In Christian faith let us pray:
From every evil - Deliver me, Lord.
From acts of greed & selfishness - Deliver me, Lord.
From sexual temptation - Deliver me,
Lord. From aggressive & vengeful thoughts - Deliver me, Lord.
From quarrel & angry argument - Deliver me, Lord.
From personal despair - Deliver me,
Lord.
From prejudice and fear - Deliver me, Lord.
Acknowledging the past 100 years of St. Malachy’s mission and presence of Catholic faith—and the grace of the Eucharist nurturing this community into the future—this prayer seems most fitting.
Glorious Saint Malachy, gentle shepherd of God’s people, we come before you seeking your intercession and protection. Malachy, angel of peace, grant lasting peace to our country. Obtain for each of us the grace of repentance and renewal that we may serve the Lord all our days. Most fatherly Archbishop of Armagh, rich in mercy and compassion, look upon all who are suffering or in need and obtain for them support, healing and hope. St Malachy, ablaze with heavenly fire, be a light to guide our church on our pilgrim way to the Kingdom of Heaven. There may we be united with you in singing the praises of God for ever and ever. Amen.
God Bless, Fr. Tim
FYI: “I heard a bird sing in the dark of December. A magical thing.” (Oliver Herford)
