Fr. Simon's Letter - October 2, 2022

Last weekend, drawing inspiration from the Gospel, I highlighted the activities of our parish Outreach Commission. This weekend we hear the prophet Habakkuk lament to God: "Why do you let me see ruin; why must I look at misery? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife and clamorous discord." A lot of people in the world today could make the same cry. Closer to home, the situation is not so drastic. Perhaps, in some ways, some have never had it so good.

Yet, as individuals, from time to time, the wrestle with God continues. "Why? Why me? And after all the effort I have made to be good!" The puzzled questioning often arises spontaneously in the minds of people diagnosed with a terminal illness and those who love them. The insistence of the questioning passes with time, but only because other agendas take center stage. For many, the question remains unanswered.

I think it is essential that we respect the deep questions of those confronted with suffering and death – whether it's their own or those in their care. In my limited experience of people dying, most people I have known have passed peacefully. Sometimes their peace may have been due to their loss of energy. Others see the grace of God at work. In my observation, one important factor is the presence around them of those who love them. The experience of being loved, respected, and treated as important is mysteriously comforting, reassuring, and a natural source of acceptance and peace.

Of the gifts of prayer and other assistance we may provide to the sick and the homebound, there is no greater and better gift than the gift of Christ himself. Our Ministers of Care bring the Eucharist to the sick and the homebound twice a month. If you are drawn to this ministry, please don't hesitate to contact Erika Tate, our Director of Faith Formation, to learn more about this ministry and the solace you will bring to those you serve.

On a personal note...it is time for my parish review, click below for details.