Mid-June is the typical time for new assignments of our diocesan clergy to take effect. This writer is among the many priests who are embarking on new challenges in this regard. Consequently, the following reflections will be my last, at least for now.
This column has been a function of my position in the Office for Evangelization to provide information about evangelization events and programs while helping to form a proper understanding of every baptized Christian’s duty to evangelize. Over the years we have explored many facets of evangelization: hospitality, small-group dynamics, parish resources, discipleship, outreach, prayer, devotions, saints, Sacraments and so much more. Hopefully, my reflections have helped readers better to appreciate the abundance of resources at our disposal in the Catholic Church to help us be “fully alive” in our respective vocations.
We oftentimes have used liturgical seasons or celebrations to bring various aspects of our faith into the limelight. For example, the recent celebration of Pentecost reminds us that the Holy Spirit comes to live within us to make us holy and to empower us to accomplish great things for God that are well beyond the scope of our natural human abilities. We need not fear new beginnings when we know they are all a part of the Lord’s plan for our life. We priests know that God’s directives for us are in part revealed through the specific assignments we receive from our bishop. We recognize obedience as a true gift that spares us from wondering whether or not we are where we are supposed to be and doing what we need to be doing.
Most priests are uncomfortable with hearing the line, “Congratulations on your promotion!” That “P” word reflects worldly ambition, which is not what our vocation is about. Our typical response to such ill-fated well-wishing usually goes something like this: “Well, I don’t think of it as a promotion, but I’m excited about the challenges of my new assignment. Please pray for me!”
This expression accurately reflects my sentiment toward the considerable endeavor of writing a doctoral dissertation, which effectively is the equivalent of writing a scholarly book. This is my assignment, but to help me to complete this new task, I will be relying on lots of prayer from family, friends, parishioners (still Brainard) and (former) readers of this column. Can I count on some from you?
For inquiring minds who want to know, my tentative topic for the doctoral paper is a close examination of the Marian spirituality of Pope Saint John Paul II. I hope to outline some practical ways that all of us can tap into this former pope’s way of praying with and through Mary so as to unite ourselves more intimately with Jesus. Admittedly, this goal is ambitious, to say the least. But our world seems to need a more Marian perspective that will open us up to God’s gifts and His guidance. Mary’s total acceptance of both is what makes her so holy.
Please allow me this opportunity to thank you for reading this column, even if only occasionally. I appreciate the kind comments I have received from readers in writing and in person over the years. Let us continue to support one another in prayer. May our gracious God bless you!
