As I look out of my window whilst typing this missive it is very sunny and a warm 80+. Here we are in the Easter season of light and warmth. It is good for us, and also a very Catholic thing to do, to observe the world around us and to allow our imaginations to feel the presence of God in our lives. All of his creation is stamped with his authority. The light of the resurrection is clear and bright revealing paths and obstacles there on, driving away the morning mists of confusion and gloom. When we have stumbled or fallen, we feel the warmth of the mercy of God that raises us up to walk again in his wonderful light.
Mercy really is our theme this year, especially as a pilgrimage center for the year of mercy. After five months of living here in CA, I am very aware of the warmth of this community who have welcomed me from afar. This is how we witness in the most basic way. Learning about our faith, being devoted and people of prayer is essential but what speaks is the love of God expressed in and through us. Indeed the corporate and spiritual works of mercy formally express this. But as I slowly ripen with age (it is really not for me to say mature) I realize it is not the “what’s” and “why’s” of life but rather how we do things that is the key. On my ordination card is a quotation that guides my every moment. It is an easy reference to remember, John 10:10. “I have come that you may have life in all its fullness”. Part of the Johannine theological overview of the Christ event is how he showed us how to be human. The more truly human we are the more we are, each of us in our own unique and wonderful way, the Imago Dei, the image of God. So after the spring cleaning of our souls in Lent, may our very humanity radiate the light and warmth of the risen Lord.
God bless you, your families, and the week ahead.
May God bless you, your families, and the week ahead,
Fr Aidan Peter