This is our chance – a chance to evangelize
Catholics love Lent. Each Lent, we see in our Churches Catholics whom we haven’t seen in awhile. Our Ash Wednesday celebrations were so beautiful. For the first time in years, we spent time during Communion breaking the sacred Host because we didn’t have enough. People visiting the city from the US and other parts of Canada came during the day on Ash Wednesday asking to be signed with ashes. Teenagers from Spain and Mexico came knocking on the door of the Church wanting to receive ashes. It was a beautiful thing to see: people returning to Jesus. This is a sign of the hunger and thirst in the human heart for God! We are made for God! For some, it may be an Ash Wednesday thing, for others it may be a 40 day thing. Whatever it may be, we know God is at work.
I was astonished on Ash Wednesday. When I see a stranger with ashes on their head, I immediately felt a sense of connection to that person. I may not know who they are, but I know we both belong to something bigger. Lent reminds us there are many others walking along the same path. For 40 days, we are truly a community on a journey. Pope Francis calls it Lenten Togetherness which builds up a sense of belonging which is something very attractive for those who feel alone, isolated and detached.
What can we do as a parish to help those who are returning this Lent?
Every life tells a story. Let us get to know someone. Engage. Get to know. Connect. Go out for Coffee with someone. Stories can surprise and inspire us. Our stories become sacred when we bring them to Jesus – to His heart which burns with love for us.
Just imagine what would happen if all the people of our parish were attractive and present to those who reconnect on Ash Wednesday and during Lent. Just imagine if they knew of Jesus’ compassionate mercy and boundless love through the actions of the active Churchgoers they encounter in Lent.
The question remains: how can we take this chance to evangelize so that it is not just a fleeting moment but a forever moment? Our evangelization can take the form of a welcome spirit in our Churches and with our families and friends at home, at work, at school and in the community. Getting to know the story of a newcomer and gently reaching out to support them in their joys and struggles can go a long way to turning a forgettable moment of return into a memorable milestone along the journey of faith. We can all do something. Little steps can take us far.
Some suggestions as we grow together in our relationship with Jesus this Lent:
- Committing to attending Mass all the Sundays in Lent. Having a ’Me and Jesus Time’ immediately after Communion or after Mass. Jesus wants to get to know you personally. The lover and the beloved. My heart and His heart. We can bring the kneelers down and commune with Jesus on our knees if you are able. For some, kneeling may be difficult. Enjoy sitting. Jesus understands.
- If you are already attending Mass on Sunday, consider attending one more day, during the week.
- Friday Stations of the Cross
NET YOUTH RETREAT HELD LAST WEEK: Thanks to everyone who made it a successful and fruitful weekend. Check page 3 for pictures and note of gratitude.
Your brother,
Fr. Obi