Homily: Feast of St. Timothy And Titus

Homily: Feast of St. Timothy And Titus (2 Timothy 1:1-8) “In It for the Long Haul”

Yesterday we remembered the Conversion of St. Paul. Today, we read his words to some fellow apostles in Second Timothy. Paul was part of the first generation of Christians. He was a mentor to many Christian leaders Timothy and Titus were two of them.

The sense we have is that these two men were leaders in the early church. Some would say that they were two of the first bishops. It seems like they were growing discouraged. The first Christians believed that it would not be long until the second coming of Jesus. When Jesus came all the problems of the world would be solved. His followers will be lifted with him to glory. The difficulty was that time was passing and there was no sign of the return of Jesus.

Practical problems arose. To live in any community is a difficult thing. When we first become a part of a group, we are attracted to we see the members in a good light. We might have a wonderful first impression but then the humanity of our new community becomes very apparent. What then?

Someone said once that there are four stages of community.

1.    Infatuation (We are attracted to a group that appears to be enthusiastic and supportive).

2.    Disenchantment (A member or members of the community we have joined disappoints us, commits a public sin or acts in a selfish manner).

3.    Reevaluation (We must make a choice as to whether we stay or whether we leave).

4.    Recommitment (We decide to accept our community with all its faults. We fall all in love with the group in a more realistic way. We decide to stay in the group for the long haul).

Timothy and Titus had to needed to stir the flame of faith so that it would burn strongly once again. Paul empathized and encouraged them. When he did, they took heart and moved forward.

Reflection Questions:

 1.    Have I ever left an organization that I thought I was committed to? What prompted me to do so?

2.    Have I ever remained committed to a community even when it was less than perfect? Why?

 Dear Parishioners,

  Tonight, we had a session with parents of First Communion students. We talked about the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We have a very large class because many people let the catechesis of their children slide during the COVID pandemic. Now they are trying to play catch up. It is a wonderful thing to see this unfolding.

These days I feel like St. Paul. I am the old guy trying to tell people why belonging to the church is worthwhile. It was a privilege to have the opportunity to talk to such an audience. I hope my tone was encouraging rather than judgmental. I would ask all parishioners to pray for these families. They are interested in the church. Many need to take the third and forth step I spoke of. They need to reevaluate and recommit to life in the church.

May Our Lady pray for all those who are facing a faith crisis.

Fr. Mark