Homily: Twenty-ninth Friday of Ordinary Time

Twenty-ninth Friday of Ordinary Time (Eph. 4:1-6) “The Key to Unity”

When a pastor leaves an assignment there is usually mixed feelings. In a way, the pastor hopes that people will miss him, but by the same token the prayer of a pastor is that the good work will continue. There must be unity if this is to be the case.

Jesus and St. Paul were good pastors. We can remember Jesus praying for his followers when he was approaching death. His prayer was that they would all be one.

We have the section from Ephesians that we read today. We get a sense that Paul is saying farewell. What is his prayer. He prays that his disciples will remain united.

He puts it very eloquently. There are certain virtues that need to be exercised if there is going to be unity in any group. We know what the list should include: patience, love, peace, hope.

Too often, when a leader retires, dies or moves away an organization falls on hard times. Usually this is when the group is built around a personality.

The main dynamic that comes into play is that the group searches for a new leader to follow. Competition develops between members. There are power struggles. Also, politics is played among the those who remain. Virtue is forgotten.

What spurs all this? Usually, it is the fear of change. Perhaps I will lose the status I enjoy. A new leader might like someone better than me. What is the main virtue that is needed amid change? The main virtue that is needed is humility. Can I wait to be asked to assume responsibility until it is my turn? This takes another primary virtue, patience. Humility and patience can preserve Christian unity.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Have I had mentor pass out of my life? How did I feel?

2.   Am I patient during change?  Do I fear change?

Dear Parishioners,

          I remind you that we will be having a ministry fair this weekend. Could you offer some of your time to help us out in the parish. Ministries vary from those who are the gardening community to those who serve as Eucharistic ministers. We need catechists and greeters. Everyone can do some tasks for the parish.

          There will be tables for sign up after the Masses with leaders to answer questions. You are being invite do serve Jesus. Please accept.

          Blessings,

          Fr. Mark