Homily: Fourth Wednesday of Easter

Fourth Wednesday of Easter (Acts 12:24-13:5) “The Right Call”

Often, we are presented with choices in our lives. We can try something new and different, or we can continue with life as we always have known it. Perhaps someone asks us to take on a new project that we may have never thought of. The person who asked us thinks that we would be perfect for the project. We might hesitate. Who, me?

This is the way it happens in church life. There is an unending list of things that need to be done. As a church leader I have often had to ask people to help with new initiatives. If I try to do everything myself, important tasks will be left undone. The efficient pastor knows how to delegate.

A call to do something new is more powerful if it comes from the church community. If church leadership prays about who might undertake a new ministry and decides on someone under the influence of the Spirit, the person chosen feels even more confident.

We read Acts today on how the early church community prayed about sending missionaries to Cyprus. And we are told that they set apart Barnabus and Paul. The two of them are sent. We do not hear them argue, but they are part of the selection process. Did they feel the Holy Spirit was acting? It seems like they did because they set out to call people to follow Jesus.

How do we know when we have read the promptings of the Spirit correctly. Usually, there are successes that happen after choices are made. Paul and Barnabus prove to be a dynamic missionary team. They baptize many and establish numerous churches. They are not afraid, but they act boldly and decisively. Truly the early church was good and reading and following the promptings of the Spirit.

1.    Have I ever been called to do something different? What was it?

2.    How do I know if I made the right choice? What confirms my choices?

Dear Parishioners,

            On Thursday of this week, we will be having a Blessing Cup Ceremony in our parish. The First Communion children painted a cup or chalice at their retreat. After that it was fired. We will have a prayer service and present the children with the cup they have made. The cups are usually a beautiful keepsake for their First Communion. They can keep them and use them at dinners and special occasions.

            It is wonderful to see these children grow in their faith and become more committed to Jesus. Please pray for them as First Communion approaches in May.

            May Our Lady pray for all the children of the world,

            Fr. Mark