THE DISTANCE WE MUST TRAVEL

 
“Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go for two miles.” -Mt 5:41

While this may not be the most obvious scriptural citation to encourage volunteerism around the parish, it seems apropos as we draw close to the start of our Lenten pilgrimage. While not a mere physical distance, for us Catholics on the threshold of this liturgical season of 40 days, there are indeed real distances for us to traverse.

I often point out that the Christian Faith is not a mail-order religion that can be enjoyed from our favorite arm chair. Of course, some are homebound and experience the challenges of reduced mobility, but this does not take away from the obvious fact that the Faith bids us to come. Even Jesus said to Peter, calling him out of the boat onto the surface of the water: “Come!” (Mt 14:29). There is no substitute for physical presence and if we learned anything as a Church from the days of streamed liturgies, it is the amazing difference His Real Presence makes when we find ourselves in Christ’s Eucharistic Presence, united at Mass with our brothers and sisters.

We can’t virtually be marked with ashes on our foreheads; we cannot virtually walk the Stations of the Cross; we can’t plumb the mystical depths of the Holy Mass watching on a screen nor enjoy a televised fish fry. Almsgiving and fasting are altogether in-body experiences. The forgiveness of our sins most certainly cannot be given over WiFi or other technological means but only priest to penitent. The delightful smell of sauerkraut and Polish sausage and Polka dancing must be enjoyed in place, or not at all. Well, I guess you could try take out and dance at home! These and other facets of the Lenten season all remind us of the power of a journey.

Acknowledging tenderly those who cannot physically come, I remind those of us who can, to never tire of going the distance. As we trek back and forth between home and church many times throughout this Lenten season, let us realize that it is He who presses us into service and calls us to walk with Him.

I conclude with a final word for the men of the parish. Yes, Galentine’s Day is past but there are two upcoming opportunities for us men to dive into Lent:

I was invited to give a short talk at St. Helena Parish’s Men’s Breakfast next Saturday, February 25, at 8:30 am in Rowan Hall (3204 East 43rd St., Minneapolis). My topic: “The Sins of the Confessional Line: An Encouragement to the Sacrament of Penance.” With the start of Lent around the corner this is a timely topic. The cost of the breakfast is $6 (complimentary tickets are available for those who have difficulty paying). Participants are also invited to attend the 8:00 Mass prior to the breakfast and talk. Registrations should be made before 12:00pm on Friday, February 24, by calling 612-729-7321.

Secondly, on Saturday, March 18, is the Archdiocesan Men’s Conference, “Men of Faith Walking Together – Raising the Bar” at All Saints Catholic Church in Lakeville. I am planning to attend as are others in the parish. Although a drive, it will be worth our effort. It will run from 9 am-3 pm. Men are invited to this conference with keynote speaker Devin Schadt of The Fathers of St. Joseph. Archbishop Bernard Hebda will celebrate Mass beginning at 9:15 am. Walk-in registration will begin at 8:30 am and online registration is here: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=NYiyxd and there is an early bird discount before March 1.

Lent is a great time to do something out of the ordinary. Take a step forward in the Faith! What do you have to lose?

See you this Tuesday for Sauerkraut Supper in the school gym and remember, this Wednesday is Ash Wednesday!

~Fr. Howe