 Fr.
Tom's Tomes January 1, 2006
This weekend we celebrate the Feast Day of Mary, Mother of God. Several times throughout the year the Church calls its members to gather in prayer to remember and celebrate the events of the life of Mary Our Mother. This weekend we remember Mary as the Mother of Jesus Christ. It was not only her yes to the angel Gabriel to be the mother of Jesus but also after his birth to care for him as any mother would their child. Mary cared for Jesus through her daily actions. She cooked, and cleaned and taught Jesus as he was growing up. Mary is a model for all mothers and fathers to follow. Mary had to give of herself in caring for Jesus. Mary not only cared for Jesus when he was young but also experienced extreme pain when Jesus died on the cross. Mary gave her son to be the savior of the world. As we celebrate the beginning of the new calendar year it is a time when people make New Year’s Resolution. I would invite every parent and grandparent to look at their relationship with their child or children and compare it to what Mary did for Jesus. Our world is different but there is a need to be every more vigilant in caring for the children of the world today. There are many more negative influences in our world today than at Jesus’ time because of all the technology which is around. Technology makes our world closer together but also is able to introduce our children to areas which can hurt their moral values. Parents are being challenged now more than ever to be good role models and to keep their children safe. Grandparents too need to continue to share your values and beliefs with grandchildren. In sharing with them let them know what you believe in. Grandparents are able to influence their grandchildren by the example you set. As we begin the new year I would invite each parishioner to think about what you do for our parish Please take some time and think about what you do for the parish. St. Columban Parish is in need of people to become Eucharistic Ministers and take communion to those who are not able to make it to Mass. We are in need of individuals to help with small things around the Church and property when they arise such as plumbing, painting, carpentry, cleaning and other areas which arise. We need more individuals who are willing to give one hour of your time to pray before the Blessed Sacrament on the First Fridays of the month. I believe it is essential for parishioners to take time and assist the parish in many different ways. I know in my experience of 23 years the more parishioners help out the stronger the community becomes. Each parishioner has a place in our parish and we need each and every person to be involved. I know and believe that many hands make light work. If we are able to have volunteers to help out there is nothing which can not happen. You, the parishioners, is what makes things happen. You are the resource we need to build the ministries of the parish. God bless you and have a blessed beginning to the new year. |