For this Fifth Sunday of Easter this year, the Church provides for us a selection from the Gospels that takes us back to the night before Jesus died. These passages that are presented to us are from the fourteenth chapter of John’s Gospel, a section known as the Last Discourse. Jesus would have been speaking in a way that would have bewildered the disciples; they would most likely have been perplexed and confused, as we hear from Thomas’s question. Little did the disciples know that in a matter of hours their lives were “going to fall in” as one commentator puts it. They would find themselves turned upside down in chaos and uncertainty.
The Scriptures are timeless. We must never forget that the word of God is as apropos for us today as it was in the days when it was first heard/lived. Most of us can relate to the unfolding drama recorded for us by John; we know that we can be going about our lives and suddenly, and without warning, something drastically changes. At times we may want to put God to the test. We don’t want to have to rely on faith alone. Like Philip who says to Jesus “show us the Father and that will be enough for us,” we might be tempted to say “just manifest your power or glory in some undeniable way, Lord, and we will believe.” We do not need to ask God to reveal Himself in such ways since He is always present, in good times and in bad times; it is up to us to recognize Him.
Being able to see and feel God present around us is vital to our moving forward in our lives because moving forward almost always involves some degree of uncertainty; sometimes it may also have some apprehension or fear for as it did for Thomas in the Gospel. As we look forward to the days ahead, with a desire to return to some normalcy, if we are able to see God in our midst, then we can look forward in hope, even if the path and the details are unclear. St. Paul teaches us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever; so is His love, His mercy, and His presence among us. Find Him present in your life so that you can always move forward in faith and hope.
Spring Musical - Congratulations
Last weekend our school presented its annual Spring musical, this year “High School Musical Jr.” It was a wonderful success! I wish to thank all of our students, school staff, and the many volunteers who put several months of practice and work into a fun production for our parish community and beyond.
The Order of Lincoln – Congratulations
Created in 1964, the Order of Lincoln is the highest honor bestowed by the State of Illinois on any individual. I want to congratulate our fellow parishioner Karen Hasara on receiving that honor last weekend. The following was posted on the State of Illinois’s website about Karen: Illinois State Representative and Senator, two-term mayor of Springfield, and teacher. A lifelong Springfield resident, Hasara's public service career has spanned 40 years and she became the first and only female mayor of her hometown. Hasara continues to advocate for women, the community, Illinois, and global relations. Chicago native Wilton Cardinal Gregory, Archbishop of Washington D.C., was also awarded the same honor; I hope His Eminence knew that he was fortunate to be in such good company with Karen.
Men’s Club Golf Outing
Thank you to our Men’s Club for another great golf outing this year and for their on-going generosity and service to our parish and school! It was a bit cooler and breezier than it was the past few years but it was still a great day.
Blessings to you and yours for the week ahead!
Father Chris House