Friday, December 18, 2009
A Holy Day Has Dawned That Knows No Sunset
To the thirst for meaning and value so characteristic of today's world, to the search for prosperity and peace that marks the lives of all mankind, to the hopes of the poor: Christ — true God and true Man — responds with his Nativity. Neither individuals nor nations should be afraid to recognize and welcome him: with him "a shining light" brightens the horizon of humanity; in him "a holy day" dawns that knows no sunset.( Pope Benedict XVI, Urbi et Orbi Message, Christmas 2007)
Christ is born again bringing hope for all, and we rejoice. At the time of year that is naturally darkest, he brings inextinguishable light. At a time when many are tempted to believe in the absence of God, he becomes present once again and always. In spite of all the noise and distractions of our commercialized Christmas, he appears again -- quietly, unobtrusively, and with all the remoteness and simplicity of the first Nativity. Angels sing again. (Are we listening?) Shepherds pay him homage, and the wise men and women of our day seek him still. (Are we among them?)
Christ is born again, and the weary world is renewed. He brings hope for the poor. He brings peace for warring peoples. He brings prosperity to economies ruined by greed and irresponsibility. He brings "a shining light" into all the dark corners of our world.
Christ is born again, and our heavy hearts are lightened. The burdens we carry — fear and anxiety, guilt and sin — are lifted by his coming again. "Be not afraid," he tells us, and we are reassured. "Trust in me," he says, "your sins are forgiven," and we are consoled.
The truth which makes us free has enlightened our minds and hearts once again this Christmas. "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and touched with our hands" (1 Jn 1-3) is Christ born again this Christmas. Come, let us adore him.
All year long, we worry and we struggle and we argue. At Christmas time, we are invited to give it up, to "let go and let God," to trust that all our troubles are truly in God's hands. God-is-with-us, Emmanuel, has come into our lives (as he does every day through the mystery of the Eucharist) to bring us peace. Why don't we let him?
Christmas is the time of year when we remember God's goodness to us. The gifts we receive are the faintest reminders of the Gift that Christ is to each of us. The Christmas carols we sing are merely echoes of the angels' song, "Peace on earth. Good will toward all." The bright colors and the Christmas lights pale in comparison to the shining star that has brightened the horizon of humanity for all time.
If we couldn't celebrate Christmas, we might well go mad. Our world would certainly be darker and more depressing. Where would we place our hope? In government? In Wall Street or Hollywood? Our prospects would be dim indeed.
No, we find our hope in a little child placed in a manger and wrapped in swaddling clothes. His blessed mother, Mary, and his faithful guardian, the good steward Joseph, attend to him lovingly. Poor shepherds, dumb animals and mysterious strangers are his companions. The heavens rejoice and the earth resounds with hope.
What a wonderful day this is. How unlike most days! Today, a holy day has dawned that knows no sunset. Let us rejoice and be glad. Let us welcome the child Jesus into our hearts and our homes -- today and every day.
May the joys of the Christmas season fill your hearts with gladness. May you find holiness and hope this Christmas. And may the shining light of Christ bring prosperity and peace to you, and to our troubled world, this Christmas and throughout the New Year.
Merry Christmas!
Copyright © 2009, Daniel Conway
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Resources for Parish Bulletins - December 2009
A STEWARDSHIP MOMENT
From Dan Potvin, Archdiocese of Winnipeg
From Dan Potvin, Archdiocese of Winnipeg
English version:
December 6th – 2nd Sunday of Advent
Generosity… authentic generosity is born
out of an attitude of gratitude. How generous are
you with your time? Advent is a time of
preparation. A generous portion of our time
given to prayer and to the service of others is a
good way to make Christ’s presence among us
known. Stewardship is living generously. Thank
you for your generosity this past year.
December 13th – 3rd Sunday of Advent
Trust… in our increasingly secular society
it is not fashionable to trust God. Stewardship
means that we are grateful for our many
blessings, and we are generous with our lives
and our possessions. In living this way we learn
to trust more in God and less in ourselves.
Trust is the cornerstone of any relationship, and
our relationship with God is no different. God
trusts us to do our part and we must trust
explicitly in God.
December 20th – 4th Sunday of Advent
Gratitude, Generosity & Trust… these
have been the focus of our stewardship
reflections the first three Sundays of Advent.
Having these in our hearts we are more ready as
we await Christ’s coming. This coming week
will be a week filled with joyful anticipation.
Good stewards live in anticipation of fulfilling,
doing, and sharing in the Master’s work.
December 27th – Holy Family
Mary and Joseph went searching for their son
“in great anxiety.” They were understandably
worried. There are times when we worry about
the young people in our lives. There are also
times when they amaze us! Let us pray that in
the coming year our faith community will
continue to respond to the needs of families, and
encourage and enable our young people to share
their unique gifts. Amen.
Spanish version:
Notas del Boletín de Corresponsabilidad
Por: Dan Potvin, Arquidiócesis de Winnipeg
Diciembre 6 – Segundo Domingo de Adviento
Generosidad…la auténtica generosidad nace
de una actitud de gratitud. ¿Qué tan generoso es
con su tiempo? El Adviento es un tiempo de
preparación. Una buena manera de dar a conocer
la presencia de Cristo entre nosotros es dedicar
una generosa porción de nuestro tiempo a la
oración y al servicio de nuestro prójimo. La
corresponsabilidad es vivir generosamente.
Gracias por su generosidad durante este año que
está por llegar a su fin.
Diciembre 13 – Tercer Domingo de Adviento
Confianza… en nuestra creciente sociedad
secular, confiar en Dios no está de moda. La
corresponsabilidad significa que nosotros
estamos agradecidos por las numerosas
bendiciones y que somos generosos con nuestras
vidas y nuestras posesiones. Al vivir de esta
manera, nosotros aprendemos a confiar más en
Dios y menos en nosotros mismos. La
confianza es la piedra angular de cualquier
relación, y nuestra relación con Dios no es
diferente. Dios confía en que nosotros hagamos
nuestra parte y nosotros debemos confiar
explícitamente en Dios.
Diciembre 20 – Cuarto Domingo de Adviento
Gratitud, Generosidad y Confianza…
estos temas deben ser el centro de nuestras
reflexiones de corresponsabilidad los primeros
tres domingos de Adviento. Teniéndolos en
nuestros corazones, nosotros estaremos más
preparados mientras esperamos la llegada de
Cristo. Esta semana entrante será una semana
llena con un gozo anticipado. Los buenos
corresponsables viven en expectativa de cumplir,
hacer y compartir el trabajo del Maestro.
Diciembre 27 – La Sagrada Familia
María y José buscaron a su hijo ‘con gran
ansiedad’. Ellos estaban, comprensiblemente,
muy preocupados. Hay momentos en los que nos
preocupamos por los niños y jóvenes en nuestras
vidas. Hay también momentos en los que ellos
nos sorprenden. Oremos para que en el año por
venir nuestra comunidad de fe continúe
respondiendo a las necesidades de las familias,
para que aliente y permita a nuestros jóvenes
compartir sus dones únicos. Amén.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Stewardship Prayer
I offer this day to you,
dear God.
Thank you for the blessings
you have given me.
May I use these gifts
to build your kingdom.
May my actions be a reflection
of your love.
May what I do today
bring others closer to you.
May my words be kind and gentle
and may they bring joy to others.
Today, help me to give back a portion
of what you have given to me.
I ask this in Jesus' name.
Amen.
dear God.
Thank you for the blessings
you have given me.
May I use these gifts
to build your kingdom.
May my actions be a reflection
of your love.
May what I do today
bring others closer to you.
May my words be kind and gentle
and may they bring joy to others.
Today, help me to give back a portion
of what you have given to me.
I ask this in Jesus' name.
Amen.
Monday, November 2, 2009
We Dare Not Take God's Gifts for Granted
In the Gospel According to Mark (Mk 10:46-52), Jesus says to Bartimaeus, a blind man, "What do you want me to do for you?" Bartimaeus answers, "Master, I want to see."
Sight, like everything else we possess, is a gift from God. We don't earn it or deserve it. We receive it. Most of us receive the gift of sight at the same time we receive the gift of life. It's like the premium package that comes with a new car: automatic transmission, power steering, brakes and door locks, an audio system with CD changer and more. The package most of us were born with included the gifts of sight and hearing and speech -- and many other natural gifts that we take for granted every day.
Bartimaeus didn't receive the gift of sight when he was born. As a result of that birth defect, and whatever other personal troubles he experienced growing up, his lot in life was to sit by the roadside begging. Then he encountered Jesus. Mark's Gospel says that he heard that it was Jesus. There was nothing wrong with his hearing. In fact, like many sightless people, he probably had especially good hearing. So he cried out, "Jesus, son of David have pity on me."
The people around him told him to be quiet. But he kept calling out all the more, "Son of David, have pity on me." Until Jesus heard him and told the disciples to "Call him." So they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take courage; get up; Jesus is calling you." At which point the blind man jumped up, threw off his coat and ran to Jesus.
"What do you want me to do?" Jesus says. I want the gift of sight, Bartimaeus answers. "Go your way; your faith has saved you," Jesus tells him. Immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.
No more roadside begging for Bartimaeus. He followed Jesus on the way. That means he became a disciple, a follower of Jesus, and "the way" is the disciple’s path, the way of the Cross, the road that all of us who seek to follow Jesus must take -- each in our own way.
When Bartimaeus received the gift of sight and decided to follow Jesus "on the way," he became a Christian steward -- one who receives God's gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible and accountable manner, shares them generously with others and returns them to the Lord with increase. These are the characteristics of a Christian steward that are described in the American bishops' pastoral letter, Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response.
What does the experience of Bartimaeus teach us today? If we have received a gift from God - or many, many gifts from God - it’s our responsibility to say thank you. And to take good care of our gifts. And to share them generously with other people.
The story of Bartimaeus also reminds us that the Church is a gift that no one "deserves" or "earned" or is "entitled to." We received this Church from God and from all the people who worked so hard during the past 2000 years to build up the Body of Christ and to establish and sustain our local Churches with all their parishes, schools and Catholic institutions (and including all the wonderful facilities, staffs and ministries) that are now available to people throughout the world.
Catholics are generous people. Many participate actively in the ministries and community life of our Church. Many serve the needs of others within their parishes and far beyond individual parish and diocesan boundaries. Many support their diocese's annual appeal and the collections that support the Church's work nationally and internationally. And a growing number of adults, youth and children in various regions of the world now see themselves as faithful stewards of the gifts God has given us.
The story of Bartimaeus reminds us that we dare not take any of God's gifts for granted. If we want our parishes to be vibrant communities of faith, we must participate in our Church's mission. If we want our children and youth to receive an outstanding Catholic education, we must support our parish formation programs and our schools. If we want good pastors and beautiful liturgy and the kind of ministries that can only be found in a dynamic community of faith, we must pray for vocations and encourage talented young people to respond generously to God's call. Above all, we must continue to be good and faithful stewards of all God's gifts (spiritual and material).
All it takes to be a good steward is the same courage that Bartimaeus showed when he threw off his coat and ran blindly to Jesus. And when the Lord asks us, "What do you want me to do for you," our response should be: Help us to see how blessed we are! Then Jesus will say to each of us: Go your way; your faith has saved you. Then it will be our turn to follow Jesus on the way.
Copyright © 2009, Daniel Conway
Sight, like everything else we possess, is a gift from God. We don't earn it or deserve it. We receive it. Most of us receive the gift of sight at the same time we receive the gift of life. It's like the premium package that comes with a new car: automatic transmission, power steering, brakes and door locks, an audio system with CD changer and more. The package most of us were born with included the gifts of sight and hearing and speech -- and many other natural gifts that we take for granted every day.
Bartimaeus didn't receive the gift of sight when he was born. As a result of that birth defect, and whatever other personal troubles he experienced growing up, his lot in life was to sit by the roadside begging. Then he encountered Jesus. Mark's Gospel says that he heard that it was Jesus. There was nothing wrong with his hearing. In fact, like many sightless people, he probably had especially good hearing. So he cried out, "Jesus, son of David have pity on me."
The people around him told him to be quiet. But he kept calling out all the more, "Son of David, have pity on me." Until Jesus heard him and told the disciples to "Call him." So they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take courage; get up; Jesus is calling you." At which point the blind man jumped up, threw off his coat and ran to Jesus.
"What do you want me to do?" Jesus says. I want the gift of sight, Bartimaeus answers. "Go your way; your faith has saved you," Jesus tells him. Immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.
No more roadside begging for Bartimaeus. He followed Jesus on the way. That means he became a disciple, a follower of Jesus, and "the way" is the disciple’s path, the way of the Cross, the road that all of us who seek to follow Jesus must take -- each in our own way.
When Bartimaeus received the gift of sight and decided to follow Jesus "on the way," he became a Christian steward -- one who receives God's gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible and accountable manner, shares them generously with others and returns them to the Lord with increase. These are the characteristics of a Christian steward that are described in the American bishops' pastoral letter, Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response.
What does the experience of Bartimaeus teach us today? If we have received a gift from God - or many, many gifts from God - it’s our responsibility to say thank you. And to take good care of our gifts. And to share them generously with other people.
The story of Bartimaeus also reminds us that the Church is a gift that no one "deserves" or "earned" or is "entitled to." We received this Church from God and from all the people who worked so hard during the past 2000 years to build up the Body of Christ and to establish and sustain our local Churches with all their parishes, schools and Catholic institutions (and including all the wonderful facilities, staffs and ministries) that are now available to people throughout the world.
Catholics are generous people. Many participate actively in the ministries and community life of our Church. Many serve the needs of others within their parishes and far beyond individual parish and diocesan boundaries. Many support their diocese's annual appeal and the collections that support the Church's work nationally and internationally. And a growing number of adults, youth and children in various regions of the world now see themselves as faithful stewards of the gifts God has given us.
The story of Bartimaeus reminds us that we dare not take any of God's gifts for granted. If we want our parishes to be vibrant communities of faith, we must participate in our Church's mission. If we want our children and youth to receive an outstanding Catholic education, we must support our parish formation programs and our schools. If we want good pastors and beautiful liturgy and the kind of ministries that can only be found in a dynamic community of faith, we must pray for vocations and encourage talented young people to respond generously to God's call. Above all, we must continue to be good and faithful stewards of all God's gifts (spiritual and material).
All it takes to be a good steward is the same courage that Bartimaeus showed when he threw off his coat and ran blindly to Jesus. And when the Lord asks us, "What do you want me to do for you," our response should be: Help us to see how blessed we are! Then Jesus will say to each of us: Go your way; your faith has saved you. Then it will be our turn to follow Jesus on the way.
Copyright © 2009, Daniel Conway
Resources for Parish Bulletins - November 2009
A Stewardship Moment
English Version:
For the weekend of October 31 / November 1, 2009
The Solemnity of All Saints
In today’s Gospel Jesus begins the “Sermon on the Mount,”
with the “Beatitudes.” Many Christian commentators believe
these short messages of comfort and hope address the essence
of living a life in Christ. But what does it mean for the
Christian steward to be poor in spirit, to hunger for justice,
to be meek, clean of heart, or be a peacemaker? To embrace
Christian stewardship is to live the Beatitudes, and to turn society’s
expectations upside down, to live by different values,
a different set of standards. What can we do today to be good
stewards of the Beatitudes?
For the weekend of November 7/8, 2009
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Times
Jesus points out to his disciples the poor widow who has just
dropped two simple copper coins into the temple treasury. He
then delivers a teaching on stewardship. Despite her poverty,
the poor widow in today’s Gospel does not refuse God her
generosity. Out of her desperately impoverished life she contributes
to an earthly institution to give God glory and praise.
It is not the monetary value of the gift that was important, but
the love, trust and gratitude expressed through the gift. The
Gospel asks us similarly compelling stewardship questions:
What do we value? In what or whom do we place our trust?
How do our own contributions to our community of faith reflect
our generosity toward God?
For the weekend of November 14/15, 2009
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
How would you spend your day if you knew it was the last
day you would spend on earth? Undoubtedly, it would not
be a normal day. The point of today’s Gospel reading is that
the end-time is always imminent. The good steward remains
prayerfully alert, ready to give an accounting; and living each
day in the awareness of the coming judgment and salvation.
How do we exercise stewardship over our daily lives? Are we
prepared to give an accounting? How will we allow Christ to
work in and through us to prepare for the reconciliation of
the heavens and the earth?
For the weekend of November 21/22, 2009
Solemnity of Christ the King
Today’s Gospel reading records, arguably, the most important
exchange in all of literature, the one between Jesus and Pilate.
While Pilate presumes the conversation is about an earthly,
political “king,” Jesus, by contrast, suggests to Pilate that he is
that “faithful witness” of a wholly transcendent kingship, one
that is envisioned by Daniel and the reading from the Book
of Revelations. As we approach the Advent season, this week
would be a good time to reflect on how we understand our
role as stewards of this transcendent kingship and how we
can better serve Christ to bring about this new kingdom.
For the weekend of November 28/29
First Sunday of Advent
A profound stewardship blessing is offered by St. Paul to the
Thessalonians in today’s second reading. He encourages the
community to continue to show loving concern for its members
and to care for the needs of others. We witness for the
first time the spirituality of stewardship at work in a New Testament
community that is putting the Eucharist into action.
An Advent spirit prevails that is transforming and filled with
hope for the coming of the Lord Jesus. What are we doing to
promote this spirit of stewardship in our personal lives and in
our community of faith?
Para el fin de semana del 31 de octubre/ 1º de noviembre de 2009
Solemnidad de Todos los Santos
En el Evangelio de hoy Jesús inicia el “Sermón en la Montaña,”
con las “Bienaventuranzas.” Muchos comentaristas Cristianos
creen que estos pequeños mensajes de consuelo y esperanza
hablan de la esencia de vivir una vida en Cristo. Pero, ¿qué
significa para el Cristiano corresponsable ser pobre en espíritu,
tener hambre de justicia, ser humilde, limpio de corazón, o ser
un conciliador de paz? Abrazar la corresponsabilidad Cristiana es
vivir las Bienaventuranzas, y tornar al revés las expectativas de la
sociedad; vivir con valores diferentes, y disponer otros estándares.
¿Qué podemos hacer hoy para ser buenos corresponsables de las
Bienaventuranzas?
Para el fin de semana del 7/8 de noviembre de 2009
Trigésimo Segundo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Jesús habla a sus discípulos acerca de la pobre viuda que depositó
dos sencillas monedas de cobre en el cofre del templo. Él ilustra
con esta narración, la enseñanza sobre la corresponsabilidad. A
pesar de su pobreza, la pobre viuda en el Evangelio de hoy no
rechaza su generosidad para Dios. Aún en su desesperada vida,
empobrecida, ella contribuye a una institución terrenal para
dar gloria y alabanza a Dios. Lo más importante no es el valor
monetario, sino el amor, la confianza y la gratitud expresados
a través de la donación. De la misma manera el Evangelio
nos hace persuasivas preguntas de corresponsabilidad: ¿qué
valoramos nosotros? ¿En qué, o en quién ponemos nuestra
confianza? ¿Cómo reflejan nuestra generosidad hacia Dios, las
contribuciones que hacemos a nuestra comunidad de fe?
Para el fin de semana del 14/15 de noviembre de 2009
Trigésimo Tercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
¿Cómo viviría su día, si supiera que este es su último día de
vida en la tierra? Indudablemente, este no sería un día normal.
El punto de la lectura del Evangelio de hoy es que el final
del tiempo es siempre inminente. El buen corresponsable
permanece piadosamente en alerta, listo para dar cuentas, y
vivir cada día en conocimiento del juicio y la salvación por
venir. ¿Cómo ejercitamos diariamente la corresponsabilidad
en nuestras vidas? ¿Estamos preparados para entregar cuentas?
¿Cómo permitiremos a Cristo trabajar en nosotros, y a través de
nosotros, en la preparación para la reconciliación de los cielos
y la tierra?
Para el fin de semana del 21/22 de noviembre de 2009
Solemnidad de Cristo Rey
La lectura del Evangelio de hoy registra, posiblemente el
intercambio de información más importante en toda la literatura,
el diálogo entre Jesús y Pilatos. Pilatos asume la conversación
en términos terrenales, “rey” político; Jesús, por el contrario,
sugiere a Pilatos que él es ese “testimonio verdadero” de un
reino totalmente trascendente, aquel que es anunciado por
Daniel y la lectura del Libro de las Revelaciones. Esta semana,
al aproximarse, la estación de Adviento, podría ser un buen
momento para reflexionar acerca de cómo entendemos nuestro
rol como corresponsables de este reino trascendente y cómo
podemos servir mejor a Cristo para traer este nuevo reino.
Para el fin de semana de 28/29 de noviembre de 2009
Primer Domingo de Adviento
En la segunda lectura de hoy, San Pablo ofrece una profunda
bendición a los Tesalonicenses. Él impulsa a la comunidad a
continuar mostrando amorosa preocupación por sus miembros
y a cuidar de las necesidades de otros. Nosotros atestiguamos
por primera vez la espiritualidad de la corresponsabilidad en
el trabajo, en una comunidad del Nuevo Testamento que está
poniendo la Eucaristía en acción. Prevalece en ella un espíritu
de Adviento que transforma y llena con anticipación la venida
del Señor Jesús. ¿Qué estamos haciendo para promover este
espíritu de corresponsabilidad en nuestras vidas personales y en
nuestra comunidad de fe?
Source: ICSC November e-newsletter
English Version:
For the weekend of October 31 / November 1, 2009
The Solemnity of All Saints
In today’s Gospel Jesus begins the “Sermon on the Mount,”
with the “Beatitudes.” Many Christian commentators believe
these short messages of comfort and hope address the essence
of living a life in Christ. But what does it mean for the
Christian steward to be poor in spirit, to hunger for justice,
to be meek, clean of heart, or be a peacemaker? To embrace
Christian stewardship is to live the Beatitudes, and to turn society’s
expectations upside down, to live by different values,
a different set of standards. What can we do today to be good
stewards of the Beatitudes?
For the weekend of November 7/8, 2009
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Times
Jesus points out to his disciples the poor widow who has just
dropped two simple copper coins into the temple treasury. He
then delivers a teaching on stewardship. Despite her poverty,
the poor widow in today’s Gospel does not refuse God her
generosity. Out of her desperately impoverished life she contributes
to an earthly institution to give God glory and praise.
It is not the monetary value of the gift that was important, but
the love, trust and gratitude expressed through the gift. The
Gospel asks us similarly compelling stewardship questions:
What do we value? In what or whom do we place our trust?
How do our own contributions to our community of faith reflect
our generosity toward God?
For the weekend of November 14/15, 2009
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
How would you spend your day if you knew it was the last
day you would spend on earth? Undoubtedly, it would not
be a normal day. The point of today’s Gospel reading is that
the end-time is always imminent. The good steward remains
prayerfully alert, ready to give an accounting; and living each
day in the awareness of the coming judgment and salvation.
How do we exercise stewardship over our daily lives? Are we
prepared to give an accounting? How will we allow Christ to
work in and through us to prepare for the reconciliation of
the heavens and the earth?
For the weekend of November 21/22, 2009
Solemnity of Christ the King
Today’s Gospel reading records, arguably, the most important
exchange in all of literature, the one between Jesus and Pilate.
While Pilate presumes the conversation is about an earthly,
political “king,” Jesus, by contrast, suggests to Pilate that he is
that “faithful witness” of a wholly transcendent kingship, one
that is envisioned by Daniel and the reading from the Book
of Revelations. As we approach the Advent season, this week
would be a good time to reflect on how we understand our
role as stewards of this transcendent kingship and how we
can better serve Christ to bring about this new kingdom.
For the weekend of November 28/29
First Sunday of Advent
A profound stewardship blessing is offered by St. Paul to the
Thessalonians in today’s second reading. He encourages the
community to continue to show loving concern for its members
and to care for the needs of others. We witness for the
first time the spirituality of stewardship at work in a New Testament
community that is putting the Eucharist into action.
An Advent spirit prevails that is transforming and filled with
hope for the coming of the Lord Jesus. What are we doing to
promote this spirit of stewardship in our personal lives and in
our community of faith?
Un Momento de Corresponsabilidad
Spanish Version:Para el fin de semana del 31 de octubre/ 1º de noviembre de 2009
Solemnidad de Todos los Santos
En el Evangelio de hoy Jesús inicia el “Sermón en la Montaña,”
con las “Bienaventuranzas.” Muchos comentaristas Cristianos
creen que estos pequeños mensajes de consuelo y esperanza
hablan de la esencia de vivir una vida en Cristo. Pero, ¿qué
significa para el Cristiano corresponsable ser pobre en espíritu,
tener hambre de justicia, ser humilde, limpio de corazón, o ser
un conciliador de paz? Abrazar la corresponsabilidad Cristiana es
vivir las Bienaventuranzas, y tornar al revés las expectativas de la
sociedad; vivir con valores diferentes, y disponer otros estándares.
¿Qué podemos hacer hoy para ser buenos corresponsables de las
Bienaventuranzas?
Para el fin de semana del 7/8 de noviembre de 2009
Trigésimo Segundo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Jesús habla a sus discípulos acerca de la pobre viuda que depositó
dos sencillas monedas de cobre en el cofre del templo. Él ilustra
con esta narración, la enseñanza sobre la corresponsabilidad. A
pesar de su pobreza, la pobre viuda en el Evangelio de hoy no
rechaza su generosidad para Dios. Aún en su desesperada vida,
empobrecida, ella contribuye a una institución terrenal para
dar gloria y alabanza a Dios. Lo más importante no es el valor
monetario, sino el amor, la confianza y la gratitud expresados
a través de la donación. De la misma manera el Evangelio
nos hace persuasivas preguntas de corresponsabilidad: ¿qué
valoramos nosotros? ¿En qué, o en quién ponemos nuestra
confianza? ¿Cómo reflejan nuestra generosidad hacia Dios, las
contribuciones que hacemos a nuestra comunidad de fe?
Para el fin de semana del 14/15 de noviembre de 2009
Trigésimo Tercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
¿Cómo viviría su día, si supiera que este es su último día de
vida en la tierra? Indudablemente, este no sería un día normal.
El punto de la lectura del Evangelio de hoy es que el final
del tiempo es siempre inminente. El buen corresponsable
permanece piadosamente en alerta, listo para dar cuentas, y
vivir cada día en conocimiento del juicio y la salvación por
venir. ¿Cómo ejercitamos diariamente la corresponsabilidad
en nuestras vidas? ¿Estamos preparados para entregar cuentas?
¿Cómo permitiremos a Cristo trabajar en nosotros, y a través de
nosotros, en la preparación para la reconciliación de los cielos
y la tierra?
Para el fin de semana del 21/22 de noviembre de 2009
Solemnidad de Cristo Rey
La lectura del Evangelio de hoy registra, posiblemente el
intercambio de información más importante en toda la literatura,
el diálogo entre Jesús y Pilatos. Pilatos asume la conversación
en términos terrenales, “rey” político; Jesús, por el contrario,
sugiere a Pilatos que él es ese “testimonio verdadero” de un
reino totalmente trascendente, aquel que es anunciado por
Daniel y la lectura del Libro de las Revelaciones. Esta semana,
al aproximarse, la estación de Adviento, podría ser un buen
momento para reflexionar acerca de cómo entendemos nuestro
rol como corresponsables de este reino trascendente y cómo
podemos servir mejor a Cristo para traer este nuevo reino.
Para el fin de semana de 28/29 de noviembre de 2009
Primer Domingo de Adviento
En la segunda lectura de hoy, San Pablo ofrece una profunda
bendición a los Tesalonicenses. Él impulsa a la comunidad a
continuar mostrando amorosa preocupación por sus miembros
y a cuidar de las necesidades de otros. Nosotros atestiguamos
por primera vez la espiritualidad de la corresponsabilidad en
el trabajo, en una comunidad del Nuevo Testamento que está
poniendo la Eucaristía en acción. Prevalece en ella un espíritu
de Adviento que transforma y llena con anticipación la venida
del Señor Jesús. ¿Qué estamos haciendo para promover este
espíritu de corresponsabilidad en nuestras vidas personales y en
nuestra comunidad de fe?
Source: ICSC November e-newsletter
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A Prayer for My Parish
Gracious and loving God, we ask you to send
your Holy Spirit upon our parish to fill us
with love. Make us instruments of your love to
everyone that we encounter at home, at work,
in our neighborhoods, and in our parish community.
Work through us so that we can bring your
truth to those who are searching for you.
Help us to grow in gratitude so that we can
recognize and thank you for all the good
things you have given us.
Instill in us a deep sense of generosity so
that we are willing to share our gifts,
our talents, our time, and our financial
resources.
Deepen our desire to follow your will and to
do all things for your honor and glory.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, Our Lour
and Savior. Amen.
Source: Our Sunday Visitor
your Holy Spirit upon our parish to fill us
with love. Make us instruments of your love to
everyone that we encounter at home, at work,
in our neighborhoods, and in our parish community.
Work through us so that we can bring your
truth to those who are searching for you.
Help us to grow in gratitude so that we can
recognize and thank you for all the good
things you have given us.
Instill in us a deep sense of generosity so
that we are willing to share our gifts,
our talents, our time, and our financial
resources.
Deepen our desire to follow your will and to
do all things for your honor and glory.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, Our Lour
and Savior. Amen.
Source: Our Sunday Visitor
Friday, October 23, 2009
Glory and Thankfulness
Glory and Thankfulness – Hallmarks of Stewardship, Adapted from an article by E. Jane Rutter, Director of Stewardship, Diocese of Jefferson City, Missouri
Jesus calls us to follow. The Christian vocation represents a call to be a disciple of Christ. Receiving our commissioned summons in Baptism and Confirmation, we can focus on listening and for Christ’s personal calls throughout our lifetime. We respond through our spiritual formation and stewardship expressions.
Every day gives new opportunities to show that we choose to live as one of Christ’s disciples. Our expressions can show that we have listened to the Gospel messages, have received God’s gifts gratefully, are nurturing our gifts responsibly, sharing them justly and generously and returning each with gratitude through our daily living.
October 4 Respect Life Sunday – Stewardship demonstrates respect for God’s creation. Be aware of the many educational opportunities, prayer services, public witness events and programs to raise funds for those in need that are hosted in your diocese throughout the month of October to help build a culture of respect and defense for every human life. Each person is called to demonstrate reverence for human life through his/ her own special and unique gifts of creation.
October 18 World Mission Sunday - Organized by the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, World Mission Sunday is an important day in the life of the Church because it reminds Catholics worldwide about the importance of giving: “…as an offering made to God, in the Eucharistic celebration” and for the missionary activity of the Church (see Redemptoris Missio 81). We are reminded, as stewards and disciples, that it is the Lord through His universal Church, who we are called to serve - with the same love that He gives to each of us.
October 25 World Priest Day - This Sunday we celebrate the men who have exercised a unique stewardship of their lives by entrusting them to the Lord as priests. It is an opportunity for Catholics to thank, affirm and share their love and support for priests. Started by the Worldwide Marriage Encounter community, it is joined with the Serra Club’s celebration of Priesthood Sunday today. Throughout this year, dedicated as the Year for Priests, we can pray for vocations, and encourage those who might respond to this unique call. We can also respond to our own baptismal call by working collaboratively with our priests to build up the Kingdom of God.
October 31 “All Hallows Eve” – In the annual rhythm of the Church’s life of prayer and worship, the Solemnity of All Saints begins with Mass on Saturday afternoon, October 31, as well as Evening Prayer I in the Liturgy of the Hours. We rejoice in those who celebrate the heavenly banquet with Jesus Christ and we recall the Church’s rich tradition of faith-filled stewards. Keep “All Hallows Eve” from becoming “hollow” by celebrating the Christian connection to Halloween and the positive messages that stem from the holiday for the benefit of ourselves and the spiritual formation of our children. Celebrate this day as a Catholic heritage of faith.
Source: International Catholic Stewardship Council Website
Jesus calls us to follow. The Christian vocation represents a call to be a disciple of Christ. Receiving our commissioned summons in Baptism and Confirmation, we can focus on listening and for Christ’s personal calls throughout our lifetime. We respond through our spiritual formation and stewardship expressions.
Every day gives new opportunities to show that we choose to live as one of Christ’s disciples. Our expressions can show that we have listened to the Gospel messages, have received God’s gifts gratefully, are nurturing our gifts responsibly, sharing them justly and generously and returning each with gratitude through our daily living.
October 4 Respect Life Sunday – Stewardship demonstrates respect for God’s creation. Be aware of the many educational opportunities, prayer services, public witness events and programs to raise funds for those in need that are hosted in your diocese throughout the month of October to help build a culture of respect and defense for every human life. Each person is called to demonstrate reverence for human life through his/ her own special and unique gifts of creation.
October 18 World Mission Sunday - Organized by the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, World Mission Sunday is an important day in the life of the Church because it reminds Catholics worldwide about the importance of giving: “…as an offering made to God, in the Eucharistic celebration” and for the missionary activity of the Church (see Redemptoris Missio 81). We are reminded, as stewards and disciples, that it is the Lord through His universal Church, who we are called to serve - with the same love that He gives to each of us.
October 25 World Priest Day - This Sunday we celebrate the men who have exercised a unique stewardship of their lives by entrusting them to the Lord as priests. It is an opportunity for Catholics to thank, affirm and share their love and support for priests. Started by the Worldwide Marriage Encounter community, it is joined with the Serra Club’s celebration of Priesthood Sunday today. Throughout this year, dedicated as the Year for Priests, we can pray for vocations, and encourage those who might respond to this unique call. We can also respond to our own baptismal call by working collaboratively with our priests to build up the Kingdom of God.
October 31 “All Hallows Eve” – In the annual rhythm of the Church’s life of prayer and worship, the Solemnity of All Saints begins with Mass on Saturday afternoon, October 31, as well as Evening Prayer I in the Liturgy of the Hours. We rejoice in those who celebrate the heavenly banquet with Jesus Christ and we recall the Church’s rich tradition of faith-filled stewards. Keep “All Hallows Eve” from becoming “hollow” by celebrating the Christian connection to Halloween and the positive messages that stem from the holiday for the benefit of ourselves and the spiritual formation of our children. Celebrate this day as a Catholic heritage of faith.
Source: International Catholic Stewardship Council Website
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Stewardship Prayer
Gracious and loving God,
As we gather in Your name,
lead us into a deeper encounter
with Your Son,
Jesus Christ
who transforms us by Your grace
and reveals Your active presence
in our lives.
By the power of Your Spirit,
help us become better stewards of
Your abundant blessings,
Open our hearts to the needs of our Church
and to the hunger in the world.
And in this Year for Priests,
show us how to nurture them,
walk with them
and labor with them
to hasten Your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ, Our Lord.
AMEN
As we gather in Your name,
lead us into a deeper encounter
with Your Son,
Jesus Christ
who transforms us by Your grace
and reveals Your active presence
in our lives.
By the power of Your Spirit,
help us become better stewards of
Your abundant blessings,
Open our hearts to the needs of our Church
and to the hunger in the world.
And in this Year for Priests,
show us how to nurture them,
walk with them
and labor with them
to hasten Your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ, Our Lord.
AMEN
Dios amoroso y bondadoso,
Al reunirnos en Tu nombre,
guíanos hacia un encuentro más profundo con Tu Hijo,
Jesucristo;
Quien con Su gracia nos transforma
y nos revela Su presencia activa
en nuestras vidas.
Por el poder
ayúdanos a ser mejores corresponsables
de Tus bendiciones abundates.
Abre nuestros corazones a las necesidades de nuestra Iglesia
y al hambre en el mundo.
Y en este año de los sacerdotes,
muéstranos
y
para así acercarnos a Tu Reino.
Te lo pedimos a través de Cristo, Nuestro Señor.
AMÉN
Thoughts on Stewardship
Stewardship is the language of our faith, spoken through our actions, which was exemplified by the life of Christ.
Source: Becoming a Successful Stewardship Parish
Source: Becoming a Successful Stewardship Parish
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Resources for Parish Bulletins - October 2009
A Stewardship Moment
English Version
October 4th – 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Our relationships with our spouses, family, friends, coworkers,
and those in our community of faith are gifts from God.
Jesus reminds us today that it is hardened hearts that damage
or even break up a relationship. We pray that we may be good
stewards of our relationships. We pray that we may be patient
with others, seeking to understand while wanting to be understood.
We pray that through humility and loving service our
relationships will be as God intends them to be.
October 11th – 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jesus makes a dramatic statement regarding the rich in today’s
Gospel. We are all rich compared to most in the world. Our
society causes us to occasionally develop a misplaced trust
in our money and our possessions instead of trusting in God’s
generosity. When we seek security in at-risk things, like our
possessions, we are vulnerable to anxiety and fear. As good
stewards we know that our possessions must not possess us,
lest they get in the way of our discipleship.
October 18th – 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today is World Mission Sunday – a reminder of our call to evangelize.
What is evangelization? It is to be good stewards of the
Gospel. Gospel means ‘good news’, and not to share this good
news would be poor stewardship. We don’t have to be experts
in scripture to share the good news. We can be a light to others
simply by the example of our lives – by loving and serving one
another.
October 25th – 30thSunday in Ordinary Time
After healing the blind man Jesus told him to go, to be on his
way. But the man decided to follow Jesus. Being a disciple of
Jesus is a choice. The stewardship way of life likewise involves
a choice, in fact many choices. We choose to be grateful, we
choose live generously, and we choose to trust that God will
always provide for our needs. These are three choices central to
the stewardship way of life.
Spanish Version
Para el fin de semana del 3/4 de octubre de 2009
Vigésimo Séptimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Las relaciones con nuestro esposo/a, familia, amigos,
colegas, y con todos aquellos en nuestra comunidad de
fe, son dones de Dios. Jesús nos recuerda hoy que es un
corazón endurecido el que daña o rompe una relación.
Nosotros oramos para que seamos buenos corresponsables
de nuestras relaciones. Oramos para que seamos pacientes
con otros, buscando entender mientras deseamos ser
entendidos. Oramos para que a través de la humildad y
el servicio amoroso, nuestras relaciones sean como Dios
intenta que sean.
Para el fin de semana del 10/11 de octubre de 2009
Vigésimo Octavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Jesús hace una dramática declaración referente a la
riqueza en el Evangelio de hoy. Todos nosotros somos ricos
comparados con la mayoría en el mundo. Ocasionalmente,
nuestra sociedad nos genera el desarrollo de una confianza
fuera de lugar, en nuestro dinero y posesiones, en lugar de
la confianza en la generosidad de Dios. Cuando buscamos
seguridad en cosas de riesgo, como nuestras posesiones,
nosotros somos vulnerables a la ansiedad y al miedo. Como
buenos corresponsables, sabemos que nuestras posesiones
no deben poseernos, no sea que interfieran en el camino de
nuestro discipulado.
Para el fin de semana del 17/18 de octubre de 2009
Vigésimo Noveno Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Hoy es Domingo Mundial de las Misiones –un recordatorio
de nuestro llamado a evangelizar. ¿Qué es la evangelización?
Es ser buenos corresponsables del Evangelio. El Evangelio
significa “buenas nuevas”, y el no compartir estas buenas
nuevas sería una corresponsabilidad muy pobre. Nosotros no
tenemos que ser expertos en las escrituras para compartir las
buenas nuevas. Podemos ser una luz para otros, simplemente
con el ejemplo de nuestras vidas –por el amor y servicio de
unos con los otros.
Para el fin de semana del 24/25 de octubre de 2009
Trigésimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Después de sanar al hombre ciego Jesús le dijo que continuara
su camino. Pero el hombre decidió seguir a Jesús. Ser un
discípulo de Jesús es una elección. La corresponsabilidad
como forma de vida, involucra también una elección, de
hecho muchas elecciones. Nosotros elegimos ser agradecidos,
elegimos vivir con generosidad, y elegimos confiar en que
Dios siempre proveerá de nuestras necesidades. Estas tres
elecciones son el centro de la corresponsabilidad como forma
de vida.
Source: International Catholic Stewardship Council. Courtesy of Dan Potvin, Director of Stewardship and Development, Archdiocese of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
English Version
October 4th – 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Our relationships with our spouses, family, friends, coworkers,
and those in our community of faith are gifts from God.
Jesus reminds us today that it is hardened hearts that damage
or even break up a relationship. We pray that we may be good
stewards of our relationships. We pray that we may be patient
with others, seeking to understand while wanting to be understood.
We pray that through humility and loving service our
relationships will be as God intends them to be.
October 11th – 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jesus makes a dramatic statement regarding the rich in today’s
Gospel. We are all rich compared to most in the world. Our
society causes us to occasionally develop a misplaced trust
in our money and our possessions instead of trusting in God’s
generosity. When we seek security in at-risk things, like our
possessions, we are vulnerable to anxiety and fear. As good
stewards we know that our possessions must not possess us,
lest they get in the way of our discipleship.
October 18th – 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today is World Mission Sunday – a reminder of our call to evangelize.
What is evangelization? It is to be good stewards of the
Gospel. Gospel means ‘good news’, and not to share this good
news would be poor stewardship. We don’t have to be experts
in scripture to share the good news. We can be a light to others
simply by the example of our lives – by loving and serving one
another.
October 25th – 30thSunday in Ordinary Time
After healing the blind man Jesus told him to go, to be on his
way. But the man decided to follow Jesus. Being a disciple of
Jesus is a choice. The stewardship way of life likewise involves
a choice, in fact many choices. We choose to be grateful, we
choose live generously, and we choose to trust that God will
always provide for our needs. These are three choices central to
the stewardship way of life.
Spanish Version
Para el fin de semana del 3/4 de octubre de 2009
Vigésimo Séptimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Las relaciones con nuestro esposo/a, familia, amigos,
colegas, y con todos aquellos en nuestra comunidad de
fe, son dones de Dios. Jesús nos recuerda hoy que es un
corazón endurecido el que daña o rompe una relación.
Nosotros oramos para que seamos buenos corresponsables
de nuestras relaciones. Oramos para que seamos pacientes
con otros, buscando entender mientras deseamos ser
entendidos. Oramos para que a través de la humildad y
el servicio amoroso, nuestras relaciones sean como Dios
intenta que sean.
Para el fin de semana del 10/11 de octubre de 2009
Vigésimo Octavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Jesús hace una dramática declaración referente a la
riqueza en el Evangelio de hoy. Todos nosotros somos ricos
comparados con la mayoría en el mundo. Ocasionalmente,
nuestra sociedad nos genera el desarrollo de una confianza
fuera de lugar, en nuestro dinero y posesiones, en lugar de
la confianza en la generosidad de Dios. Cuando buscamos
seguridad en cosas de riesgo, como nuestras posesiones,
nosotros somos vulnerables a la ansiedad y al miedo. Como
buenos corresponsables, sabemos que nuestras posesiones
no deben poseernos, no sea que interfieran en el camino de
nuestro discipulado.
Para el fin de semana del 17/18 de octubre de 2009
Vigésimo Noveno Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Hoy es Domingo Mundial de las Misiones –un recordatorio
de nuestro llamado a evangelizar. ¿Qué es la evangelización?
Es ser buenos corresponsables del Evangelio. El Evangelio
significa “buenas nuevas”, y el no compartir estas buenas
nuevas sería una corresponsabilidad muy pobre. Nosotros no
tenemos que ser expertos en las escrituras para compartir las
buenas nuevas. Podemos ser una luz para otros, simplemente
con el ejemplo de nuestras vidas –por el amor y servicio de
unos con los otros.
Para el fin de semana del 24/25 de octubre de 2009
Trigésimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
Después de sanar al hombre ciego Jesús le dijo que continuara
su camino. Pero el hombre decidió seguir a Jesús. Ser un
discípulo de Jesús es una elección. La corresponsabilidad
como forma de vida, involucra también una elección, de
hecho muchas elecciones. Nosotros elegimos ser agradecidos,
elegimos vivir con generosidad, y elegimos confiar en que
Dios siempre proveerá de nuestras necesidades. Estas tres
elecciones son el centro de la corresponsabilidad como forma
de vida.
Source: International Catholic Stewardship Council. Courtesy of Dan Potvin, Director of Stewardship and Development, Archdiocese of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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