I’m old enough to remember when Presidents’ Day was to honor George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. When I was in grade school, we actually had their birthdays off. Now we honor all the presidents, the good as well as the bad.
Our readings today talk about free will. We are free to choose to do good or evil. Sirach says: “Before man are life and death, good and evil, whichever he chooses shall be given to him.” In the Gospel, Jesus teaches his disciples to go even further than the law requires. The last line really resonates with today: “Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes’, and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.” St. Paul continues this theme when he speaks of the wisdom that comes from the Holy Spirit.
Plan ahead! I have reserved the Berta Shelter at St. Patrick’s Park for August 30 for our Annual Picnic. It is the Sunday closest to the Feast of St. Augustine. I promise it will not snow that day!
Every year by tradition of the diocese, I print out a contribution statement for each family for tax purposes. Every year only a few parishioners pick them up. This year I will put out a sign-up sheet for those who want them. It is in the foyer. So, please sign-up on that sheet, if you want a statement.
Let us continue to pray for peace in the world. Let us also pray for vocations to the church. Let us pray for the sick of the parish. Let us pray that all will come to respect life. Let us pray for one another and for the canonization of Father Tolton. Let us also pray for those who are victims of sexual abuse and mass shootings.
A Venerable Father Tolton Prayer: Father in Heaven, the Venerable Father Tolton’s suffering service sheds light upon our sorrows; we see them through the prism of your Son’s passion and death. If it be your Will, O God, glorify your servant Father Tolton, by granting the favor I now request through his intercession (mention your request) so that all may know the goodness of this priest whose memory looms large in the Church he loved. Complete what you have begun in us that we might work for the fulfillment of your kingdom. Not to us the glory, but glory to you O God, through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are our God, living and reigning forever and ever. Amen.
Learn a little Black History this month by reading our parish Josephite calendar. There are daily notes and spread throughout the calendar there are quick biographies of six African Americans being considered for sainthood in the Church.