Let's continue one aspect of yesterday's posting: the duty to be teachers of the Commandments as well as what we are called to believe and practice as members of the Body of Christ in the Roman Catholic Church.
At a time when John Paul II issued a new Catechism for the Catholic Church; a time when the American Bishops published a new catechism for adult American Catholic. Here are two question with revealing answers. Did you purchase either of these catechisms? If you did, have you ever read the volume or any part of it?
Jesus spoke to the Jewish people often. His words and works testify what the Father wanted him to proclaim, to teach, to speak. Most theologians believe that Jesus, during the 40 days in the desert, came to understand his mission from the Father.
We are no different: the teachings of our Church have been taught us so that, fortified with graces from our Baptisms, Confirmations and other sacraments, especially our frequent reception of the grace-renewing Sacrament of Holy Eucharist, each of us can proclaim the works the Father has entrusted to us. Carrying his message to the world and to others AS WELL AS OURSELVES, is not the sole duty of those in the clergy or religious life state. It is a responsibility of every baptized person.
During the remaining days of Lent, let there be some time to study anew at least some of the contents of the new catechisms for adult Catholics. Without our own understanding of the articles of our faith, how else can we bring what we value to others? Surely this is a challenge for all of us and, dare I say, for those of us who are older. As one comedian was want to say: ""It just ain't the same now as it was when we was kids."
So, if you can, find a tree. Better yet, if you can find a tree near Caribbean waters, like above, take some time to reflect on a few of the articles in the catechism. You will learn much and partake of the joy of peace and quiet.
