Dear Friends in Christ,
This week, we find ourselves at the intersection of secular and religious celebrations. Liturgically, this Sunday we focus on the most sublime mystery of our faith: the Holy Trinity. On the secular side, we keep Memorial Day Weekend, a special time to pause and take stock of our freedoms, especially religious liberty, and the women and men who in military service have offered their lives in defense of American ideals. Unofficially, this week also ushers in the Summer season, and for us at OLPH, ‘Summer Mode.’
So, let us step back for a moment and reflect on what Summer Mode is all about. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, we enter into a slower rhythm, or at least that is the idea! On the parish level, that means we do a bit less, which also affords us the time and space to take stock and plan for the coming Fall season. This Summer in particular, we are wrapping up our Capital Campaign, beginning work on some of those key projects, including the Nolan Hall renovations and the HVAC in the rectory, and preparing for the arrival of Fr. Fernando Monsalve. So, it is a full Summer, but one that also requires some extra time and space.
Perhaps one question for you might be: how do you enter “Summer Mode?” What would slowing down to take stock of things look like for you? For me personally, it means more time in my garden, taking longer walks with Gracie, and riding my bike some more! On cycling: I am back riding a bit indoors but have not returned to outdoor riding just yet. I am doing PT, with all the exercises, and hoping to get back to 100% soon! We shall see if I am able to actually join the Anchor House Ride this year. Thank you to everyone who has supported Anchor House and a special thanks to all who have inquired about my welfare in the weeks following my accident. I appreciate your prayers, love, and support!
This is also the season of vacations, heading down the shore, up the mountains, or maybe to a more far-flung destination! Even while you are away, your parish needs your continued support. So, we welcome you to be intentional about your stewardship and try out electronic giving via the Givelify App. It is easy to set up recurring gifts on the card of your choice. Thank you for the many ways you support our parish family!
Finally, the deepest part of taking stock during the Summer is to spend more time with God, to deepen the life of the Trinity in us, to remind ourselves how much we are loved by the Father through stillness and communion with Him. Perhaps this weekend’s focus on the Trinity is an invitation to spend this Summer deepening our connection to the one who is Life itself! Possibly there is some spiritual reading you can set aside 15-30 minutes each day for. Your spirit will thank you that you have sought the deeper purpose of the Summer, slowing down to allow God to fill us up! Maybe revisiting Slowing Down to the Speed of Joy would assist your transition to summer mode.
Christ’s peace be with you!
Fr. Joel
