Stronger Together

One of the more noticeable changes coinciding with the new priest assignments this July involves having more than one priest in each pastorate. Jesus Himself sent out His Apostles and disciples two by two to proclaim the coming of God’s kingdom. Each person and priest is necessarily limited. Each is gifted in different ways and in different areas. While the changes will no doubt bring many difficulties and challenges, hopefully this opportunity to have more members of our clergy involved in each of our parishes will be an enriching experience.

The same can be true in other areas of parish life as well. As those who taught religious education or CCD shared with me at the end of this academic year, having more than one teacher per class can be a great help, not just with busy schedules and things that come up, but also in helping the students to focus when both teachers are present, and being able to use the different strengths of each teacher according to the content and presentation of different lessons throughout the year. As our coordinators ask and look for teachers for this fall, keep in mind the possibility and benefit of teaching with a partner. What can seem intimidating to take on by yourself is much more manageable when we work together.

It’s not too early to begin praying and considering if teaching religious education is something God is asking of you during this coming year. If we want it to continue here more locally in our individual parishes, then we need to show that it’s a strong program we are invested in, rather than scrambling for teachers at the last minute each year.

As I come to the end of my assignment in these parishes, I just want to express my sincere gratitude for all of you. We may not always see eye to eye on everything, but it has been a tremendous privilege for me to be a part of your baptisms, anointings, weddings, funerals, confirmations, confessions, celebrations of the Eucharist, and your walk with God in any of its aspects. Know that Christ loves you and wants to live in you, to bring you to a far more abundant life and greener pastures than anything this passing world can offer. To Him be glory and honor for ever. Amen.