Salutations! How are you today? Hope you are well. The title of this article has a double meaning. The first meaning of the title is that, at times in life, it is appropriate to be wholeheartedly apologetic, that is to say contrite and sorrowful for what one has said or done. When certain words or actions were so hurtful that they left a lasting impact on someone else it is appropriate to express sincere regret and remorse for those decisions.
St. John Paul II believed that it was important to be unapologetically apologetic, making numerous public speeches during his papacy in which he expressed sorrow for the awful things that the Catholic Church had said, done, not said, or not done throughout history. Some criticized the late Holy Father for taking too much responsibility for words or actions that were not done by him but he recognized the importance of truthfully examining the past so as to bring about a change of heart for the present that could lead to a future of greater hope.
The second meaning for the title of this e Newsletter article is connected with the theological virtue of hope, along with faith and love. While a person who is apologetic is oftentimes thought of as being sorrowful and contrite there is an alternative definition for that particular word which means one who defends certain beliefs or practices. As Catholic Christians, we are called to unapologetically defend our beliefs and practices to the world around us. In order to defend these core beliefs and customs that stem from our faith, hope, and love we must get to know them.
This is done especially through earnest prayer, reverent reading of Sacred Scripture, frequent participation in the Sacraments, studying the Catechism of the Catholic Church, examining the lives of the saints, and so much more. Like many parishes across the country and within our Archdiocese we are blessed to have access to a phenomenal resource called FORMED. You can read thought-provoking books, watch inspiring programs, listen to compelling audio presentations, and more to grow in your knowledge and love of God. Ultimately, the goal of these prayers and faith-based practices will enable us to live unapologetically apologetic for the glory of the Lord and the building up of His Kingdom.
