Dear Parishioners,
We are quickly approaching Election Day and the armed encampments of all sides are readying for battle. If we think the populace is polarized today, we need to read about the Pope and Martyr, Callistus I, whom we celebrate in today’s liturgy.
Callistus was elected Pope by the clergy and laity of Rome in the year 217.
The results of his election did not sit well with the runner up, Hippolytus. As in most elections, both men were on opposite sides of the issues, especially on church doctrine and Church discipline. While Callistus saw his leniency as the compassion of Christ, Hippolytus did not agree. Hippolytus would become the first “anti-pope” in church history in a schism that would last for 18 years.
So, in our time of differences and entrenched political ideas, perhaps the best thing we can do is to pray for peaceful resolution of differences in Church and in society!
The journey continues…actively responding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Fr. Mark
