A Word of Challenge
“Brothers and sisters,
indeed the Word of God is living and
effective, sharper than any two edged sword,
penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints
and marrow, and able to discern reflections and
thoughts of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)
These words, taken from the second reading at Mass this weekend are indeed a word of challenge. I grew up with reading “Bible stories”; these were taken from the Bible and put into another book. In other words, I was not brought up reading the Bible. Whereas I think I learned a lot from these stories, it was only much later in my life that I actually picked up a Bible and read. Of course, I needed some help, some guidance, some support, and when I actually got into the Word, the Bible became alive for me and it started to have the influence over my life for which it is meant.
I have noticed (and so have many of you by your comments to me) that having the Word printed clearly on the television screens in church while the Word is being proclaimed by the Lector has helped in getting the power of the Word unleased. From my vantage point, I see so many of you following the Word on the screens, and I pray that this will continue to make an impression and form our hearts.
Many are either coming to or tuning into our weekly Bible study on Monday evenings. A person can come in person (7:30 - 8:30pm in the Upper Room); or attend by Zoom; or watch it during the week, all in preparation for Sunday Mass. I encourage and challenge us all to be people formed by the Word of God and not just the daily newscasts! Please go to our parish website for more information.
Two Words of Gratitude
Two weeks ago I was privileged to bless the four new homes in Fullerton built by Habitat for Humanity. St. Timothy Parish is one of the members of the “Catholic Coalition” in our county who not only financially support this work, but also get out there and build the houses. What a blessing for our parish to be part of making homes available for others.
On the weekend of September 4-5, my classmate Father Christopher Smith (rector of Christ Cathedral) spoke at all Masses on behalf of Concern America. He did not take up a collection, but rather gave opportunities after Mass for people to donate should they wish. Well…….that weekend, our parish donated $54,000 to the work of Concern America! This is an over the top record for donations on any one weekend in all of the years that Concern America has been around. Father Smith said to me, “John, your parish has learned the value of sacrificial and generous giving”. I couldn’t agree more.
Monsignor John Urell
