Dear Parishioners,
Today we celebrate and honor one of the great women of our church, St. Teresa of Avila (Teresa of Jesus). Teresa lived in the 16th century as a cloistered nun. She desired a simpler way of living and is known for her mystical encounters with Jesus. Her spiritual writings are renowned while she also advocated for the reform of her religious order. In 1970, St. Teresa was declared a Doctor of the Church. While her writings still carry much weight, her desire for reform was met with strong opposition.
In our scriptures today, we hear: “Woe to you, scholars of the law! You have taken away the key of knowledge.” Jesus invites us into relationship and leads us to a new reality and spirituality. Just as parents are the first teachers of their children, we are all called to catechize one another in the ways of faith through our own relationship to Christ.
The journey continues…small or large…with our contribution bringing about peace in conflict or spiritual growth in ourselves and others.
Blessings,
Fr. Mark
