Jesus tells us, “Where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” This has traditionally been interpreted as our need to detach ourselves from the things of this world – especially the accumulation of wealth – and to attach ourselves more fully to God, the Giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). It’s a good interpretation. And we should spend some time pondering the question: What greater sign of detachment is there than for us to give away our wealth?
Jesus Christ is risen every day of the year and for all eternity. Every Sunday is really a “mini Easter.” Yet, our Church devotes a specific time to celebrate the glory of His Resurrection. Easter isn’t just one day, it’s a whole season, and humans are designed to live in a seasonal world.
If you are a parent at St. Faustina, Emily Kucherka wants you to know that “Now is the time to continue watering the seed of Faith that was planted in your children at their Baptism”. As many children prepare to receive their First Communion, this message is particularly important. “First Communion and First Reconciliation are life-long Sacraments,” Emily tell us. In other words, the reception of these sacraments can be the “First” of many encounters with Jesus in the Eucharist and His Mercy in the Confessional. The sacraments are such an incredible gift to our lives--gifts we can return to again and again.
Fourteen years ago when Adriana Gamboa was first asked to consider becoming an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC), she had some doubts. She didn’t feel qualified for the position, but she was encouraged to, “Remember this is not a privilege, it’s a service. Don’t answer now, pray about it.”
Every family needs to be reminded of its history - its story. The family story binds present generations to past and future generations. It grounds us, gives us our identity, and offers direction for our lives.
Holy Week will begin in just a few days. Some of us may be anxious about household Easter tasks and hosting family, and others may be excited to finally dig into treats given up during Lent. Still, others may be sad that Lent didn’t turn out how they had planned. Perhaps you can relate to all those emotions.
To ensure that the Eucharist is received with reverence, the Church has given us clear guidelines. These are in place to direct both our inner disposition as well as our external actions as we approach the altar.