Actions speak louder than words
The two great actions that are given to us; One, be reconciled to God; Two, do this in remembrance of me. Part of our Catholic tradition has always emphasised sacrament and sacramental actions. In the past fish on Friday, fasting from mid-night, the use of Holy Water, regular confessions, encouragement to visit shrines or monasteries, all gave real expression to our Catholic Christian faith.
Recently I attended a priest’s funeral – Father Ken Freeman’s—from my own generation. A lovely man and the packed church was a tribute to his priesthood. The homily picked up upon a moment from the preface of the Chrism mass which takes place on Wednesday of Holy Week. All the priests are encouraged to join with the Bishop in this most important celebration. The moment I refer to is at the heart of our responsibilities as priests.
He (Jesus) calls them to lead your Holy people in love, nourish them with your word, and strengthen them through the sacraments.
This is why I was very disappointed by the small number of people present at our celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation at St Wilfrid’s. Deacon John presented a well prepared liturgy, and even if one did not wish to celebrate the sacrament, great value was provided (as one parishioner pointed out) by the reading from St James.
It really spoke to the heart, leaving deep conviction of our failures and our need for God’s reconciling love. It also presented us, as a community, with a chance to give thanks to God for the great sacrament of pardon and peace. I am sure I failed to communicate its importance. Please God with the help of the Leaven groups we will find the times that are best for this celebration. This reconciliation happened in a very good way at St George’s as part of our devotions on the first Friday of the month.
With my love and prayers for you all
