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Last week I began a short lesson on peace. We read in St. John's Gospel that after the Resurrection, Jesus greeted His disciples with "peace." This peace of Christ is different from our common understanding. The peace that Christ gives is not an absence of conflict or difficulty, rather, it is an interior calmness of soul.
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It is important to keep this in mind when, where appropriate, we exchange the "sign of peace" at Mass. There is a twofold meaning here. In the first place, this ritual of the Mass is truly an exchange of peace - but not the peace of the world but rather the peace of Jesus Christ. Second, this act is an act of reconciliation with others.
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Let's look at the first meaning: In this particular part of the Mass, the priest will say: "the peace of the Lord be with you always." And we respond: "and with your spirit". What are we saying, what is the exchange? The priest, acting in persona Christi, speaks the words of Christ to you - words of His peace. That this interior calmness of soul be in you and with you. At that moment, you respond to the priest that the same be the case for him - and with your spirit - that peace be in him and with him as well. Following this exchange, a part of the Mass that is optional, yet important, the deacon or priest will say: "let us offer each other the sign of peace." It ought to be understood that these words mean something. The deacon or priest should not say: "some sign" or "a sign" but "THE sign". Why? This is because of the reason mentioned above - we do not offer just any sign of peace, but the peace of Jesus Christ. It is a very specific directive that cannot be ignored.
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Next week, I will expound a bit on the second meaning of this ritual that focuses on reconciliation. Stay tuned for more...
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CCD Registrations were recently sent in the mail. If you have not received a form and need/want to register your child for CCD please call or stop by the office. CCD begins on September 26th for all grades.
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Fr. Frank's next presentation will take place on Thursday September 23rd at 6:30pm in the parish hall. The topic is on "Catholic Dating." All are welcome!
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Reminder: in addition to Wednesday, the church is open all week for anyone to come and pray (parking lot door is left unlocked everyday from 6am-6pm).
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Theology on Tap: Sep. 24th! Calling our Young Adults ... Join Bishop Byrne and I at Berkshire Brewing Company on Friday Sept 24, 2021 at 6pm for a discussion on Building Catholic Muscles ... young adults ages 21-40 are welcome!
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There will be a Craft Fair meeting on Wednesday September 29th at 6:30pm in the parish hall.
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Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is every Wednesday at 12pm, concluding with Benediction at 6pm.
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Confessions are offered on Wednesdays at 5pm; Saturdays at 3pm and by appointment with Fr. Jon or Fr. Frank.
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There is no new Coffee with FJ, but if you didn't catch the last episode, see below:
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Support Holy Family
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when you shop at Amazon with Amazon Smile!
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Holy Family Roman Catholic Church
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