Last Sunday night, I went to the Youth Mass for the first
time at the old church in my parish down here in NC. My only regret is that I hadn’t discovered
this gem of a mass sooner as the teens’ singing, the children leading the mass,
and the excellent homily were all a joy to behold. Even though I attended parochial elementary
school in Pennsylvania, this mass held at the smaller scaled down version of
the IHM Church I am used to in NC, felt like home. Sitting in the pew with Melanie, listening to
the youth sing and enjoying all the families sitting around me, I felt like I
was sitting in Annunciation or St. Joseph’s in Frackville. What happy memories from my childhood sitting
in this Youth Mass, as an adult, brought back for me…!
On the way to mass, a friend had texted me his prayer
intentions, one of which was this: “To be a better Catholic, and know the Church
teaches Truth infallibly, and to defend the Faith-always”. These words were on my mind as I listened to
last Sunday’s gospel, that happened to be about doubting Thomas (John 20:19-31). Here are the notes I took from Fr. Tom’s
homily:
Be honest with struggles and respectful of others who
have faith (then he shared stories about St. Christopher and St. Thomas). He brought up Chapter 11 in which Jesus raised
Lazarus when He said, “Let us go and see my friend Lazarus” to which Jesus’
followers said, “No, it’s too dangerous!”
However, Thomas said, “Let us go with Jesus and die with Him.” For Thomas believed it was better to die with
Jesus than to live without Him. Fr. Tom
then explained the suffering Jesus endured on Good Friday weighed on Thomas’
heart because none of the Apostles were there when Jesus died. Evangelist John wrote the Gospel for future
generations to enter into a relationship with Jesus and to believe Jesus is the
Messiah.
Next, Fr. Tom said the people who struggle to enter into
relationships of trust must keep trying and lead us into FAITH. As Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have
not seen Me but believe”. Fr. Tom next
stated, “Faith is never a certainty.
Live in the questions (there will be dark nights, lonely struggles, we
will ask, ‘Where is God?’, ‘Why isn’t He helping me?’, can he change the bad to
good?). There will be times we won’t
feel God’s presence in our lives.
However, we CAN and should be Christ-bearers and honest about our
struggles.
Pope Benedict: “World
of reason and world of faith need each other; we need to be grounded in reality
and share our gifts with others without strong faith but be honest and help
others”.
Fr. Tom ended the homily by reminding us that it is
currently the Year of Faith. He asked
us, the congregation, how can we share our faith with others in ordinary little
ways? We can do this by living lives of
service. As Thomas said, “My Lord, My
God!”.
Fast forward one week to tonight and I again found myself in the pew at the old IHM enjoying the Youth Mass, again with Melanie and also with Shelley. I'm so grateful for my church friends from the YA groups. That truly has been one of the blessings of living in NC as there were no local YAs where I was living in York, PA. While I absolutely adore the friends I've made in Lancaster, Harrisburg, and other surrounding areas, it gets tiring always being the one to travel 30 to 60 minutes from home to be with like-minded young adults. On nights like these, I often wonder where I will end up in 1 short year and if there will be an established YA group there or will I go back to my solitary church ways yet again?
Anyhow, here are the notes I took from Deacon Wally's homily tonight:
The gospel reading came from John 21:1-19 (story of fishing with no luck until Jesus arrived).
Deacon Wally reminded us that when we encounter Jesus, it's always a new beginning! Jesus asked Simon Peter if he loved Him three times. Simon Peter answered as if he had been waiting and ready to answer this question all his life. To love Jesus means to love others. We are called to witness. You never know where God will take you or what He will ask of you. We must be willing to listen. Our Lord continues to ask us, "Do you love Me?" Lots of people need caring for and help. We are called to be witnesses by what we say and do!! Easter is not confined to a single day since Jesus is in all of us!!
As I pondered this gospel reading and Deacon Wally's words tonight, I couldn't help but think about some things I had heard from yesterday's speakers at the Ignited by Truth Catholic Conference in Raleigh as well. Thinking back on the story of the men fishing all night with no luck, then upon following Jesus' instruction, they obtained more fish than they knew what to do with....I couldn't help but think of times in my life where I have failed time and time again trying to do things my way. Yet when I allow myself to be open and try to do things God's way (as I should have done all along), the outcome is more successful. When will I learn to just get out of God's way and to "let go and Let God"??
I think this move down to NC has been a HUGE stepping stone in relinquishing what I thought my plan was and following God's plan. Now, if only I could just keep up the momentum and see where this plan will take me. It's a scary and daunting task but I'm up for the challenge...I think. As Deacon Wally said tonight, it's always a new beginning!!
In thinking about Jesus seeking assurance from Simon Peter three times, I thought about how we can be that way with our parents, loved ones, and friends. "Are you sure you know the way? We're going to be late, don't you think we should pull over and seek directions?" Or "Does she like me? Is she mad at me? Why did she say that if she isn't? What do you think she meant by (fill in the blank)?" We are all constantly seeking approval or assurances.
I would hope that Jesus wouldn't have to ask me those questions Simon Peter had to answer. In putting myself into the conversation, I can't help but think about Rachel Joy Scott's story from the Columbine massacre that took place when I was in college. She courageously stood up for her faith and God when asked if she was a Christian. She could have said no and tried to spare her life but she looked at her murderers and said yes. This video I just viewed on Youtube shares more information about this above average martyr (excuse the grammar/spelling errors in the video..also some of the images are graphic). Rachel's story came up yesterday at the conference when my friend and I were discussing being witnesses to our faith. I suppose if you were in a situation like that you would not know what you would do but it would be nice to think that you would be courageous and strong enough to stand up for what you believe in....
Another parallel I made between tonight's homily and one of the speakers yesterday was the question about asking for love. Dr. Barber said yesterday, when talking about prayer, that what you seek or want the most becomes the object of your thoughts/desires/prayers. If one is only seeking love through a future spouse, and not focusing on his or her relationship with others and God, then that desire for spousal love may take over...think about the conversations you have with your friends (this goes to both the guys and girls out there). I would be willing to bet 8 out of 10 times, the topic of discussion is on seeking a partner or wishing for one. I mean, pick up any magazine on a newsstand and you'll find a plethora of articles related to how to get that perfect dream girl and how to make your man happy and what to do if you're single to not be single, and blah, blah, blah. I've said it elsewhere in my blog postings, that perhaps it would be better to focus your desire and attention on God and the rest will follow...as it is only in God's perfect timing that you will be brought to the one He created for you. Lord knows I've botched up a time or two when I thought my way was better, faster, more convenient, more fun....but is short lived pleasure better than long lasting joy?
Having said all this, I do admit that when Deacon Wally said that when Simon Peter answered Jesus, it was like he had been prepping for that moment all his life. I do know that when my future husband asks me, should it be God's will for me to marry, if I love him, I will answer with a resounding yes as Simon Peter did.
Anyhow, I agree with Fr. Tom and Deacon Wally in that we are all Christophers in that we should strive to literally bear Christ through our actions and words. Yesterday's retreat was so full of blessings and graces that I wish I could go to it every day and not just once a year!!
Below are my notes, if you can read my chicken scratch that is, from the Ignited by Truth Catholic Conference in Raleigh. The notes start at the bottom right hand corner in blue ink. The previous notes are others I had taken at the Room at the Inn pro-life banquet and during a homily at the Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Maryland on St. Patrick's Day....Back to IBT, this was my 3rd year going (personally, I think it was the BEST year yet!!) and I can't wait for next year!!!
In case you couldn't tell by my scribbled notes, I could barely keep up with all that I was hearing yesterday....these retreat type experiences are so inspiring and truly do ignite those of us who attend!! It's a shame that this conference is only put on once a year, however, the good news is that the Young Adult Retreat held in Malvern, PA is happening in early May so I will get my fill of peaceful rejuvenation then! Check out their Facebook page or if you're not on Facebook, below are the details! Hope to see you there!!
An Overnight 24-hr. Retreat for Men & Women in their 20s & 30s, single or married
Want to know what gifts God gave you?
All men and women (ages 20s & 30s) are welcome to attend our NEW Young Adult Retreat "Changing Water into Wine--Becoming the Person God Created You to Be" on Fri., May 10 to Sat., May 11!
This overnight retreat, led by Fr. Charles Zlock, will help you discover which of the 24 spiritual gifts God has blessed you with using a "Catholic Spiritual Gifts Inventory." Talks and small group discussions will focus on how to develop these God-given gifts, deepen your prayer life, and help further The Kingdom of God. This retreat also includes Holy Hour, Examination of Conscience, and Mass.
Cost: $100 per person (includes all meals and private room)
Deposit: $50 due with registration
Check-in Friday at 5pm; Saturday departure at 5pm
Register early! Visit www.MalvernRetreat.com
or call 610-644-0400 to reserve your spot on this retreat!
Click this link to see the PDF flyer http://
Here are some pictures from the YA Retreats I attended in 2011 & 2012 followed by pictures from yesterday's IBT 2013 Conference!! Please don't hesitate to contact me if you want more information on IBT, the YA Retreat, or the 2nd Annual Women's Retreat Weekend that is coming up in July!! Pax!!
Fast forward one week to tonight and I again found myself in the pew at the old IHM enjoying the Youth Mass, again with Melanie and also with Shelley. I'm so grateful for my church friends from the YA groups. That truly has been one of the blessings of living in NC as there were no local YAs where I was living in York, PA. While I absolutely adore the friends I've made in Lancaster, Harrisburg, and other surrounding areas, it gets tiring always being the one to travel 30 to 60 minutes from home to be with like-minded young adults. On nights like these, I often wonder where I will end up in 1 short year and if there will be an established YA group there or will I go back to my solitary church ways yet again?
Anyhow, here are the notes I took from Deacon Wally's homily tonight:
The gospel reading came from John 21:1-19 (story of fishing with no luck until Jesus arrived).
Deacon Wally reminded us that when we encounter Jesus, it's always a new beginning! Jesus asked Simon Peter if he loved Him three times. Simon Peter answered as if he had been waiting and ready to answer this question all his life. To love Jesus means to love others. We are called to witness. You never know where God will take you or what He will ask of you. We must be willing to listen. Our Lord continues to ask us, "Do you love Me?" Lots of people need caring for and help. We are called to be witnesses by what we say and do!! Easter is not confined to a single day since Jesus is in all of us!!
As I pondered this gospel reading and Deacon Wally's words tonight, I couldn't help but think about some things I had heard from yesterday's speakers at the Ignited by Truth Catholic Conference in Raleigh as well. Thinking back on the story of the men fishing all night with no luck, then upon following Jesus' instruction, they obtained more fish than they knew what to do with....I couldn't help but think of times in my life where I have failed time and time again trying to do things my way. Yet when I allow myself to be open and try to do things God's way (as I should have done all along), the outcome is more successful. When will I learn to just get out of God's way and to "let go and Let God"??
I think this move down to NC has been a HUGE stepping stone in relinquishing what I thought my plan was and following God's plan. Now, if only I could just keep up the momentum and see where this plan will take me. It's a scary and daunting task but I'm up for the challenge...I think. As Deacon Wally said tonight, it's always a new beginning!!
In thinking about Jesus seeking assurance from Simon Peter three times, I thought about how we can be that way with our parents, loved ones, and friends. "Are you sure you know the way? We're going to be late, don't you think we should pull over and seek directions?" Or "Does she like me? Is she mad at me? Why did she say that if she isn't? What do you think she meant by (fill in the blank)?" We are all constantly seeking approval or assurances.
I would hope that Jesus wouldn't have to ask me those questions Simon Peter had to answer. In putting myself into the conversation, I can't help but think about Rachel Joy Scott's story from the Columbine massacre that took place when I was in college. She courageously stood up for her faith and God when asked if she was a Christian. She could have said no and tried to spare her life but she looked at her murderers and said yes. This video I just viewed on Youtube shares more information about this above average martyr (excuse the grammar/spelling errors in the video..also some of the images are graphic). Rachel's story came up yesterday at the conference when my friend and I were discussing being witnesses to our faith. I suppose if you were in a situation like that you would not know what you would do but it would be nice to think that you would be courageous and strong enough to stand up for what you believe in....
Another parallel I made between tonight's homily and one of the speakers yesterday was the question about asking for love. Dr. Barber said yesterday, when talking about prayer, that what you seek or want the most becomes the object of your thoughts/desires/prayers. If one is only seeking love through a future spouse, and not focusing on his or her relationship with others and God, then that desire for spousal love may take over...think about the conversations you have with your friends (this goes to both the guys and girls out there). I would be willing to bet 8 out of 10 times, the topic of discussion is on seeking a partner or wishing for one. I mean, pick up any magazine on a newsstand and you'll find a plethora of articles related to how to get that perfect dream girl and how to make your man happy and what to do if you're single to not be single, and blah, blah, blah. I've said it elsewhere in my blog postings, that perhaps it would be better to focus your desire and attention on God and the rest will follow...as it is only in God's perfect timing that you will be brought to the one He created for you. Lord knows I've botched up a time or two when I thought my way was better, faster, more convenient, more fun....but is short lived pleasure better than long lasting joy?
Having said all this, I do admit that when Deacon Wally said that when Simon Peter answered Jesus, it was like he had been prepping for that moment all his life. I do know that when my future husband asks me, should it be God's will for me to marry, if I love him, I will answer with a resounding yes as Simon Peter did.
Anyhow, I agree with Fr. Tom and Deacon Wally in that we are all Christophers in that we should strive to literally bear Christ through our actions and words. Yesterday's retreat was so full of blessings and graces that I wish I could go to it every day and not just once a year!!
Below are my notes, if you can read my chicken scratch that is, from the Ignited by Truth Catholic Conference in Raleigh. The notes start at the bottom right hand corner in blue ink. The previous notes are others I had taken at the Room at the Inn pro-life banquet and during a homily at the Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Maryland on St. Patrick's Day....Back to IBT, this was my 3rd year going (personally, I think it was the BEST year yet!!) and I can't wait for next year!!!
In case you couldn't tell by my scribbled notes, I could barely keep up with all that I was hearing yesterday....these retreat type experiences are so inspiring and truly do ignite those of us who attend!! It's a shame that this conference is only put on once a year, however, the good news is that the Young Adult Retreat held in Malvern, PA is happening in early May so I will get my fill of peaceful rejuvenation then! Check out their Facebook page or if you're not on Facebook, below are the details! Hope to see you there!!
An Overnight 24-hr. Retreat for Men & Women in their 20s & 30s, single or married
Want to know what gifts God gave you?
All men and women (ages 20s & 30s) are welcome to attend our NEW Young Adult Retreat "Changing Water into Wine--Becoming the Person God Created You to Be" on Fri., May 10 to Sat., May 11!
This overnight retreat, led by Fr. Charles Zlock, will help you discover which of the 24 spiritual gifts God has blessed you with using a "Catholic Spiritual Gifts Inventory." Talks and small group discussions will focus on how to develop these God-given gifts, deepen your prayer life, and help further The Kingdom of God. This retreat also includes Holy Hour, Examination of Conscience, and Mass.
Cost: $100 per person (includes all meals and private room)
Deposit: $50 due with registration
Check-in Friday at 5pm; Saturday departure at 5pm
Register early! Visit www.MalvernRetreat.com
Click this link to see the PDF flyer http://
Here are some pictures from the YA Retreats I attended in 2011 & 2012 followed by pictures from yesterday's IBT 2013 Conference!! Please don't hesitate to contact me if you want more information on IBT, the YA Retreat, or the 2nd Annual Women's Retreat Weekend that is coming up in July!! Pax!!
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| Natsuko, from school, joined my church friends and me at the ballgame the other night! |
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| First fireworks of the season after the game |
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| Blessed be the day that the Lord has made!! I loved watching the sun rise in the blue sky above as I started my trek toward Burlington then Raleigh for IBT 2013!! |
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| Dr. Scott Hahn during his morning talk |
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| I can't wait to read the 2 books I bought that were written by none other than Dr. Hahn! I also got excited in this area of the vendors because behind me you can see some icons. My new friend, Britta, is using her artistic talent to make one of St. Francis for me and I can hardly wait to a.) meet her and b.) see her beautiful work in person in May!! |
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| Dr. Barber |
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| Hehe. |
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| Fr. Michael Schmitz...if you haven't already listened to his Catholic Lighthouse CD on love, go listen to it! He also talked about Minneapolis a lot, which was pretty neat since I had been there for the first time in October for a conference presentation. |
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| Yay for St./Pope Francis! :) |
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| Sporting the front of our Francis shirts! |
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| Kevin, Greg, & Glenn ~ my first 3 NC friends! |
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| Lila Rose spoke about her work in exposing Planned Parenthood's practices by going undercover. She is only 25 but has done so much through following her calling....what a beautiful inspiration!! |
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| Eric got up at the crack of dawn and drove 3 hours all the way from Richmond, VA (and back) to attend his first IBT in Raleigh!! I sure do admire him and what a testament to his faith to do that!! |
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| This St. Philomena Chaplet made me think of my dear friend, Lisa! :) I so wish we lived closer to each other so that we could attend these events together! So, for now, the blog posting and pictures will have to suffice! |
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