Monday Message, May 3, 2021
Happy May.
Know
Pope Francis has asked the faithful to pray the Rosary every day in May for an end to the pandemic. We have you covered here in terms of prayers, links to the livestream, and great resources.
Last week’s parish check in was an exciting, honest, and passionate conversation. You can see it here.
Springtide Research Institute has some great new information about the inner and outer lives of Gen Z. Josh Packard will be joining us in May for a conversation. Stay tuned.
If you have young people who have special needs and are in need of sacramental formation, Helen Burland from St. Catherine Center for Special Needs has some formation kits for your use. Be aware that November 7th is the date for conferring of sacraments at St. Catherine Center, so check in with Helen if you need anything.
This Update for April 2021 went out to pastors last week in case you have not seen it.
Reflect
There is a story about Picasso that goes something like this.
Picasso was having a drink in a restaurant – probably a traditional French pavement cafe.
The admirer recognised him and exclaimed “Oh my goodness, are you the famous Pablo Picasso?” the painter nodded modestly, and the admirer went on to ask the famous painter to sign her napkin.
Picasso was happy to oblige and didn’t seem to mind the interruption at all, in fact he went one step further and added a small sketch.
But as he handed over the drawing he asked for a considerable amount of money in exchange.
The admirer was horrified, “But that only took you five minutes!” she exclaimed.
Picasso leaned over, carefully took the napkin back and said “No, dear lady, that took me a lifetime.”
I have been thinking about that story for the last few days. We must never undervalue what we do as coworkers in ministry. Picasso did not become a great artists overnight. It took years. It took failure. It took frustration. It took courage.
May all those things also be true for you and me. May we continue to spread the Good News willingly and with great confidence. And when we realize no one is listening, may we have the courage to change the way we teach so that we may always be effective, engaging, and relevant.
Laugh
