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FROM FR. OAKLAND

Two weeks ago, Jesus gave us the two great commandments: to love God above all else, and our neighbor before ourselves. This is not just warm feelings or strong affections that God is talking about, or love when it is convenient or easy. To put the Lord first, and others before ourselves, requires real sacrifice. Sometimes it is a sacrifice in our will, as we choose or do something other than what we want. Sometimes that sacrifice takes more tangible forms as we live not merely for ourselves. So, we use the resources God has given us for him, and for others. In the Old Covenant, this was the tithe to the Temple (10% of any income or harvest, paid first before any taxes), as well as free offerings of alms to the poor. In the New Covenant, as with many things, Jesus gives us freedom to decide where he and others fit into our lives, for love can’t be compulsory. In St. Paul’s 2^nd letter to the Corinthians, he tells them how he has been bragging to the Macedonians about their generosity in “the service to the holy ones” (9:1).  “Consider this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (9:6-7)

Partners in the Gospel Listening Sessions

Next Session: Sunday, November 1| 3PM | Fr. McGirl Hall, SJ

We are now starting Phase 3 of our Partners in the Gospel journey. During this time, we will be asking "Who does God want us to become?" This is our opportunity to envision what our new one parish could look like. This is more than just some tweaks or adjustments, or looking at the opportunities that were identified in Phase 2, but to really envision what the parish could look like in ten years, for example, striving towards an ideal and our bigger purpose. We will also be brainstorming some possible key initiatives necessary as a part of this. The PFAC will take this information to write a parish Vision Statement and identify 4-6 key initiatives. Please see the Listening Session schedule and invite those you know to participate.