https://www.holyfamilywoodruff.org https://www.holyfamilywoodruff.org/beautifuleucharist <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Beautiful Eucharist: Your Invitation Awaits <br/> </span> </h2> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> If you didn’t receive your free copy of Matthew Kelly’s Beautiful Eucharist book, see Kathy or Judy in the parish office. There may still be a few extra copies. </span> </h2> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> In the concluding chapter (“Get Close and Stay Close”), Matthew Kelly shares reflections on the precious gift of Jesus’ Real Presence in the Eucharist. Among his thoughts, he says, “Have you ever wondered why we build such beautiful churches? I can tell you this: It’s not about the art or architecture. It’s because we believe that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist.”  </span> </p> <p> <span> A bit later, he relates, “All the answers are in the tabernacle. Jesus has all the answers and he patiently waits for us in the tabernacle, day and night, to share those answers with us. Next time you are grappling with a decision, stop by your church and ask Jesus for his advice.”  </span> </p> <p> <span> Pointing out that Jesus often left his disciples and the crowds for a quiet place to pray, Kelly asks us, “If Jesus needed this time in silence and solitude, how much more do you think we need it? The world is a busy and noisy place, and all of that tends to distract us from what matters most. It is getting harder and harder to find a quiet place in this world, but one of the great gifts the Catholic Church gives to us all is places that are set apart for quiet reflection.”  </span> </p> <p> <span> Summing up his chapter Kelly says, “Experience has taught me time and time again that all the answers are in that tabernacle…. So here is my invitation to you: Stop by a church ten minutes each day this week and spend time in the quiet. Sit before Jesus in the tabernacle…. You will find that your days are more fruitful and focused, and filled with a passion that is invigorating and a joy that is intoxicating. Jesus awaits you in the Eucharist. Come into the silence and let Him change your life.” </span> </p> <p> <strong> Your invitation to rest in the Real Presence of Jesus in the tabernacle awaits. How will you RSVP?  </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Share your thoughts and see how others are responding by joining the conversation in the "Comments" section below.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> He is risen! May the miracle of Easter bring you peace and joy. </span> </p> <p> <span> Bob </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> </div> Sat, 20 Apr 2024 12:28:16 GMT https://www.holyfamilywoodruff.org/beautifuleucharist thumbnail main image https://www.holyfamilywoodruff.org/baptism <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> “We are called to live our baptism every day, as new creatures, clothed in Christ.” </span> </h3> <p> <span> — Pope Francis <span>  </span> </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> What reference point do you use when making decisions? Many times, impulse takes control and decisions are made based solely on emotion and desire. We all know that these types of decisions can often get us into trouble. When a person has a confident sense of who they are and a real understanding of what is important and of value, the likelihood of kneejerk impulsive choices diminishes. Baptism gives us what we need to make well informed and purposeful decisions. By this simple gesture, God claims us as His own and provides us with the identity and purpose we need to properly live life. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It is tremendously reassuring, when we truly embrace this revelation and realize that we no longer have to wonder about the purpose of our lives or struggle to find our way. The answer of who we are in God has been given to us. We no longer have to fumble around, trip over ourselves or walk aimlessly about. Issues surrounding the sacredness of life, the meaning of death, the protection of those most vulnerable, care for the weak and the poor, offering hospitality to those in search of a home, the purpose and proper place of work, how to create a just social order, caring for creation, and understanding our roles as heralds and stewards are just a few of the wonderful gifts baptism brings. When we make decisions based on things such as these core Gospel truths we really act as Christ himself, revealing to others the new creations that we are. This is how we live our baptism. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It is difficult to walk against the tide. Yet, that is precisely what baptism calls us to do. Although we are sinners, in need of mercy and far from perfection we are called to order our life and make decisions based upon the wisdom and guidance of Almighty God. He alone is the one who can claim us as His sons and daughters. Standing up for our principles will not make us popular. But who ever said Christianity is a popularity contest? Baptism calls us to stand up for that which goes against the grain of secularism. Standing in line with other sinners, we have our anchor to steady us in the tempests of life and God is very pleased. Forge ahead. There is nothing to fear. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> ©LPi </span> </p> </div> Mon, 08 Apr 2019 13:16:32 GMT test@4lpi.com (Web Team) https://www.holyfamilywoodruff.org/baptism thumbnail main image