Today’s texts clearly point out the theme of hospitality as something pleasing to God. Abraham, in the first reading, shares this gift with God’s messengers. So does Jesus when he talks with Martha and Mary at their home. Saint Paul brings out the theme in a special way when he writes to the Colossians and offers the hospitality of his heart because they are willing to hear the preaching of Christ through him. As we reflect on this theme, we should examine how open our parish ministries are to people who may want to join them as members from other cultures or races or as speakers of other languages. We should evaluate what the community can offer at this time in history when it seems that some feel their traditions are threatened by newcomers. The arrival of new members enthusiastic about the faith and the Church can lead to changes in a community. Communities should prepare for these changes with the help of the parish priest and other leaders who can advise them. Eventually, these changes can be reflected on during liturgical celebrations.
July 21, 2019 2:25 pm
Today’s texts clearly point out the theme of hospitality as something pleasing to God. Abraham, in the first reading, shares this gift with God’s messengers. So does Jesus when he talks with Martha and Mary at their home. Saint Paul brings out the theme in a special way when he writes to the Colossians and offers the hospitality of his heart because they are willing to hear the preaching of Christ through him. As we reflect on this theme, we should examine how open our parish ministries are to people who may want to join them as members from other cultures or races or as speakers of other languages. We should evaluate what the community can offer at this time in history when it seems that some feel their traditions are threatened by newcomers. The arrival of new members enthusiastic about the faith and the Church can lead to changes in a community. Communities should prepare for these changes with the help of the parish priest and other leaders who can advise them. Eventually, these changes can be reflected on during liturgical celebrations.