April 5, 2009
God's Business
Each year the people of Israel traveled to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. This weekend we commemorate Jesus’ triumphant entry into the holy city as we celebrate Palm Sunday. But amidst the processions back then, there were all kinds of business dealings going on -- and alas for Jesus, one of these was the business about his arrest, trial and crucifixion. Yet in the large plan of things, Jesus was about his Father’s “business” -- forgiving and saving the world.
This year, as we gather our modern-day crowds for the Palm Sunday feast, we’ve got some business to take care of too. You can read our annual financial report in the center pages of this bulletin. Yes I know it’s not the most “spiritual” reading of the week, but it gives a picture of how we’re able to teach, pray, help the poor, take care of facilities, etc. -- there’s a LOT of spiritual and charitable work that is done each year and the report shows what supports all of this.
Another exciting piece of business is the announcement of our “Extreme Makeover” project for Saint Anthony’s Hall. We’re inviting members of the community to share their labor, materials, time and talent to renovate the second floor of this building. Read all about it here.
But the best “business” is what’s coming up this week. It’s Holy Week and we gather for the great three days: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday night when we celebrate the great Vigil of Easter. If you’ve never experienced the 8pm Holy Thursday liturgy or the 3:15pm Good Friday Liturgy of the Passion of the Lord, or the 8pm Easter Vigil, perhaps this is the year you’ll take part in these powerful celebrations. (On Good Friday, the Liturgy of the Passion takes place in three locations in three different languages.) Click here for the full Holy Week schedule.
This is also a week for some quiet prayer time. It would be good to fast from the noises of our life -- tv, radio, computer, ipod, unnecessary phone calls, etc. (especially on Good Friday) and let the silence be an invitation to experience God’s presence in the midst of the business of our lives,
