Today's the day!  Today begins our annual season of fasting, sacrifice, and penance.  Today, Ash Wednesday, happens to be one of the most intense days of Lent because we: 1) begin our sacrifices...sometimes begrudgingly; 2) abstain from meat, which means no cheeseburgers today; 3) take very little food to nourish our bodies; and 4) go to Mass, sometimes after a full day of work and little food.  Yet, this one intense day opens the door to a whole season of detatching ourselves from material things for the sake of spiritual growth.

I was browsing through the Mass readings for each of the first four days of Lent when it hit me.  Lent is about unloading the burdens of your life onto the Lord and receiving His grace and support (cf. Psalm 55:22).  So, when we're trying to figure out what to sacrifice for Lent, our major consideration ought to be: "What's burdening me and keeping me from reaching spiritual heights?"

The First Reading for Mass on Friday after Ash Wednesday says the following:

"Lo, on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits, and drive all your laborers.  Yes, your fast ends in quarreling and fighting, striking with a wicked claw.  Would that today you might fast so as to make your voice heard on high! ... This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own" (Isaiah 58:3-4, 6-7).

Further, in Ash Wednesday's Gospel reading, Jesus exhorts his listeners...AND US..."not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them" (Matthew 6:1); and "When you fast, do not look gloomy..." (Matthew 6:16).

The first thing that we should give up during Lent is our selves!  That's the message of the prophet Isaiah and Jesus in the Gospel.  We do a disservice to our selves and to those around us if our "sacrifice" brings quarreling and/or pride.

This year, I prayed about my sacrifice as never before.  I asked God to reveal to me those things, even small things, that would fulfill the message of Isaiah and Christ.  He showed things to me that were powerful, even if unexpected.  These certainly will prevent me from "turning [my] back on my own"; and they will afford me many opportunities to "not look gloomy" when I'd rather be comfortable and complacent.

After forty days, we'll see if I'm a better man, husband, father, and minister for these sacrifices.  I pray that my sacrifices during Lent will stretch my comfort zones a little bit, draw me outside of my self, and bring me away from the situations that make me complacent.  Indeed, I pray that these sacrifices will allow me to take up my cross and lose my life for Christ's sake (cf. Luke 9:23-24).

So, what are you giving up for Lent?  I'd love to hear about your sacrifices and how God's grace, coupled with prayer, is helping you to be joyful in the midst of them.  Feel free to post a comment on the blog or send an email to me.

If you'd like more resources about Lent (penance, abstaining from meat on Fridays, fasting on certain days, etc.), click here to go to "The Annual Lent Fight" page.

As always, the families of our parish are in my prayers.  God bless!

We might not want to hear someone exclaim the words that entitle this post if it were storming outside.  We might not say it to our children as they accidentally dump juice or milk on the floor while trying to fill a glass.  We should, however, keep pouring out our hearts to the Father of Peace and Mercy!

I have heard many people say, "God doesn't answer my prayers, so I've quit praying."  I've heard even more people say, "I have no idea how to pray.  Where should I start?"  Have you heard these or similar statements from others...or from yourself?  Thankfully, we have answers and we have examples!

The Old Testament reading from today's Mass provides one such example.  Immediately after she had eaten, Hannah got up from the table and entered the temple of the Lord because sh was "deeply distressed and...wept bitterly" (1 Sam. 1:9-10).  Notice that her affliction, distress, and sorrow led her to beg for mercy: "O Lord of hosts...look on the affliction of thy maidservant, and remember me" (1 Sam. 1:11).

Hannah's action may seem a bit odd to a modern reader.  After all, the post-dinner activities in most homes include bath time, story time, teeth brushing, and a few minutes of relaxation while watching Monday Night Football or Survivor.  One thing is clear, though: Hannah was seeking God's mercy because of her great need and distress.  We should mimic her example when we are in the midst of work frustrations, financial struggles, serious illness, and/or rowdy children.

Take note of another thing.  While Hannah was praying, Eli (who was the priest of the temple) "took her to be a drunken woman" (1 Sam. 1:13).  Yes, a person from the surrounding culture thought that her time and method of prayer was a bit odd.  I am sure that many of you, like me, have refrained from praying at certain times or in certain settings because "someone might think I'm weird."  Like Hannah, we must get past the fear of being different than the surrounding culture, which doesn't pray.  Like Hannah, we must only answer, "I have been pouring out my soul before the Lord" (1 Sam. 1:15).

[Photo above, from ponderanew.wordpress.com, is of Haitian women praying after the earthquake in January 2010.]

Regardless of how exhausted or frustrated we are, regardless of how "weird" we might look, we must keep pouring out our souls before the Lord if we wish to receive His peace and mercy.  We must persevere, even if we have asked a thousand times previously.  We must ask in all humility, recognizing that we are weak and frail, but that God is strong.  Only when we begin to pray from the disposition of a humble and weak person in need will God begin to heal our brokenness and allow us to soar to spiritual heights.

So, keep pouring out the joy, gladness, pain, frustration, affliction, and distress that are in your hearts!  The God of Creation hears them, and He will answer them appropriately, in His own time.

If I were to ask Catholics, children, teenagers, and adults alike, what the term "Immaculate Conception" means, I would probably receive the full gamut of responses.  I would get anything from tilted heads and glassy stares to correct answers and beautiful spiritual reflections.  For those at every point along that spectrum, this post is simply to provide a very practical explanation of what this solemn celebration means for Catholics.

[The artwork above fills the aspe of the sanctuary in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Memphis, Tennessee.  It was produced by Conrad Schmitt Studios, Inc., during the cathedral renovation in 2001.]

The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that everything the Church "believes about Mary is based on what it believes about Christ" (Paragraph 487).  The Church knows that God, by His very nature, cannot dwell in a place defiled by sin; and the Church knows that the fullness of divinity is present in Jesus.  So, the Church must conclude that the first earthly home for Jesus, for his human and divine natures, was in a human body that did not bear the stain of any sin, including original sin.

The Church knows that each person inherits original sin at the moment of his/her conception.  Thus, if God wills that a person be protected from the stain of original sin, He must intercede in human history in a unique way.  For these logical reasons, the Church proclaims that "the most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ...preserved from all stain of original sin" (CCC 491; Pope Pius IX).

Because of God's plan to remedy the human malaise, with the Immaculate Conception as a necessary step in that plan, Catholics celebrate.  We hold the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception in such esteem that Catholic school children are out of school, parish offices close for the day, and extra Masses are celebrated.  Yes, it is of such importance that it is a Holy Day of Obligation.

So, as the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception approaches tomorrow, December 8, all families in our parish should do two things: go to Mass and celebrate with joy the fact that God chose a human as part of his plan to save humanity.  Happy solemnity!

Let's admit it: December is the most chaotic month of the year.  There is no doubt that all the merry-go-round gift buying, gift wrapping, donation solicitations, incessant Christmas music, weekly parties with too many calories, and grocery shopping can leave our heads spinning!  At this time of year, so many people feel physically, emotionally, and spiritually overwhelmed...or annoyed.

What can we do to combat this?  The first reading from today's Mass offers the best, most practical solution.  The prophet Isaiah prays, "Thou [God] dost keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusts in thee" (Is. 26:3).

The only way to avoid shopping, solicitations, music, and parties is to become a recluse.  While staying at home to avoid crowds might be nice, we have to remember that the culture needs to see people who are full of joy and peace during this time of year.  So, we must trek out to the malls and neighbors' houses, even if it is begrudgingly.  However, let's not treat these various events as annoyances.

Instead of grumbling all the way Carriage Crossing, let's recognize the opportunity to reveal the peace and joy that Christ brings to our lives.  Before we pull out of the driveway, or as we're searching for that elusive close-by parking spot, let's offer a brief prayers of thanksgiving (as individuals or as families).  Further, let's find one person or group who should receive our donation, even if we have to give up something we want.

Such a prescription will make December more peaceful, even if it is not less chaotic.  See, peace and joy come from the inside out, not vice versa.  Peace and joy will come into the world only from those whose minds and hearts are focused first on trusting Christ.  Peace and joy come from committing the first moments of every party, sale, or baking session to the One who is the Giver of all these wonderful gifts.

I'd love to hear from you!  What help you and your family to maintain joy and peace throughout the chaos of December?  Leave a comment in the box below, or send an email to me.

Enjoy this season!  All of our parishioners are in my prayers: for safety, for happiness, and for peace that comes from no person or thing other than the King of the Universe.

Not a few Catholic adults, teens, and children would admit that they have difficulty understanding and fully participating in Mass.  Clergy and lay ministers can count on hearing certain critiques of the Divine Liturgy: "It's too ritualistic" or "I'd rather hear a really good sermon/homily" or the ever-present "Mass is boring."  Much of this has to do with poor teaching on the Mass in previous generations as well as the fact that teens find just about everything "boring" if it doesn't include lasers and loud noises.

What if there were a way to clear up these misconceptions and provide understanding for all those who make such claims?  There is a way!  Edward Sri has written a short and engaging book entitled A Biblical Walk Through the Mass: Understanding What We Say and Do In the Liturgy.  It is a book that brings lofty ideas into common language and practical scenarios.  It is fit for scholars as well as those beginning their journey to the heart of Catholicism.

Time and time again, Sri shows readers that the the words proclaimed at Mass, both by the priests and the assembly, are chock full of quotes and references to the Sacred Page.  Indeed, every Mass is "saturated with words from Sacred Scripture" (p. 43).  It would not stretch the truth to say that the Mass is "The Greatest Bible Study on Earth," as Sri titled one of the book's sections (p. 54).  In short, the author provides nothing more or less than a "biblical tour through the Mass" (p. 3).

Using each part of the Mass as a chapter heading and subject, Sri consistently presents liturgical texts in three ways: 1) the roots of those phrases in the Old Testament; 2) the growth and development of phrases in the earliest days of Christianity, recorded in the New Testament; and 3) the revised translation of the Roman Missal, with particular attention to the assembly's responses.  Keep in mind that Sri also intends for this book to prepare worshipers for the new words they will say, beginning this coming Sunday (the First Sunday of Advent).

Two examples should suffice to show this three-part pattern, the first of which is the Greeting.  After the celebrant and the assembly trace the Sign of the Cross over their bodies, the celebrant greets those in the church: "The Lord be with you."  As of this coming Sunday, the assembly's response will be "And with your spirit.  Sri reminds readers that this greeting "expresses the profound reality of God's life dwelling within our souls..." (p. 24), and that it requires more than the current response, "And also with you."  From there, the author goes on to recall the host of biblical figures who were greeted with these words, including Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Joshua, Gideon, David, Jeremiah, and the Virgin Mary.  From there, Sri examines the scriptural roots of other greetings from the priest.  Specifically, he points out that "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" is a direct quote from five of St. Paul's letters.

"And with your spirit"?  Sri proves that this is the most proper response for two reasons.  First, it is faithful to the Latin text and to the words of St. Paul to the Galatians (6:8).  Second, and more importantly, the revised response leads the assembly to acknowledge "the Holy Spirit's unique activity through the priest during the sacred liturgy by virtue of his ordination" (p. 28).  Throughout the book, Sri provides simple and clear explanations, like this one, of the necessity for revising the texts of the Mass.

The second example that illustrates Sri's three-part presentation is the Gloria, in which we "prepare ourselves to welcome Jesus by repeating the same words of praise that the angels used to herald Christ's coming" (p. 43).  Using the words of the hymn, the author lists "common biblical titles for God" found in the Old Testament: "God Almighty," "Lord Almighty," "King of Israel," "King of glory," and "King of kings."  Each title is presented with its scriptural reference.  From there, Sri presents the fact that "the whole mission of Jesus is summed up" in the second stanza; and he provides myriad scriptural references from the Old and New Testaments (pp. 45-46).

One final point should prove the value of this short book.  Chapter 11, which deals with the Creed, may be the most important for Sri's audience.  In fewer than 10 pages, using Scripture references and brilliant analogies, the author reminds Catholics why this statement is important to their daily lives.  Not only does the Creed carry believers "through the entire story of salvation history" (p. 71), but it also "has a counter-culture message" for the era of relativism and apathy in which we live (pp. 72-73).  As Pope Benedict has written: the Creed requires "a personal adherence...to God"; and it "will not let us be lukewarm bystanders in this cosmic struggle" for souls.  The Creed is a great spiritual weapon for Catholics, and we should use it often!

As Catholics, we must never forget that we need to be fed from the table of the Eucharist (the altar in every parish) and from the table of God's Word (the Bible).  Neither is dispensable for Catholics.  As Sri writes, "We need both the inspired Word of God in Scripture and the Incarnate Word of God present in the Blessed Sacrament" (p. 52).  Having read Sri's short book, let us go now and approach both of those tables, understanding what is there and joyful that God allows us to receive that nourishment.

In the Gospel reading from today's Mass (Luke 18:35-43), a blind man heard that "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by" (v. 37).  He responded by shouting out, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me" (v. 38)!

At various points in my life, I have been just like that beggar.  Life isn't always pleasant or easy when I'm trying to get by based on my personal talents and abilities.  I get frustrated.

Then, at the mere hint of Jesus' name, I think that all my problems might be solved.  However, my cry to Jesus for pity usually is a last-ditch effort, after all of my own remedial attempts have failed.  Unfortunately, I sometimes view Jesus as my Divine Problem-Fixer, which is not the best way to see Him.

Nonetheless, the Master hears my cry, and the question that He asked the beggar is the same that He asks me: "What do you want me to do for you" (v. 41).  Sometimes, my response has been nothing more than "I don't know what else to do" or "I couldn't do this on my own, so now I need help."  However, I must delay my initial reaction and ponder the question more fully.  Then, I realize the correct approach.

Instead of making Jesus a problem-fixer when everything else fails, I must place every moment and every situation of every day into my cry for pity.  I must recognize in the beginning that I am nothing more than a blind sinner; that I would stumble and fail miserably if I were left to my own devices.  By doing this, my request, "Lord, please let me see" (v. 41) is about seeing my days (with all their joys AND challenges) as Jesus sees them.

To ask the Lord for clarity of sight must never be about being able to do things on our own, without Him.  It is faith in Him as Lord that allows us to see most clearly.  Without His light and grace, we will easily fall back into darkness.  Let us always remember that there is no way to view the world fully but through the eyes of Jesus. 

I mentioned the term "Holy Day of Obligation" to someone recently, and that began a discussion.  Eventually, the conversation came to a question of why the Church must prescribe days of "obligation."  Some people might ask: "Shouldn't we WANT to go to church instead of going just because the Church tells me to go?"  Indeed, the ideal is that we attend Mass or other liturgies solely from our desire to be with God and to glorify Him for his greatness.

In fact, word "oblige" has such an idea at its very foundation.  The famous dictionary, Merriam-Webster, defines "oblige": "to put in one's debt by a favor or service; to do a favor for."  Of course, the word "oblige" is the root of "obligation."  So, it is reasonable for us to understand that our obligation is to the One who has done a "favor or service" for us.  God has obliged us, so we go to Mass, out of our DESIRE to return thanks and praise for His actions.

For those of us who aren't always overwhelmed with joy at the thought of going to Mass, the Church prescribes certain days that we need to go to Mass.  We know that we must go, even if we're not in the perfect mood, because of what God did first, even though it didn't feel great for him (like being shunned in Nazareth or dying on a cross).

Other than Sunday's the Church in the United States celebrates 5 Holy Days of Obligation (and some years less, because some holy days are transferred to the nearest Sunday).  Those 5 Holy Days of Obligation are:

1. January 1: Mary, Mother of God (this one can be transferred in some years)
2. August 15: Assumption of Mary (this one can be transferred in some years)
3. November 1: All Saints' Day (this one can be transferred in some years)
4. December 8: Immaculate Conception
5. December 25: Christmas

So, we have a Holy Day of Obligation tomorrow, All Saints Day.  Out of our desire to thank and praise God, let's go to Mass and celebrate His favor toward us.  Let us sing hymns and hear Scripture readings and listen to homilies!  (By the way: Masses are at 8:15am, Noon, and 7pm.)  Let us be filled with His presence so that the next day, and every day after that, will be the next small step on our own path to sainthood!

Speaking of the "next day," Catholics the world over refer to November 2 as "All Souls Day."  This is the day that we pray for the deceased, particularly the Church suffering in Purgatory.  It is a solemn and beautiful day of worship and prayer as we assist those whom have gone before us in their journey toward Eternal Happiness.  Hopefully, those souls who are now in Purgatory and will one day be in Heaven will reciprocate the prayers, for the rest of our lives on earth and on the days that we spend in Purgatory.

If you're interested in reading more about the holy souls in Purgatory, and how to help them, check out this article from the National Catholic Register.  Also, check out my previous blog post about Purgatory if you need answers on that topic.

Celebrate the Holy Day and pray for someone who yearns to see the Face of God!  Until next time, God bless!

Many people in our culture, including Catholics, are surprised when they realize that there is a relationship between Halloween and a Catholic holy day.  Halloween is actually a shortened form of "All Hallow's Eve," the night before All Saints' Day.  In case you ever go on Jeopardy, or in case you want to bring a little Catholic culture into October 31, now you know.

In fact, many Catholic families and parishes are beginning to focus their Halloween celebrations on the holy men and women for whom this secular holiday is named.  Maybe it would be lots of fun to dress up as St. Sebastian (who was shot with numerous arrows), St. Augustine (my patron saint), St. Thomas Aquinas (who was probably as big as Santa Claus), St. Philip Neri (who once shaved off half his beard), St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (the first American-born saint), or Bl. Teresa of Calcutta (who was less than half the size of St. Thomas).

There is a new article on Our Sunday Visitor's website about how families are doing this.  Check it out to see if this is something that you could do in your family.  Don't worry, the saints can still give out and collect candy!

Stay tuned for tomorrow's blog post, which will deal with All Saints Day as a Holy Day of Obligation.  Until then, you can look forward to the "treat" part of trick-or-treating...

God bless!

I have been trying to write this post for nearly three weeks.  Between my hectic family life and work schedule, my thoughts on many wonderful Catholic things happening during October are almost too late.  Despite the fact that the month is over, I will share them anyway.  I hope they are helpful to any and all of our parishioners!

October is, without a doubt, the best month of the whole year!  Not only are we granted some relief from the miserable Memphis summer heat, but we also get to look forward to the World Series (which isn't pleasurable for Cardinals' fans right now...) and my birthday (I'm still trying to decide if I should be excited).

If those things weren't enough, the Church reminds us that October is the month of the Rosary as well as Respect-Life Month.  From crafts fairs to baseball to defending the dignity of every human life, we certainly have plenty to think about.  So, how can we, as Catholics, engage the world around us in some of these ways?

Our parishioners have been doing exactly those things.  Read on.  I've included pictures where able.

The ICS Home and School Association just executed a wonderful seasonal event, the Boo Bash & BBQ Festival.  For a full evening, parish families ate, played games, "trunk-or-treat"-ed, ate some more, bid on silent and live auction items, and found fellowship with the community around them.  It was a wonderful event, and it had the wonderful cause of supporting the outstanding education provided to children who attend ICS.  Many thanks go out to the team of parents who coordinated and, especially, all the parishioners who attended!

BOO! Bash

On Wednesday, October 12, each of the parish schools in our diocese joined Bishop Terry Steib in praying the Rosary for peace in the Holy Land.  Those children who attend ICS prayed with Rosaries that were donated by the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (an order within the Church that prays for and protects the Holy Land; an order of which our pastor, Fr. Parham, is a leader).  With all of the tension that surrounds that region, and the holy places there, it makes sense that Catholics around the world would pray for an end to violence in the Holy Land.

In an effort to defend the dignity of every human life, many of our parishioners get involved in the local 40 Days for Life campaign.  Each year, from late September, through October, and leading up to All Souls Day, people pray outside of the local Planned Parenthood facility for an end to actions that violate every person's right to life.  It is a powerful prayer vigil, and they always need more people to pray, if you're interested.  Click here for the 40 Days for Life website.

In addition to protecting the rights of the unborn, the bishops of the United States are proposing "First Fridays for Food Security."  They are asking families to fast on the first Friday of each month between October and April; and to pray for people around the country and the world who do not have enough food.  This prayer and fasting has two purposes: 1) to get us praying together as families; and 2) reminding us to act in solidarity with people who don't have as much as many Americans.  This is also a powerful prayer campaign, and ANY family can participate for the next six months!  Click here to visit the U.S. Bishops' website for more information.

The children and youth in Religious Education are thinking about helping those who are less fortunate, too.  In recent weeks, children, parents, and catechists have made grand efforts to stock the parish and Town of Collierville food pantries, and to provide much-needed food stuffs for Project Outreach.  It is amazing to watch the generosity of our parishioners, even (no, especially) the young people.  We're teaching the next generation to care for others!

If that wasn't enough going on in our parish, there is also a series for parents currently happening.  The series, entitled "The Treasure that Is Your Family," has met twice.  The topics for those gatherings were "Becoming a Great Family" and "Forgiveness, Healing, and Communion in Your Family."  As the presenter for those sessions, I see two great things: 1) new faces keep showing up; and 2) families are getting practical tips on how to live as Christ has commanded us.  The third, final session will take place on Wednesday, November 16.  The topic of that session will be "Parenting With and Through the Media," and it will be a great resource for parents of children AND teenagers.  Send an email to me for more information, or to sign up for the session.

Wow!  My head is spinning just from writing this post about our October events.  No wonder October turned into Oct...over...!  In the midst of this frenetic pace of life and ministry, it is necessary to remain connected to Christ.  Remember, our Blessed Sacrament Chapel is open from 9am to 9pm, almost every day of the week; and remember that we have Eucharistic Adoration on EVERY FRIDAY!  I hope to see you in the chapel!

In the mean time, I will be writing more.  Please feel free to leave a comment or question in the "Comments" section, or send an email to me.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Yes, I've changed the title of this column...temporarily.  During the summer, because of travel and because there will be more time between gatherings, I  will only be writing a monthly youth ministry recap and "look-ahead."  I will, however, make sure that I post lots of pictures in my columns so that everyone gets to see how much fun our parish youth are having during their summer break.

Ready?  Let's go...

RECAP

Since the last time I wrote a "This Week in Youth Ministry" column, lots of stuff has happened.  Here's the list, as well as my memory serves.

We almost got flooded and blown away in tornadoes.  Thank God that Collierville was mostly spared; and pray to God for blessings upon those who were affected.  And, pray for the most recent victims of severe weather in Joplin, MO.  Somehow, God will use all of this negative stuff for His glory.

As for youth ministry events, we had so much fun!  Make sure to tell lots of people to let them in on our surprise!

Mrs. Barb decided that she would blindfold Andrew to make a point about being able to recognize the Truth that Christ gives to us.  **Disclaimer: No youth were harmed in the execution of that youth ministry gathering.**

As an 18th birthday present to one of our youth, the whole group, including adult team members, danced a Russian polka (or something vaguely resembling it).  I'm sure it was a birthday present never to be forgotten.

Later at that same gathering, we had a fierce competition of wheelbarrow races and tug-o-war...

...with some unexpected winners.

At our annual Family ENCOUNTER, we had a grill master, a praise band, and a group of teens who pretend to be superheroes.

Finally, what youth ministry post would be complete without at least one youth with food in her mouth, two others trying to hide from the camera, and a youth minister telling them to get up and sing along with the band.

What a great event that was, a perfect way to wrap-up a great year of ministry!  However, the fun isn't over.  Just because school is out doesn't mean that we lose contact with each other.

UPCOMING EVENTS

This summer, we have a slate full of social gatherings and one AWESOME retreat!  We want everyone to participate!  There's stuff for middle school youth (we'll tell you about that as soon as we have details), and there is stuff for high school youth (that's what's listed here).  Remember: all youth who finish 8th grade in 2011 are welcome to participate in any of our high school activities.  That's our way of welcoming you to the Incarnation Teens.

Summer Softball Practice

• Sunday, May 29
• 6pm on parish baseball field
• **Last practice before game
• **Be sure to turn in your Health & Medical release forms to one of the coaches

Summer Softball Game

• **FIRST GAME OF SEASON**
• Monday, May 30
• 7pm @ St. Louis Catholic Church (on White Station Rd.)
• Contact me if you want to play on our team this summer: NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY
• Cost of jersey is $10 (only if you don't have one from last summer)

Summer Social Gatherings

• Wednesdays, June 1, 8, and 15
• 6:30pm start time
• June 1 gathering is field games (ultimate frisbee, red rover, etc.)
• June 8 and 15 gatherings are wide open for suggestions (movies, bowling, swimming, etc.)
• Contact me if you want to participate, or if you have ideas

Vocation Rally and Prayer Service

• Thursday, June 2
• 7pm @ St. Benedict High School
• This event will have music, prayer, and pizza
• Main purpose is to pray for the men who will be our newest diocesan priests this summer
• Come out and support our diocese and our priests!

Memphis Redbirds Faith and Family Night (Open to all youth and families)

• Saturday, June 18
• Tickets are $7 each
• John Angotti concert @ 5pm
• Baseball game @ 6pm
• Fireworks after the game

I look forward to seeing lots of our new high school youth, lots of high school youth who haven't been around in a while, and the beautiful faces that we see from week to week!  As always, let me know if you have any questions.  God bless!

Today is significant, and not because it is Friday, the 13th.  Today is significant because it is the 13th day of May.  May 13 is significant because that was the day in 1917 that our Blessed Mother first appeared to the three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal.

During my few short years as a Catholic, my devotion to Mary has grown significantly.  In particular, I have developed a particular devotion to Our Lad of Fatima.  The apparitions and the message are most poignant in my life; and I am preparing (with a group of great teenagers) to visit Fatima in August of this year.  Because of the blessings that I have received through Our Lady of Fatima's intercession, I highly recommend that others seek her assistance!

If you're interested in learning more about Our Lady's apparitions at Fatima, click here or here.  I also highly recommend resources published and distributed by Ignatius Press: a recent book by Fr. Andrew Apostoli, CFR, and a movie entitled The 13th Day.  Check them out!  I'm sure they will help you develop your spirituality, and lead a more peaceful life!

Interestinly, Pope Benedict XVI recently made a plea to all Catholics to "Pray the Rosary with More Intensity," because that was part of the message that Mary gave to the three children nearly 100 years ago.  Our holy father knows now, as the Blessed Mother has always known, that praying the Rosary as individuals and families will strengthen us and lead us closer to Christ.  Let's follow Our Lady's and our pope's request!

Happy Easter to all of our parish's youth and their families!  Don't forget that we get to celebrate the Resurrection for EIGHT FULL DAYS (it's called an "octave") because it is the primary celebration of the Catholic Church.  Isn't it great that the joy and blessings don't end after Easter Sunday is over!?

RECAP

There's not much to recap since last week was Holy Week and there weren't any youth ministry gatherings.  Some youth and their families did come to the parish on Wednesday evening for a screening of The Passion of the Christ, which was powerful, as always.  It was one of the few times that I was actually speechless.

My only other point is not to recap, but to remind.  Our high school youth, the Incarnation Teens, have chosen Cross International (an apostolate that feeds and educates poor children in Central America and the Caribbean) as the recipient of a collection drive.  Each week, the teens give their spare change or dollar bills.  At the end of 2011, the ministry will write a check (hopefully, a large one!) to Cross International.  The group set a goal of collecting $500 by December.  Teens: don't forget to bring spare change to ENCOUNTER tomorrow!  Let's meet our goal!

THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

We have LOTS happening between now and Sunday evening.  Here's the quick rundown...

Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER (High School Youth)

• Wednesday, April 27
• 7-9pm in the HFLC Gym
• Topic is "Obstacles to Happiness"
• Bring a friend for the food, fellowship, and fun!

Mike Rose Soccer Complex Fundraiser

• Saturday and Sunday, April 30 and May 1
• **Need parents AND youth to volunteer
• Shifts available early or late on either or both days
• **Proceeds help families reduce cost of Steubenville conference or WYD.

Teens Loving Christ (High School Youth)

• Sunday, May 1
• 11:45am in the Youth Lounge
• Join us for this relaxed conversation about Catholicism and lilfe
• Bring your friends and bring your questions!
• Lunch will be provided

B.A.S.I.C. Gathering (Middle School Youth)

• Sunday, May 1
• 4-6pm, beginning in the HFLC Gym
• "The Heavenly Celebration" is our theme
• Gathering will include praise band, cookout, and water games!
• Rising 6th graders (this year's 5th graders) are invited!

Incarnation Teens "Holy Mitts" Summer Softball Practice

• Sunday, May 1
• 6-8pm on the baseball field
• **All rising 9th graders (this year's 8th graders) and high school youth are eligible.
• **No experience necessary; just a desire to have fun!
• Bring your own mitt and something to drink

There is one other event that I'd like to announce now.  High school families, get this one on your calendar!

Family ENCOUNTER

• Wednesday, May 11
• 7-9pm in the HFLC Gym
• Evening will include pot luck dinner, awards presentations, annual slide show, and message for families.
• **All high school youth and their families are invited.  RSVP NECESSARY BY FRIDAY, MAY 6.

As always, I look forward to seeing youth and their families at these events.  In the mean time, please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any comments or questions.  God bless!

I am so sorry for the lengthy absence from cyberspace.  Meetings and ministry events and eating and sleeping have resulted in a deficiency in the number of recent posts.  Alas...I'll just pick up where I left off.

RECAP

Last week was a really great week for youth ministry, and I have (some) pictures to prove it!  Take a look below.

At our Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER, the high school youth performed a hilarious skit, one that was written by a former youth.  "A Day in the Life of a Catholic Teenager" was great!  It involved running around the stage, throwing paper wads at folks, and screaming on several occasions.  Oh, if only someone had a camera to capture the magic...  But, for the sake of having a picture here, I'll insert one from a different event.

Fortunately, I did have my camera to capture some snapshots of the last fish fry of the season (sad face here).  The teens have had so much fun, and they've worked so hard, for the last six weeks.  I'd like to send a huge thanks to all of the youth and adults who have volunteered time and energy to make this a successful fundraiser!

Finally, our middle school youth were treated to a social gathering on Sunday afternoon.  It involved jumping rope, something even I got involved in...

It involved relay races...

It involved a brief time for prayer and reflection on growing close to Christ...

And, finally, it involved basketball, volleyball, kickball, and maybe some other sports, too.  I left from there and I was thirsty, my legs hurt, and I was ready to greet Holy Week with a great attitude!

THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

Because it's Holy Week, there isn't much on the schedule.  Of course, there is the BEAUTIFUL EASTER TRIDUUM LITURGY, which begins with Holy Thursday Mass, includes Good Friday service, and ends with the Easter Vigil Mass (see parish home page for full schedule).  I hope that all of you will choose to come and worship with us, remembering Christ's ultimate sacrifice, during these three holy days!

The rest of the schedule looks like this...

Screening of The Passion of the Christ

• Wednesday, April 20
• 6:30pm in the HFLC Gym
• **All parishioners are welcome!  Bring your own chair.**
• **We assume that any youth who comes has the permission of his/her parents.**

Easter Egg Hunt

• Saturday, April 23
• 1:00pm on the ICS/MDO playgrounds
• **Egg hunt is for children, ages 1-10.**
• **Bring Easter basket to hunt eggs.**

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation.  You can call (850-2682) or send an email.  I look forward to seeing all of you and worshiping the Crucified and Risen Lord in the coming days!

"Bless me, Father, for I have sinned.  It has been ___ weeks/months/years since my last confession."  These words are some of the most frightening, nerve-racking, and least-understood words found in the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church.  Based on a discussion that I held with some middle school youth at our parish, I decided that it might be good for all parishioners to receive some answers to their common questions.

6th, 7th, and 8th graders were given a sheet of paper and instructed to ask one question about the Sacrament of Reconciliation (a.k.a. "Confession" or the Sacrament of Penance).  The following are some of the best questions that we received:

• Did Jesus go to confession?  When was the first confession held?
• Why can't we just tell our sins to God?  Why do we have to tell them to a priest?
• Can you go to confession silently?
• What if a parent asked a priest about their child's sins?  Would the priest tell?
• Do you have to go every week?
• Would you be forgiven if you lie about your sins during confession?
• Are there a lot of people who do not go to confession?  Why?
• Why don't other Christian churches believe in confession?

Great questions, huh?  I'd like to quickly (if that's possible) provide answers to these questions.  Read on to find out if I've answered the question that you have about this wonderful sacrament.

Did Jesus go to confession?  No.  Confession is for sinners who have wronged God and each other.  Jesus never did either of those; He led a sinless life.

When was the first confession held?  Fr. Ben suggests that the first confession was heard by Jesus while He was on the Cross.  St. Dismus cried out: "And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes...."  And, he begged our Lord, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."  Jesus response implies forgiveness of Dismus's personal transgressions: "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise" (see Luke 23:41-43).  That makes sense.

Why can't we just tell our sins to God?  Why do we have to tell them to a priest?  Because to tell our sins to a priest is the way that God intends for us to have reconciliation with Him, the Church, and each other.  In John 20:22-23, Jesus "breathed on them [the Twelve Apostles] and said to them, 'Receive the holy spirit.  Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained."  One of those Twelve, or their successor (the bishops), could not forgive or retain sins unless they know which sins have been committed.  They must hear your sins in order to forgive them.  The last, and most important, point of this answer is the priest stands in persona Christi (in the person of Christ) while you are confessing your sins.  In essence, you are confessing them directly to God, because Christ was fully God.

Can you go to confession silently?  Only if you know sign language and the priest can understand sign language.  Otherwise, you must state your sins aloud, and a priest must hear them (see the question and answer above).

What if a parent asked a priest about their child's sins?  Would the priest tell?  No.  A priest is not allowed (under penalty of sin and excommunication) to say anything or act in such a way that could potentially reveal a person's sins.  A priest cannot even answer whether or not a person has been to confession!  Priests take very seriously what is called "the seal of the sacrament," which means that they NEVER can tell anyone.

Do you have to go every week?  If you have mortal sin every week, then yes.  If you want to go every week to confess venial sins, then yes.  Confession is necessary when a person has committed a (or more than one) mortal sin.  In fact, confession is the only way that such a person can be reconciled to God and the Church.  It is also very good to take the less-serious sins to confession because you can receive grace and strength against temptation.

Would you be forgiven if you lied about your sins during confession?  Not in that particular instance.  For a confession to be valid, you must confess every mortal sin of which you are conscious.  If you are conscious of a sin, but leave it out or falsify information about it, the confession is not valid, even if the priest prays the prayer of absolution.  We cannot lie to ourselves or the ministers of sacraments about our intentions if we want to receive the grace that is available in them.  It is never necessary to lie under "the seal of the sacrament" because priests can never reveal your sins; and many of them forget very quickly anyway.

Are there a lot of people who don't go to confession?  Why?  I would say that there are a lot of people who do not go to confession regularly.  We have 1500 families in our parish, but we only have about 40-50 people go to confession in any given week, on average.  That's not a lot.

As part of the middle school youth gathering, five groups were asked to list the "TOP 5 REASONS CATHOLICS DON'T GO TO CONFESSION."  The five groups came up with several common reasons.  They are...

• 5. People don't think confession is necessary, or they feel that they haven't sinned.
• 4. People "don't have time," or they find other things to do to fill the time.
• 3. People don't want to tell their secrets to someone they don't know, or someone they know pretty well.
• 2. People get nervous and/or they don't feel confident.
• 1. People are afraid of being shunned and rejected.

Wow!  What insights our middle schoolers have!  I'll bet that many of you have felt one or used one or more of the reasons on the list.  I know that I have.  I can assure you, however, that there is no reason to think that these are true.  I can also assure you that you will become more comfortable and confident (and your confessions will get shorter) each time you go to this sacrament.  I hope that we have to set up a tent at a remote location to handle all the penitents...

Why don't other Christian churches believe in confession?  During the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, reformers wanted to get rid of anything that looked like Catholic piety or worship.  There aren't many things that look or feel more Catholic than a confessional!  In order to get rid of the look, they had to change their understanding of certain Scripture passages, like John 20:22-23, mentioned above.

Do those answers make sense?  Do they help?  Do you agree?  Do you have other questions about the Sacrament of Penance?  If so, please send an email to me or leave a comment in the "Comments" section below.

Until I write again, I pray that God will bless you and your families.  And, I hope and pray that many of you will go to confession before the end of this Lenten season.

Greetings in Christ!  I'm blessed that I'm able to write another weekly edition of this column.  I pray that you will find some blessing in being able to read it.

It's important that we recall the blessings in our life on a regular basis; and that we allow other to hear about those blessings.  So, share your blessings: leave a comment in the "Comments" box below; send an email to me; call a friend; go stand at the corner of Poplar and Byhalia with a sign...okay, don't do that last one unless you're really motivated.  The point is to allow God's great blessings to be known in this world that is constantly plagued by darkness and bad news.  It will make a difference, I promise!

Before I move on to this week's information, I have a VERY IMPORTANT PIECE OF NEWS.  Catholic Church of the Incarnation is now on Facebook and Twitter!  To find our Facebook page, log in to your account and search for "Catholic Church of the Incarnation."  Our official page is the one that has the picture of Gabriel's Annunciation to Mary (no other page is the official one).  To follow our Twitter feed, visit www.twitter.com/inc_catholic; or log in and search for @inc_catholic.  I hope to see you all on these social media sites because they'll help us get information to you more quickly.

RECAP

Last week was a great week for ministry.  Our high school youth were treated to a prayer session that allowed them to meditate on spiritual transformation.  They just might become the newest version of Transformers!  The injuries were not caused at ENCOUNTER; they went for matching leg boots before they came to our event...

In addition to their prayer service, the Incarnation Teens took a field trip on Sunday afternoon.  The bi-weekly Teens Loving Christ (TLC) session was held at Johnson Park.  In addition to discussing their life and faith, teens ate a picnic lunch, threw a frisbee, and wrote lots of messages about Jesus in sidewalk chalk.  Maybe the next TLC gathering (see below) will include activities that far-surpass sidewalk chalk on the fun-o-meter?

The middle school youth (Brothers And Sisters In Christ) gathered for the first time in two weeks, and the gathering was tons of fun!  As always, youth had plenty of social time to play sports (dodgeball, basketball, volleyball) and/or swing on the monkey bars on the playground.  Of course, there were plenty of snacks to fill our bellies and jokes to make us laugh.

The theme for Sunday's gathering was "Forgive Me, Father," during which we learned about the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  Youth were allowed to ask lots of questions about sin and confession (I will use some of them for tomorrow's column); and they got to participate in mock confessions so they could see the process of the sacrament.  Even in the midst of such a serious topic, youth received a new perspective on the sacrament, and they had lots of laughs.

THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

Incarnation Teens Events (for High School Youth)

Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER

• Wednesday, April 6
• 7-9pm in the HFLC Gym
• Topic is "Un-Twisted"
• All high school youth are invited, and friends too, for the fellowship, food, and formation

Knights of Columbus Fish Fry

• Friday, April 8
• 5-7pm (set-up begins @ 3pm; clean-up lasts until 8pm) in the HFLC Gym
• **REMINDER: ONLY 25 YOUTH CAN VOLUNTEER**
• Call the office or send an email immediately if you (or your child) want(s) to volunteer
• **Please tell your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors to come and join us!**

Teens Loving Christ (TLC)

• Sunday, April 10
• 11:45am-1:45pm; meet in Narthex after 10:30am Mass
• All high school youth, and their important questions about faith and life, are welcome at this event.
• If the weather is nice, we'll have another outdoor event!

Of course, I am always willing to answer any questions that you have.  If you have a question, call the office or send an email.  If you have a comment, send an email or put it in the "Comments" box below.  I'm always looking for feedback from families so we can make our ministry better!

Until you hear from me again, please pray for me, my family, and this ministry.  As always, I am keeping you and your families in my prayers!  God bless!

Greetings again!  Since I last wrote, we've experienced another great week of youth ministry.  Let's review.

RECAP

A group of high school youth blessed the parish three different times with their portrayal of the popular Lenten devotion, the Living Stations of the Cross.  Between children in religious education, teenagers, and adults, nearly 500 people experienced this prayer devotion during the seven days.  Praise be to God that we can provide this during Lent every year!

Other than the Living Stations, the Incarnation Teens enjoyed a social gathering at their regular Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER.  The theme was "Improv Comedy Night," and their were laughs to be found in every act.  The gathering began with singing and dancing to recent (and not-so-recent) popular songs.

...including one by the adult team members...

The most hilarious part of the whole evening was the "No Arms" skits that took place.  Our actors had to make PB&J sandwiches as if they were the hosts of popular cooking shows.  I left from the gathering with my ab muscles hurting from laughing so hard!

THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

This coming week also offers several opportunities for youth to fellowship with each other and grow closer to Christ.  Check out the information...

**STEUBENVILLE YOUTH CONFERENCE PAYMENTS DUE**

• The 3rd payment (of 4) is now past due
• Please pay your balance immediately
• Send an email to me if you would like to know your balance, or if you have any fundraising credit
• The final payment of $100 is due no later than Friday, April 29

Events for Middle School Youth

B.A.S.I.C. Gathering

• Sunday, April 3
• 4-6pm in the HFLC Gym
• Theme will be "Forgive Me, Father"
• Gathering will include prayer, lesson on faith, snacks, and games.
• Bring a friend to join in the fun!

Events for High School Youth

Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER

• Wednesday, March 30
• 7-9pm in the HFLC Gym
• Theme will be "Un-Twister" (about figuring out your life's direction)
• ALL HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH ARE INVITED!
• Bring a friend to join in all of the holy shenanigans!

Teens Loving Christ (TLC)

• Sunday, April 3
• 11:45-1:45pm in the Youth Lounge
• Lunch will be served!
• Bring your questions for this relaxed conversation about Catholicism and the lives of teens
• ALL HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH ARE INVITED

Events for Families

Men's Morning of Spirituality VI

• Saturday, April 2
• 8:30am-12:30pm @ St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (Cordova)
• ALL MEN, AGES 16 AND OVER, are invited
• Event includes motivational speakers, great music, Reconciliation, and Mass with Bishop Terry Steib
• Find more information or register by visiting www.mensmorning.com

As always, I look forward to seeing lots of youth and parents at these events.  In the mean time, please let me know if you have any questions or comments.  I am praying for all the families of our parish!

"Have you been saved?"  "Have you accepted Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior?"

As I minister to people in this parish, especially teenagers, I hear examples of how Catholics don't really know how to answer those and similar questions.  Because some people are puzzled by the questions, it might cause them to wonder if non-Catholics believe something different than Catholics about salvation.  It might even cause them to wonder if their salvation is "in jeopardy."

In order to answer this question, it is necessary to first explain the Protestant understanding(s) of salvation.  Most non-Catholic Christians believe that the formula for salvation is found in Romans 10:9-10.  They believe: "if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  For man believes with his heart and so is justified, and he confesses with his lips and so is saved."  Growing up as a non-Catholic Christian, I heard this Scripture passage quoted and prayed many times as ministers invited youth and adults alike to seize that "moment of salvation."

While I have never met a Protestant who would disagree with the words of St. Paul quoted above, there is a divergence of belief about retaining salvation after that initial moment.  The denomination in which I was raised believed that a person could lose his/her salvation.  We emphasized Christ's words: "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62).  On the other hand, I knew/know of many Protestants who believe that a person cannot lose salvation, no matter what he/she does after that initial moment of grace.  They believe that, even in light of serious sin, a person would keep that salvation because the blood of Christ covered those sins for all time.

So what do we believe as Catholics?  First let's focus on the points of belief that we share in common with Protestant Christians.  We do not dispute the inerrancy of Scripture, so we believe the words of the Apostle Paul (Romans 10:9-10) whole-heartedly.  Additionally, we believe that the precious blood of Christ is sufficient to transform us from sinful to holy people.  However, we also believe that we must continually accept the grace that is available to us if we are to find salvation; it cannot be something that happens once in a lifetime.

Where do we receive that grace?  The first place that most Catholics (and even many converts to the Church) receive that grace is in our Baptism.  That is the first moment when we are "saved" from the stain of original sin because we have been brought into God's family.  At our Baptisms, we become property of the Eternal Father who loves us and wants to bring us to His Home.  Further, Baptism is necessary for our eternal salvation because Jesus told us such.  "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God" (John 3:5).  So, in a very real sense, Catholics can respond with a hearty "YES" to the "Have you been saved?"-question.

Since we are only baptized once, we still need access to grace (that's God's life within us) if we are to "press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God" (Philippians 3:14).  From whence does that grace come?  It comes in two ways.

The first way that we receive grace after our Baptisms is by participating in the other sacraments of the Catholic Church.  As we grow in age and wisdom, we may prepare for and receive those other channels of the Divine Life.  Most especially, we should focus on Reconciliation and the Eucharist as sources of grace.  When we confess our shortcomings to the Lord, and when we receive His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity, our old selves can be washed away; we can be transformed into holy people.  With another emphatic "YES," we can respond to the "personal Lord and Savior"-question because we receive His forgiveness and His very Body every time we receive these sacraments.

The second way that we receive grace after our Baptisms is by leading a life of virtue; by having faith, being obedient, and working to build the kingdom on earth.  This actually is our response to God's first work.  We continue to believe and we do good things because He has filled us with His life.  And then, what's even better, is that God responds to our efforts with more grace than we ever could imagine!  The Word of God, the Sacred Scriptures, teach us that works complement and complete faith.  The apostle James wrote: "So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.  But some one will say, 'You have faith and I have works.'  Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith. ... You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by works..." (James 2:17-18, 22).  Another appropriate response to "Are you saved?" is "I am working out my salvation 'with fear and trembling'" (Philippians 2:12).  We are all in the process of being saved by God's grace while we're walking on this earth.

That we work out our salvation "with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12) reminds us that it is possible to lose our salvation.  See Ezekiel 18:23-24, for example.  The words of Christ also prove this true: "But he who endures to the end will be saved" (Mark 13:13).  If I know what my eternal end is, there is no need for me to endure in virtue and good works.  Yet, this is what Christ has told us, so we trust His Word!  (Remember also Luke 9:62 about turning back from the plow.)  In fact, to presume that we will surely be saved can lead us into the sin of pride.

So, my friends, we have a huge challenge ahead.  Indeed, we have a lengthy race to run (see 2 Timothy 4:7 and Hebrews 12:1)!  We must accept the graces of our Baptisms, Confirmations, and Holy Communions.  We must respond to those graces by going into the world and doing good works, providing examples of heroic virtue.  We must always find opportunities to return to the font of grace, because nothing is possible without the Divine Life, for "In him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28).  Finally, we must never assume that our salvation is won.  When someone asks, "Are you saved?" we might appropriately respond, "I hope to be saved at the end of time based on the merits of my life" (see Romans 8:24).

Until next time, I pray that God's grace will dwell within me so that I might be a point of light in this world.  I pray the same for each of you.  God bless!

Last week was obviously a light week for youth ministry.  All of our youth enjoyed time away from school, and many youth got to take some sort of vacation.  I must admit, I was a bit envious of those who went to places with warm sunshine, sand, and waves.

RECAP

Those youth who were in town and came to volunteer at the Knights of Columbus fish fry had a great time.  Some served food...

Some played with their food...

Others still think that a french fry is a "healthy vegetable."

To round out the week, a group of middle school youth gathered for this month's B.A.S.I.C. gathering.  We all enjoyed a competitive game of kickball, during which yours truly never safely reached base.  I happened to be the worst kickball player on the field that day.  Thankfully, there are no pictures of that.

THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

We have some excellent events planned for this coming week.  Some are for middle and high school youth, some are for entire families, and one is just for adults!

Living Stations of the Cross

• Wednesday, March 23 at 6pm OR Friday, March 25 at 7pm OR Sunday, March 27 at 9am
• Devotion hosted in the small church
• All parishioners are welcome to come and experience this active prayer

Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER

• **8TH GRADE YOUTH ARE INVITED TO THIS HIGH SCHOOL EVENT**
• Wednesday, March 23
• 7pm in the Gym
• This social night will be full of laughs as we are hosting "Improv Comedy Night"
• Snacks will be available at the end of the gathering

Knights of Columbus Fish Fry

• Friday, March 25
• 5-7pm (Set-up begins @ 3pm; clean-up lasts until 8pm) in the Gym
• Bring your families and friends because we'll have a bunch of food and fun!
• **VOLUNTEERS MUST SIGN UP IN ADVANCE.  CALL OR EMAIL TO VOLUNTEER.**

"Around the World" Trivia Night

• **FOR ADULTS**
• **ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT WORLD YOUTH DAY PILGRIMS**
• Saturday, March 26 in the Gym
• Doors open @ 6:15pm; trivia begins @ 7pm
• Entry fee (for team of six, maximum) is $75
• Team decorating contest!
• Great door prizes (dinners, wine, movie tickets, etc.) will be given away.
• Call or email to register before Saturday: (901) 850-2682 or derek.rotty@incarnation.cdom.org

Teens Loving Christ

• Sunday, March 27
• 11:45am in the Faith Formation Lounge
• ALL HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH are invited to this conversation about Catholicism and life.
• Lunch will be provided.

As you all can see, there is a lot happening this week, and it should interest lots of our youth and their families.  I hope to see lots of youth and parents at these events.

Please spread the word, and let me know if you have any questions.  Until I see all of you, I will hold you and your families in my prayers.  God bless!

Since we are now in Lent, this week's piece of advice will focus on how we can become better, happier people during this holy season.  Yes, it is possible, even joyfully so, to sacrifice so that our souls might grow into what God intends them to be.

This week's piece of advice has two parts: 1) give up something that you normally do, especially if that thing takes time away from God; and 2) add something to your daily (or weekly) routine that will bring you into deeper relationship with Him.  Lent is the perfect amount of time to create new habits of holiness; to break free from thoughts and activities that are obstacles to God's love, or to create new trends.

Some things that you might consider taking away:

• Morning television (have silence instead)
• Video games (maybe limit yourself to playing them once per week)
• Driving too fast (which causes other sins)
• Snacking between meals or second servings at meals

Some things that you might consider adding to your routine:

• Five or ten extra minutes of prayer a day
• Family dinner and prayer (more than just the food blessing) two nights each week
• A daily Mass once each week
• Arrive at the church 10 minutes early for Sunday Mass
• Saving your spare change for a Catholic charity
• Find a Saturday (maybe once each month) to do an act of service as a family

Maybe you have other ideas.  List them in the "Comments" section below.  I always find that dialogue with others helps me to come up with new and creative ways to live out my call to holiness.

To take away something (not even something "bad" necessarily) that we are used to doing causes us to think about what we will do to fill that time and/or space.  There is no more fulfilling reality than our God, Who is All-in-All, everything we need in silence, in the car, or after meal time.  Taking away a thing or an activity also causes us to recognize that we are able to control our habits.

To add something to our routine makes us examine which other things in our lives are important.  Nothing is more important than the Lord, so other, lesser things should fall off of our "to do" lists and replaced with His grandeur, mercy, and love.  Like taking away a thing or activity, adding a holy activity like prayer, daily Mass, or service allows us to create and control our habits.  Ultimately, our habits reflect the person we are and the things we care about.  That's why Lent is a great time to add a habit that shows that we care about our relationship with the Creator and Judge of the universe.

I pray that this Lenten season will bring all of you closer to the Almighty.  Please pray the same for me.  God bless!

Fr. Ben Bradshaw expresses it succinctly and perfectly: "Rejoice and repent!  Here comes Lent!"  Yes, today is Ash Wednesday, the first of forty days of penance and prayer.  Lent is the season of the Church most overtly ordered toward conversion of hearts, turning away from sin and seeking to find God's will for your lives.

I didn't get a specific question this week.  Thus, in the spirit of conversion, I think that it is appropriate to share some information that will assist in your understanding of Lent, penance, and conversion.

In his weekly general audience, Pope Benedict XVI spent time teaching the faithful about the meaning and practice of Lent.  As usual, the Holy Father has brilliant things to say.  Listen closely, though, because he speaks with a thick German accent.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Why do we eat fish on Fridays during Lent?  Isn't fish considered meat?  Both of these are questions that I've received more than once during my tenure in this job.

Jimmy Akin is a Catholic apologist (that doesn't mean he apologizes for being Catholic, it means that he explains Catholicism more fully), and he has some fairly clear insights on these questions.  To read his article the law of abstinence (from meat on Fridays during Lent), click here.  To read his explanation of why eating fish on Fridays is not collaboration in an evil papal plot to support Italian fishermen, click here.  Otherwise, I'll summarize.

• Those who are between the ages of 14 and 60 (inclusive), unless they are pregnant or nursing babies, must abstain from eating meat on Fridays during Lent.
• The faithful are not required to abstain from eating meat on other Fridays during the year; but anyone may do a voluntary penance (including abstaining from meat) on any Friday outside of Lent.
• That the faithful may eat fish on Fridays during Lent is not part of a papal plot to prop up the Italian fishing industry.
• Rather, the Latin text of the Church law says that the faithful must abstain from eating carnis on Fridays during Lent.  Carnis, in Latin, "refers only to the flesh of mammals and birds" (see Akin article).
• Because they couldn't eat carnis on Fridays, people began to look for a dietary substitute (i.e., they needed protein in their diets), but the tofu burger hadn't been invented yet.
• The practice of eating fish on Fridays became widespread and so did, to the glory of God, the annual parish fish fries!

For more on the observance of Church laws during Lent, visit this page full of links to articles by Jimmy Akin, who usually explains things clearly.  If you still have questions, feel free to send an email to me.

Finally, make a point to come to our first Lenten fish fry of the year.  This is a great event for food and fellowship!  Tell your families, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else you know that they'll get to meet some great people and eat some great food.  Proceeds benefit the Incarnation Teens as they work to make summer pilgrimages.

Mardi Gras greetings to all of you!  This is the "feast before the fast," so make sure to enjoy some wonderful food and join a lavish celebration before Ash Wednesday tomorrow.  While I'm thinking of Ash Wednesday, remember a couple of things:

• It IS NOT a holy day of obligation
• It IS a day of fasting and abstinence.  We fast from large amounts of food and we abstain from eating meat.  Send an email if you want to ask a specific question about why we're required to make these sacrifices.
• It IS a wonderful opportunity to "Rend your hearts...and return to the Lord, your God" (Joel 2:13).  Lent is the time of physical and spiritual sacrifices that will lead us back to the loving embrace of God.

And now, on to the fun stuff...

RECAP

Last week, at the Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER, our high school teens played "The Game of LIFE," on a life-sized game board.  The game was full of scenarios, decisions, and life events that caused youth to move toward or away from Heaven.  There was even time for youth to listen to God and discern their life vocations.  Thanks to all the youth and adult volunteers who worked so hard to make that activity great!

There were also a couple of really amazing religious experiences that took place during our gathering.  One young lady went to Purgatory, although she may not have experience the joy and love that are characteristics of Purgatory...

...and Jesus showed up to take her home to Heaven!

Our group was blessed with the presence of two sisters from the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia (the "Nashville Dominicans").  Sr. Margaret Anne and Sr. Gloria Christi participated in "The Game of LIFE" with us (one of them even had to marry one of our youth!) and they shared their personal vocational discernment stories.  Throughout our discussion with them, they answered tough questions such as "How do you deal without love?" or "Don't you ever feel lonely?"  Youth wanted to know what are the greatest joys and biggest difficulties of living a consecrated life; and they wanted to know how sisters can play ultimate frisbee in their habits.  Lastly, and most importantly, youth wanted to know how the sisters are treated when they wear their habits in secular settings.  They wondered how the world receives such an unusual lifestyle.  The answers were fascinating!

Finally, the youth received an important reminder: ALL PEOPLE, regardless of the vocational lifestyle to which they're called, must live out that vocation in a radical way.  They must be witnesses to the total and undying love of Christ whether they are married, single, priests, brothers, monks, sisters, or nuns.  Then, others will see the "reason for your hope" (1 Peter 3:15) and ask you to share it with them.

THIS WEEK'S EVENTS

Ash Wednesday Mass

• Wednesday, March 9 (tomorrow)
• Religious education classes and youth ministry will attend 7pm Mass together
• Other Mass times at our parish: 8:15am and 12:15pm

40 Days for Life Campaign

• **Not a parish event, but a great opportunity to pray and serve.**
• Kickoff Rally: Tuesday, March 8 (today) from 6-7pm at Planned Parenthood Memphis (2430 Poplar Avenue)
• 40-day vigil lasts from Wednesday, March 9 through Sunday, April 17
• Sign up to stand vigil for one or more hours by visiting the 40 Days website

Knights of Columbus Fish Fry

• Friday, March 11 (and 5 following Fridays)
• Food served from 5-7pm
• Prices: $9 for adults and $5 for children (3-12 yrs.)
• Set-up begins at 3pm; clean-up lasts until 8pm
• **Youth (or parents) must call or send an email to sign up to volunteer (limited number of spots available to raise funds)
• **All proceeds directly benefit youth who want to take summer pilgrimages
• **Families are asked to bring a dessert to help make this a great event

I won't post this column next week because of Spring Break.  I hope to see you at K of C fish fries and such.  If I don't see you until after Spring Break, I pray that you and your families will remain safe during your vacation, especially if you're traveling.  God bless!

Life is difficult!  There are lots of difficult situations and, sometimes, difficult people with whom we must deal.  We seem constantly to be working and striving for something, although many times we can't see progress.  Sometimes we even feel as though we are in proverbial chains, enslaved to the world around us, our jobs, or frustrating relationships.

As I prayed this morning, my eyes happened upon a passage from Psalm 107.  Verses 10-14 of the ancient hymn proclaim:

"Some sat in darkness and in gloom, prisoners in affliction and in irons, for they had rebelled against the words of God, and spurned the counsel of the Most High.  Their hearts were bowed down with hard labor; they fell down with none to help.  Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress; he brought them out of darkness and gloom, and broke their bonds asunder."

Notice the reason for our "darkness," "gloom," and "affliction": our own rebellion against God.  Turning away from God causes difficult situations to become heavier; it causes us to become wrapped in chains of self-pity when things get really difficult.

Indeed, it is only with Divine Love inside of us that we are able to bear the "hard labor" of this life.  Divine Love hastens to our aid as soon as we humble ourselves, recognize that we are powerless without Him, and cry out in our trouble.  Then, we are brought "out of darkness and gloom," our chains are broken, and our distress is taken away.

Notice that the Scripture does not promise that difficulties will be taken away.  Oh yes, we will still have difficulties, many of them.  Yet, those difficulties will become easier to bear if we head the fulfillment of this prophecy.  As recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus spoke:

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (11:28-30).

Anyone who has given or received help on a burdensome task knows the benefit of walking through that situation with a companion.  Allow Jesus to be your companion; to walk with you and deliver you from your distress!

Until next time, my prayers are with you and your families.  God bless!

This bit of news is a few weeks old now, but a parishioner asked...

"Is the confessional app for iPhone too far?"

The simple answer to that question is no.  In order to understand further, we must examine the intent of the developers, the function of the app, and the disposition of the user.  As I read some remarks by the developers and a few brief internet news articles, the intent is clear.  (Click here or click here to read them.)

The lead developer took up Pope Benedict's call to help young people "learn to use modern means of social communication for their personal growth and to better prepare themselves to serve society."  The Church, in this modern technological era, is open to the use of new media in transmitting the Deposit of Faith.  Additionally, two priests were consulted during the app's development so that "we were really in line with the Church in what we were doing."

The developer has made it clear from the beginning that this app serves a specific function: to assist penitents who might be timid about returning to Reconciliation; or who might be prone to forget particular sins.  The very first page of the Confession App bears the following statement: "This app is intended to be used during the Sacrament of Penance with a Catholic priest only.  This is not a substitute for a valid confession."  Fr. John Zuhlsdorf, who writes the popular blog What Does the Prayer Really Say?, has an excellent review of the "Confession App," including pictures.  After reading Fr. Z's commentary and looking at the images, one will realize that this app is nothing other than an electronic Examination of Conscience.  An Examination of Conscience, after all, is that time of prayer wherein a contrite sinner recalls each of those actions or omissions that have kept him/her away from God.

This app includes a "profile" section in which a penitent can identify his/her age and vocation.  Based on a person's profile, the app leads the user through a series of questions that reveal particular sins.  Those sins must be confessed to the priest in the confessional.  After the valid confession, the app provides several different versions of the Act of Contrition (allowing for personal preference), followed by words of encouragement from Scripture or the saints.

Is it always easy to find an Examination of Conscience sheet or pamphlet lying around your house or the chapel?  Not where I pray.  Is it always easy to remember which particular sins I've struggled against in the past?  Not upon my first several trips to the confessional.  (As a person goes regularly to the sacrament, patterns start to emerge.)  Is is possible to forget to confess a sin or two, even if we remembered it during our Examination of Conscience?  Absolutely!  This app might just help someone not to forget.

A final comment: I have not used the Confession app, and I probably will not.  However, I am very much in favor of reaching people via modern communication methods and devices.  If this app will bring a few contrite souls to the door of the Reconciliation room, then praise God!  The Sacrament of Reconciliation is such a blessing, and it is something that every person who seeks holiness should use.  This is just one more tool to help God's holy people remember that this sacrament isn't about fear or shame; it's about fining our way back into God's loving and fulfilling embrace!

If you have an iPhone and you'd like to try out the Confession app, visit www.littleiapps.com/confession or go to the iTunes store and search "Confession."

As always, I'm looking for more great questions.  If you have a question, please send an email to me.  I can't wait to find out what I get to answer next!  Until next time, I pray that God will bless you and your families!

Did anyone else forget that February ended?  Somehow, I keep forgetting (all day) that today is March 1.  Remember, though, that Spring Break is less than two weeks away!  WOW!

Last week's youth ministry gathering provided lots of laughs for all those who attended.  Let's review.

Two of our high school youth decided that they would show their appreciation for Irish culture by dancing a jig...

Two other youth stuffed their mouths with Super Bubble gum, and one of them almost retched on the floor...

Finally, one brave young lady volunteered to have her hair "styled" by another youth.  The poor girl probably still hasn't removed all of the gel that was used.

I'm sure that God smiled a little bit as He reminded us that teenagers surely are silly, but wonderful!

After all the silliness, our group settled down to hear the beautiful vocations stories of five wonderful people.  Through the course of that discussion, the teens realized that each vocation lifestyle (single life, married life, priesthood, and consecrated brotherhood) shares many joys and frustrations with the other lifestyles; and that each lifestyle has its own unique joys and frustrations.  Praise God that our young people are already realizing the beauty of every unique call that God makes to His people!

THIS WEEK IN YOUTH MINISTRY

Incarnation Teens Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER

• Wednesday, March 2
• 7:00-8:45pm in the Gym
• Gathering theme is "The Game of LIFE"
• Special visitors again!
• Bring a friend for all of the FUN!

Diocesan Youth Celebration

• Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5
• St. Benedict High School
• **Still time to register if you want to attend!
• **Cost is $45
• **All attendees must bring completed Health & Medical Release Form

Don't forget that Lent begins next week.  Ash Wednesday is Wednesday, March 9, which means you should go ahead and choose now what you shall sacrifice.  I'm thinking about sacrificing housework...ha!

As always, I'm still looking for great questions for the "Seeking Answers...?" column.  The next installment will be out tomorrow, so get your question in the queue for weeks to come!  Send an email to submit your question(s).

I look forward to seeing all of you soon.  Until then, remember that you and your family are in my prayers.  God bless!

Do any of you find yourself saying "Yes" to things and activities (religious, social, etc.) and then feeling overwhelmed?  I have felt that quite a bit in my life as a husband, father, minister, and lover of knowledge and sports.  I have often wondered and prayed about how to overcome those feelings...or how to prevent them in the first place.

Yesterday, I read an article entitled "The Secret to a Life of YES."  In this short article, the author brilliantly reminded readers, "The spirit of saying yes is ultimately a spirit of making prayerful decisions without fear."  I'll let you read the rest of her thoughts.

If we want to be blessed and happy in this Christian life, it is vital that we pray about where and when God desires us to use our talents and gifts.  Our goal of communion with God and fellow man can become blurred, and our souls can be harmed, if we say "Yes" to everything that is offered.

If you'd like to gain a better understanding of your own gifts, and the ways that God might be calling you to use them, please also consider registering for the Called & Gifted Workshop that is offered every year in our parish.  It's a great way to discern how and when to say "Yes"!  Send an email to me if you'd like more information.

Until next week, have a blessed weekend.  All of you are in my prayers.  God bless!

I've received another great question this week, and a short, simple answer will be a tall task.  I'm up for the challenge!  Please let me know, by the "Comments" section or by email, whether or not the answer is helpful.

A youth asked:

My friend at school is and Eastern Orthodox Christian, and she claims that her Church is the one, true Church.  She claims that the Roman Catholic Church broke away from that eastern Church.  How should I answer her?

Make no mistake: the contribution by the eastern Churches to the history, tradition, and abundant beauty of the Universal (Catholic) Church has been extraordinarily special!  In fact, the Universal Church was born in the east (Jerusalem); had its first Holy See in the east (Antioch; from whence St. Peter reigned as the first pope); received much of its early doctrinal and spiritual writings from the faithful in the east (St. Paul, St. Ignatius of Antioch, St. Polycarp, St. Athanasius, St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory of Nyssa, St. Gregory Nazianzen, St. Cyril of Jerusalem, St. Cyril of Alexandria, St. John of Damascus, and so on).  We cannot underestimate or under-appreciate the contribution made by our oriental (literally, "eastern") brethren.

We must, however, remember one key idea.  When eastern Christians, such as those mentioned above, were living, ministering, and writing, they recognized the ultimate authority of Peter's holy office, the papacy.  In the A.D. 60s, Peter moved to Rome, where he was martyred.  Every pope since then has been designated as the Bishop of Rome.  Those well-known theologians and spiritual writers never questioned the authority (granted by Christ; see Matthew 16:18) held by the Bishop of Rome.

For the first nine centuries of Church history, there was little or no debate over this reality.  However, there was the significant development of vastly different spiritual and theological traditions in both regions.  And, neither side was always tactful or graceful in its dealings with the other.  In short, the humans involved in this situation brought biases for their respective regions as well as hard feelings toward the other region.

In order to justify the schism from Rome, theologians from the east developed an intricate argument about the origin of the Holy Spirit within the Holy Trinity.  Basically, the Nicene Creed (which was also developed in the east) states that the Spirit "proceeds from the Father and the Son."  However, the eastern patriarchs said that the statement should be that the Spirit "proceeds from the Father, through the Son."  Thus, they had their reason to split from the one and only Holy See.  From that point, each side continued to view the other as "the offending party."  Thus, for the last 1000 years or so, the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church has not been fully unified.

The Second Vatican Council developed Orientalium Ecclesiarum, the Decree on the Catholic Churches of the Eastern Rite, which was an effort to begin a movement toward unity once again.  In the most recent generation of Roman Church leadership, Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI have held such a movement in high esteem, noting that the Universal Church should once again "breath with both of her lungs," the East and the West.

Finally, it is right to mention that the Eastern Orthodox Churches (Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, etc.) do have valid sacraments.  They have validly-ordained bishops, priests, and deacons.  They validly celebrate the "divine mysteries" of worship each week to confect the Holy Eucharist.  They hold valid confessions and confirmations and anointings of the sick.  In necessary circumstances, a Roman Catholic would be able to receive those sacraments in a parish of an eastern Church, and vice versa.

For more information on Eastern Catholic Churches and Eastern Orthodox Churches, visit one of the following websites:

Second Vatican Council: Decree on the Catholic Churches of the Eastern Rite

Catholic Encyclopedia: "Eastern Schism"

Catholic Answers: "Eastern Orthodoxy"

If you're still looking for more information on the subject, consider reading one of the following church history books, which treat the subject in more detail:

Compact History of the Catholic Church by Alan Schreck

Church History by Fr. John Laux

Triumph by Harry Crocker

As always, I look forward to reading your comments.  If you have a follow-up questions, or a question that you'd like me to answer in the future, feel free to send an email to me.  Until next time, God bless!

It's Tuesday again.  That means that it is time for me to recap the last great week of youth ministry, and to look ahead to another great week of youth ministry.  As always, if you have comments, leave them in the "Comments" section below.  If you have questions, you can feel free to send an email.  If you have pictures of our youth doing something amazing...or goofy...send them to me in an email and I'll try to work them into the blog.  Who doesn't like pictures?!

RECAP

Last week in youth ministry was pretty light, but it was great!  Of course, we all (or those of us who have significant others) began the week by gifting cards and candy and flowers on Valentines' Day.  Hallmark and florists all across America thank you for that!

Our Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER for high school youth was pretty amazing (at least I thought so).  Youth, feel free to comment below on how much fun you had.  The praise band lifted our hearts and minds through their music; the small groups came up with some really funny skits based on Scripture passages; the message was about answering God's call to serve other human beings and bring justice into the world; we heard a very moving witness story from a parishioner who volunteers every week at Birthright of Memphis, Inc.  Finally, our prayers reminded us to look for Christ's face in EVERY person we meet on a daily basis.

On Sunday, our middle school youth gathered for another B.A.S.I.C. gathering.  We had lots of laughs while we hosted our own version of "The Newly-Wed Game."  The Iosues competed against the Rottys.  Both couples learned a lot of new stuff about each other; and the Rottys were triumphant!  On a more embarrassing note, I attempted a ninja kick and caused a minor injury to myself.  Lesson learned: my ninja skills are too powerful to reveal in public.

THIS WEEK'S EVENT

• Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER (High School Youth)
• 7-8:45pm in the Gym
• Panel discussion on living out the call to holiness  (some really cool guests will be here)
• Bring your shoes for basketball and other games afterward
• Snacks will be provided

That's the only thing on the youth ministry calendar before next week, because the annual parish Light of the World Retreat is happening this coming weekend.  If you're attending the LOTW retreat, we'll see you there.  If you're not attending this year, please pray for the retreatants and for the success of the retreat overall.

Finally, if you're interested in submitting a question for the weekly "Seeking Answers...?" column, send an email to me.  The questions are lining up quickly, but I'll do my best to get to your question soon.  Until I write again, I'm praying for your family's holiness!

I received another great question to answer (or at least attempt to answer) in this week's column.  Keep the great questions coming by sending an email or posting the question in the "Comments" section below.

How can parents stay positive with their children about church, religion, etc., when the children have to attend public schools (due to financial constraints or other reasons) that are down on the subjects of faith and religious convictions?

Wow!  How shall I begin?  I'm sure that many of you have more experience with this situation than I do.  If you'd like to add to my comments and conclusions, please feel free to write in the "Comments" section below.

Allow me to begin with the basic teaching of the Catholic Church about parents, since that's the foundation of this question.  Paragraphs 2221 to 2231 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church deal with "The duties of parents."  Within those paragraphs, a reader will come across the following statements:

• "The right and the duty of parents to educate their children are primordial [present from the beginning] and inalienable [cannot be taken away]" (2221).
• "Parents must regard their children as children of God and respect them as human persons.  Showing themselves obedient to the will of the Father in heaven, they educate their children to fulfill God's law" (2222).
• "Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children" (2223).
• "The home is well suited for education in the virtues" (2223).
• "Through the grace of the sacrament of marriage, parents receive the responsibility and privilege of evangelizing their children" (2225).

I point out each of these statements to clarify that the Church proclaims and protects the right and duty of parents to form their children well in the ways of religion and virtue.  Since parents are the primary educators of their children, it is possible to raise good and holy children without sending them to Catholic schools.  I see evidence of this everyday in my job as I interact with families and youth who attend public schools.

We must not forget, however, that parents will only be effective in raising holy children if they take up efforts to be "obedient to the will of the Father" (CCC 2222).  Almost always, those youth who "hunger and thirst for righteousness" (Mt. 5:6) witness their parents doing the same thing.  As parents, we cannot underestimate the influence that we have on our children, both positively and negatively.  (A CD for parents that comes to mind is "How To Keep Your Kids Catholic" from Lighthouse Catholic Media.)

To be "obedient to the will of the Father" means that we must spend time in conversation, prayer, with Him.  Allow your teens to see you pray.  Tell your teens that you are implementing a family prayer time, even if it is only once or twice each week.  Praying as a family is essential for parents to show youth what's really important in their lives!

My next point is related to the one above.  Youth need a community of peers to support and encourage them as well as hold them accountable.  That's what youth ministry at our parish is for.  Not only do we provide solid teachings for the youth, but we provide a circle of friends and acquaintances who walk together while seeking the Kingdom of Heaven.  If youth are hesitant to get involved, they should consider participating on our summer softball team; attending the Steubenville Youth Conference during the summer; or signing up for one of our service projects.

Remember, though, that youth will often mimic their parents' actions.  So, it is also important for parents to become involved in some form of parish ministry or other; something that they are committed to on a regular basis that provides spiritual nourishment as well as community fellowship.  Parents, if you want something like this, think about attending the Light of the World Retreat, Fr. Parham's Bible study series, Fr. Ben's upcoming faith formation series, the Catholic Scripture Study series, or one of the plethora of other options that we have at our parish.  Ask me what's available.  This also has the double effect of allowing parents to feel more competent when discussing topics of faith and morals with teenagers.  (The old cliche goes, "You can't give what you don't have."  So, it's essential that parents have answer to teens' questions.)

Finally, parents would do well to present great print and video resources to their teens (birthday and Christmas gifts, or for "no reason at all except that I love you and care about your soul").  There is an abundance of phenomenal resources, directed toward youth, available.  Some of them are listed here:

• The "Prove It!" series (four books) among other resources for teens from Our Sunday Visitor Press
• Do I Have To Go?: 101 Questions About the Mass, the Eucharist, and Your Spiritual Life by Matt Pinto and Chris Stefanick
• Romance Without Regret (a DVD presentation from Catholic Answers)
• Champions of Faith (a documentary about professional baseball players and their devotion to our Lord)
• Great Catholic podcasts (since they all have iPods) like "The Catholic Cafe," "Catholic Answers Live," or "The Break with Fr. Roderick"
• Catholic websites like www.lifeteen.com, www.catholic.com, or so many others with solid content

I have a youth lounge full of stuff like this, so let me know if you would like to come in and browse.  Then, you can hand a book or DVD to your teen and say "We'll discuss this after you read/watch it.  I want to know what you think."

That leads to my final point.  Parents mustn't be afraid to bring up the topics of religion, faith, and morals with their children (or with each other, for that matter).  Youth have lots of great questions, and lots of significant thoughts on these topics.  All we have to do is open the door a little bit and let them know that we're interested in their spiritual health.

I pray constantly for our parish's youth and their families.  I pray that youth will be receptive and that parents will take up their responsibilities (to evangelize and teach) with courage and passion.  I pray that creating healthy families will help to transform the Church and the world!

Until next time, keep your questions coming.  I look forward to hearing from you.  God bless!

Greetings again!  This is amazing: this is the second consecutive week that I've been able to post this column!  "One more, and that's called a winning streak."  Official cool points and a public "shout out" on the blog if anyone can tell me from whence that movie quote came.

Now, on to the important information, the stuff that all of you really want to know.  What's happening this week in youth ministry?

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH

B.A.S.I.C. Gathering

• Sunday, February 20
• 4:00-6:00pm in the Gym
• Topic: 1 + 1 = 3, HUH?
• Gathering will include prayer, skits, discussion, snacks, and plenty of games!
• Bring a friend for the FUN!

Diocesan Youth Celebration

• Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5
• Held at St. Benedict High School
• Cost is $45 (includes all programs and Saturday dinner)
• **Contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation if you're interested in registering**

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR CONFIRMANDI AND PARENTS

Paperwork Deadlines

• All paperwork, including letter to Bishop Steib, is now due.  Get it in as quickly as possible, please.
• Service hours form and reflection paper is due no later than Sunday, March 6

Confirmation Liturgy

• Thursday, May 12
• Celebration held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (click here for directions)
• Click here to download the "Confirmation Liturgy Reminders" page
• **Liturgy begins at 7pm.  Confirmandi and sponsors must check in at Marian Hall (below the cathedral) at 6pm.**
• Contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation if you have any questions

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH

Wednesday Night ENCOUNTER

• Wednesday, February 16
• 7:00-8:45pm in the Gym
• Topic: "The Call to Justice and Service" (since we didn't get to it last week!)
• Gathering will include great activities, witness stories, and the praise band playing great music!

Teens Loving Christ

• Sunday, February 20
• 11:45am (immediately after 10:30am Mass) in the Youth Lounge
• **Lunch will be provided.**
• Bring your questions about Catholicism and life.  You never know where the discussion will lead...

Steubenville Payment Deadline

• Second (of 4) payments is due no later than Monday, February 28
• All payments are $75 each (total cost of conference is $300)

Diocesan Youth Celebration

• Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5
• Held at St. Benedict High School
• Cost is $45 (includes all programs and dinner on Saturday)
• **Contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation if you're interested in registering**

As always, you can send an email to me with any questions.  If you have comments, you can send an email or leave them in the "Comments" section below.

I look forward to seeing lots of youth and families at the events listed above!  Until then, I pray for blessings upon your family!

I'm doing pretty well at this blogging commitment!  I've posted three days in a row!  Lest I stumble and fall, I won't get too excited about such a minimal accomplishment.

This is the third (and final) column that I will try to write on a weekly basis.  It will simply contain small nuggets of truth and wisdom that will aid all of God's faithful people (you and me!) in your search for holiness and happiness.  After all, we all need a little help and encouragement while we're on this journey!

I'll begin with a simple recommendation.  Actually, it doesn't come from me; it comes from St. John Eudes instead.

"The air which we breathe, the bread which we eat, the heart which throbs in our bosoms, are not more necessary for man that he may live as a human being, than is prayer for the Christian that he may live as a Christian."

Let us never forget that prayer is more essential for sustaining our life (physical and spiritual) than air, water, food, or blood running through our veins.  Our Lord will work powerfully to overcome other shortcomings if we simply remember to connect to him!

Daily prayer, then, is the first step to a better, happier life.  If you already pray daily, then make an effort to pray in lots of different situations (and lots of different ways) throughout your day.  Join me in making an effort to pray always!

As I begin writing this column, Bon Jovi's "Livin' On A Prayer" is playing on the iPod and snow is falling outside of my kitchen window.  What great conditions for writing!  "We're halfway there!"

This is the first edition of a column series that I will write on as many Wednesdays as I possibly am able.  I will do my best to provide quick and clear answers to your questions, the things you want to know.  If you'd like to submit a questions, send an email to me.  I welcome questions from teens, young adults, and/or parents.

This week's column is based on the following question that arrived in my inbox yesterday.  "I read where the Pope stated that Purgatory is a process, not a place.  Could you tell me where it is in the Bible and what the Catechism says about this?"  I'm so glad that I get to start out with one of the most common and difficult questions.  Since Dante wrote his Divine Comedy, and especially since the 1500s, misunderstandings have been prevalent.

Our current pope, Benedict XVI, has taught on Purgatory on several occasions.  The most recent was in a message, dealing with St. Catherine of Genoa, given during his weekly General Audience on Wednesday, January 12.  There, the pope conveyed part of St. Catherine's mystical message.  St. Catherine, he said, did not understand Purgatory "as a place of transit in the depths of the earth: it is not an exterior fire, but an interior fire."  For the mystic saint, Purgatory was "precisely the love of God Himself which purifies the soul from the ravages of sin."  That's about all that Pope Benedict had time to teach, as the weekly audiences only contain about 5-10 minutes of teaching.

Probably the most important and detailed teaching that Pope Benedict XVI has given on Purgatory was presented in Spe Salvi, his encyclical letter published in 2007.  In that letter to the Universal Church, he reminded the faithful that ideas of purification after death and prayers for the dead pre-date Christianity. One Scripture passage that is commonly used to prove this point is 2 Maccabees 12:42-45.  In that passage, Judas Maccabeus took up a "sin offering" to be sent to Jerusalem on behalf of dead soldiers who had broken the Divine Law.  The Scripture says: "In doing this he acted very well and honorably...he made atonement for the dead, that they might be delivered from their sin."  So, it is easily understood from this passage that praying for the dead is honorable, and that it has an effect on them in the afterlife.  One of the biggest reasons that non-Catholic Christians reject the doctrine of Purgatory is because they have first rejected 2 Maccabees as inspired Scripture (that's a different article, if someone asks the question).

Benedict went on to present the writings of St. Paul, specifically 1 Corinthians 3:11-15, as evidence for the Church's teaching on Purgatory.  St. Paul wrote that "each man's work will become manifest" on Judgment Day, and that a "fire will test what sort of work each one has done.  If the work which any man has build on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward.  If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire."  There isn't another way to interpret this passage.  On Judgment Day, the Lord will test everyone's foundation of life.  Those who have built their foundation on Jesus Christ will survive and "receive a reward," even if they must "suffer loss...through fire."

The Catechism of the Catholic Church offers a few brief paragraphs on "The Final Purification, or Purgatory" (CCC 1030-1032).  The definition comes first.

Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 1030: "All who die in God's grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven."

After the definition, we are reminded that Purgatory is a "doctrine of faith" (CCC 1031), which means that it must be accepted.  We cannot dismiss it from our personal set of beliefs; and it will not be changed or discarded by the Church.  That is why the Church makes a point to remind us of its pre-Christian and Scriptural foundations.

Purgatory is the process during which "the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold which though perishable is tested by fire" (1 Peter 1:7).  As Pope Benedict has taught us in Spe Salvi, it is the process by which "the impurity and sickness of our lives become evident to us" and we experience the "blessed pain, in which the holy power of his love sears through us like a flame."  He also teaches us that we cannot know the "duration" of Purgatory because it transcends our understanding of time.  Benedict writes that "it is the hearts' time, it is the time of 'passage' to communion with God" (#47).  One thing we do know, however: if you get to Purgatory, your ultimate destination is Heaven!

Two analogies have helped me to gain a better understanding of the purpose of Purgatory, and that it is a great grace from God.

1) Purgatory is like the final rinse cycle of your washing machine.  The clothes are already clean, but they need that finishing touch in order to be "wearable."

2) Purgatory is like the bride's room at a church before a wedding.  The bride is mostly clean and ready for her wedding feast.  In the bride's room, all the final preparations are made, including that the woman dons her white garment (representing perfect purity).  From that place, she goes directly to meet her groom.  Once we have been through Purgatory, our souls are rid of "impurity and sickness," and we can go to meet the Eternal Bridegroom.

For more information on Purgatory, click the following links to other articles:

• "A Plethora of Purgatory Ponderings" by Kelly Wahlquist
• "Purgatory" in The Catholic Encyclopedia

To read the full text of Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical, Spe Salvi, click here.

If this answer was helpful to you, leave a comment in the box below.  If this column caused you to think of another question, send an email to me.  I pray that I have provided the answer(s) that you need.

**PLEASE NOTE: PRE CLASSES AND INCARNATION TEENS ENCOUNTER WILL BE CANCELLED IF SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS CLOSE OR CLOSE EARLY TOMORROW, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9.  PLEASE WATCH LOCAL WEATHER REPORTS FOR THAT DECISION.**

It has been far too long since I've written a blog post on this site!  This is such a great medium for me to share information, stories, photos, and videos; but I haven't used it nearly enough.  So, I have a new resolution: I will use this blog to get out as much necessary information as possible.  I will still use email for extra-important things, but I want all of you to come here to find out what's happening "This Week in Youth Ministry."  Please feel free to forward links to each and every blog post; and feel free to leave comments (I get those, too).  Of course, you can still call or email my office any time that you have a need.  I want everybody to have as much information as they possibly can about all the great things happening in our parish's youth ministry!

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH

• Sunday, February 13
• 4-6pm in the Fellowship Hall
• Topic: "Gone Fishin'"
• Gathering will include games, snacks, discussion, and prayer
• Bring a friend for the fun

• Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5
• Held at St. Benedict High School
• **Still time to register.  Contact Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation if you're interested.**

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR CONFIRMANDI AND PARENTS

• All paperwork, including the letter to Bishop Steib, is now due
• Service hours form and reflection paper due by Sunday, March 6

• Thursday, May 12
• 6pm (Confirmandi and sponsors check in) at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
• Click here for directions

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH

• Wednesday, February 9
• 7-8:45pm in the HFLC Gym
• Topic: "The Call to Justice and Service"
• Praise band playing, great activities and discussion, and witness stories!

• Second payment ($75) due no later than Monday, February 28

• Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5
• Held at St. Benedict High School
• **Still time to register.  Contact Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation if you're interested.**

 As always, please feel free to contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Formation if you have any questions or comments!  I look forward to seeing youth and families at all of the events listed above!

Until next time, your families are in my prayers!  God bless!

If we've been listening to Fr. Parham's recent homilies, the "three Es" of our parish are "experience," "engage," and "encounter."  This is the process by which we move closer to Our Lord and, finally, fall head-over-heels in love with Him.

It is no coincidence that we began calling our high school youth ministry gatherings ENCOUNTERs.  I hope, the core team hopes, and the pastoral staff hopes, that those gatherings are an opportunity for the youth of our parish to fall head-over-heels in love with Christ.  I can only gauge by the feedback I've received, but I gather that the Incarnation Teens really are encountering the Lord at those weekly gatherings (through each other and through the teachings presented).  I suppose that they wouldn't keep returning again and again if they didn't receive something from the experience.

Last night was another instance in which the teens of our parish had an opportunity to encounter Jesus in a real and beautiful way.  The core team and the priests hosted a worship experience for high school youth.  That worship experience included a praise band to play music, Eucharistic Adoration, Reconciliation, and Benediction (blessing with the exposed Host).  Everyone knelt in the presence of Our Lord, everyone sang songs of praise to Him from their hearts, and nearly 40 teenagers (and a few adults) received Reconciliation.  It was, indeed, a blessed evening!

I will savor the beauty of last night while I look forward to more opportunities to share spiritual growth with our parish's teens.  I encourage everyone else who was there to do the same; and I encourage everyone who was not there to come and ENCOUNTER Christ with us, next Wednesday at 7pm.  Until then, I pray that God's blessings will be with all the teens of our parish and their families.

"Serve the Lord with fear, with trembling," King David writes in Psalm 2, verse 11.  Such fear of the Lord, which is a great gift, is often misunderstood.

We ought to fear the Lord, Who is our Creator and our Judge.  Yet, having a healthy fear of Him, along with humility, will cause us to "take refuge in him," Who is our Help and our Shield.  To fear the Lord is to understand the awesome things that God has planned for each of us and for humanity.  To "take refuge in him" is to start moving in the direction of holiness, away from the things of the world.

I was praying over a spiritual text from the 17th century yesterday morning, and I came across the following passage:

"We ought firmly to resolve to overcome, with the grace of God assisting us, the many difficulties which will meet us in the spiritual life."

What a simple, but brilliant recognition!  Yes, friends, we must make such a resolution.  We must make it today, tomorrow, and everyday for the rest of our lives.

We must also recognize that we cannot attain such a feat on our own.  We must rely, first and foremost, on the grace of God.  He has already won the battle for us; and He will assist us against our enemies!

This past weekend, 23 youth from our parish attended our first-ever retreat for middle school youth.  The youth gathered for dinner and the first session on Friday evening at The Grove at Red Oak Lake in Cordova.  Then, they stayed overnight in cabins and participated in a full day of activities on Saturday.  The retreat concluded with many of the youth, chaperones, and parents attending 5pm Mass together at our parish.

The fun began with a competition to find our which youth could lay flat on his/her back and eat a whole donut that was tied on a string.  The winner sure was excited!  And the adult chaperones were laughing...a lot!

Another portion of the first evening was spent getting to know each others' names and personalities.  We found out that some of the young men in our group are into new types of facial art.

Of course, no retreat would be complete without listening to a series of talks and gathering for discussion in small groups.  Three talks were given: "God Begins to Reveal His Plan," "Jesus: The Fulfillment of God's Plan," and "YOU: A Part of God's Plan."  Before, during, and after each talk, youth participated in activities, demonstrations, and discussions that helped them to understand the lesson more fully.

During more than one session, youth got to interact with each other (that means be silly with each other) by making up a creative, goofy style of walking...

...and by trying to be the first team to have a member wearing a frozen t-shirt...

Between sessions on Saturday, the youth and adults had free time, which included volleyball, paddle boating, canoeing, and making silly faces.

Surely, God was among these youth and chaperones from our parish as we retreated from everyday life and sought Him.  We listened to the ways that He's made His plan known among us, and we asked Him to show us exactly how we fit into that plan.  We had lots of fun and, most importantly, grew closer to the One who will bring us to salvation!

I look forward to hearing your feedback about this retreat, and I look forward to planning another retreat for a great group of middle school youth next year!  As always, I pray that God will bless you and your families!

Hey, folks!  This is my first whirl at making a regular blog entry for the ministry department that I oversee at the parish.  For the time being, I'm going to keep the entries really general; I'm going to combine information about middle school and high school youth ministry in many posts.  Special events (retreats, service projects, my spectacular culinary achievements) will, of course, deserve and receive specific attention.  Then, there is the new ministry to young adults and families in our parish that will receive some publicity here.  So, I've got plenty to share.  I guess I'll get started.

September is now almost over, and our annual schedule is into full swing.  We kicked off our year of ministry with an event for all youth of the parish (6th through 12th grades) and their families.  That celebration focused on our annual theme "Grace Upon Grace" (see Jn 1:16-18).  To illustrate that God continues to give us grace on top of grace, we ate double cheeseburgers.  After dinner, the Young Apostles (our ministry's peer leadership team) performed an enthralling skit, which they had written by themselves, for the crowd.  Fr. Ben and I gave the keynote message: another chance to talk about food!

The highlight of the event was surely the new praise band that has been assembled to serve the youth ministry.  They performed four songs that they had diligently practiced during the summer months.  The music surely lifted up our spirits as we lifted our voices in praise of our Lord!

Since the kickoff celebration, we've had several ministry events: a group trip to the bowling alley, a middle school dance, Wednesday Night ENCOUNTERs, and the first B.A.S.I.C. gathering of the semester.  I can assure all of you that it has been a whole bunch of fun.  It has been more fun than the funnest thing you can imagine, really!  If I could figure out how to upload pictures to this blog, you'd get to see the evidence.  I'll work on making that happen!

I'll give you one example.  Last night's ENCOUNTER brought impromptu performances (using costumes, of course) of some of the greatest musical masterpieces of the 1980s.  Groups "sang" (that is, they butchered the words) "Uptown Girl" by Billy Joel, "We're Not Gonna Take It" by Twisted Sister, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, "Beat It" by Michael Jackson, and others.  Yours truly even served as the front man for the most hysterical act of the evening: "Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Bonnie Tyler.  The fun never ends; it goes on and on and on and on, to quote Steve Perry.

So what's next?  The Incarnation Teens will continue their series on the sacraments of the Catholic Church during ENCOUNTERs, and they will resume their Teens Loving Christ series on Sunday afternoons during October.  Brothers And Sisters In Christ (B.A.S.I.C.) will host its first-ever retreat for middle school youth on October 1-2.  And, we're in the process of planning a one-day service project for youth and their families who want to participate.  As you can see, there's plenty to be done, and there are lots of opportunities for every youth to get involved.  I really, really hope that every youth does choose to get involved and walk with us as we try to grow closer to Christ!

Until next time, I continue to hold the youth of this parish and their families in my prayers.  God bless!