Pastor's Note

A WALK IN THE WOODS
October 1st, 2006

Two Sundays ago, I was privileged to walk with eighteen of our junior high group as part of “Hiking with Herb.” The reports that I have heard indicate the kids enjoyed the outing. I know I did.
Since that afternoon walk in Oak Openings Park, I have asked myself what made it so great. Each participant was given a walking stick and some trail mix. We studied the map of trails together, and then set off. Along the way I, or other adult leaders – and the kids themselves – pointed out some of the sights. We also stopped to rest, ate some of the snacks, and told stories. As we walked, there was usually some easy conversation taking place. At times, however, we were silent and simply listened.
It all sounds like a normal walk in the woods. For me it has become a metaphor for church. The Second Vatican Council (1962-65) said we are a pilgrim church, on a journey to the Lord. It’s very much like a group of people taking a walk together.
We have leaders to guide us and we have the assistance of maps and walking sticks. Our church heritage, the Scriptures, our teachings, and our beliefs keep us going.
As we travel together as church, we often point out sights along the way. No bishop or pastor has all the answers. The Holy Spirit truly works through all. Sometimes even children’s words inspire us.
Perhaps the best thing to remember about walking and pilgrimage is that we have to keep moving. We can’t settle in and think that we are ‘there’ yet. We know our destination is beyond the here and now.
Thanks to those who walked with me. And thanks to all of you who are traveling as church together in this exciting journey of Blessed John XXIII Parish. As we continue to find various places to meet for Mass, meetings, or Generations of Faith, we are truly pilgrims.