Pastor's Note

NOT JUST FOR KIDS ANYMORE
October 29th, 2006

I was in a store last week when I saw an entire aisle of Halloween masks, plastic jack-o-lanterns, and trick or treat supplies. A large section at the end displayed costumes. Amazingly, many of the costumes were adult sizes. And sure enough, a woman was checking out a costume, holding it up to herself for size.
Many of you may have noticed that in past years, adults have found renewed interest in putting on costumes and masks and going to their own parties. People seem to enjoy masquerading as different characters. Often adults allow their child-like playfulness to come out in this way.
Seeing ourselves in costume or trying to be more playful can have a good side to it. We live in a highly technological and precise world, which can also be very sterile. Imagination and play both bring a sense of humanity back into our lives. Role playing and taking on other characters can be healthy for both children and adults.
There is a connection between such playfulness and the ability to enter into liturgical prayer. Obviously, the mass is not play. But a willingness to freely express ourselves and transcend our inhibitions can allow for a good celebration of Eucharist. Praying aloud and singing, not to mention joyfully welcoming each other, require us to go slightly outside our comfort zone.
And as we take on new characters this time of year, the church also offers thousands of images of saints. Imagining their lives and seeing ourselves in their roles can also inspire us to live ways we never before thought possible.
Plan now to join us for the All Saints Day celebrations this week.