Pastor's Note

SUMMER PLANS
June 3rd, 2007

persons were standing in a circle talking about their summer plans. One said that she and her husband would have several family weddings to attend this summer. Another suggested how this was the year he was going to build a deck off the back door. A few talked about some vacation time they would spend at nearby lakes. One talked about the reading she wanted to do this summer.
Summer means different things to different people. With school out, schedules are bound to change for most people, including those who no longer have school-age children. Summer is a time for family gatherings and cook-outs, spending more time with friends and letting go of some of life’s tensions.
Of course, summer comes fast and is over before most people are ready. Consequently, you have to seize each day and enjoy good weather, opportunities to be outside, and all the beauty of people’s gardens.
Here are two things to keep in mind as you enter into summer. First, please don’t consider a break from Sunday Mass as a way to step-back from obligations. In fact, summer liturgy is often more exciting because people come to church a little more relaxed.
Secondly, there is what I call a ‘summer spirituality.’ This is a good time to read something spiritual, to meditate on God’s wonders, and to playfully rest in the Lord’s goodness. Whether you are traveling or just sitting in your backyard, summer can be a very good time to re-engage yourself with the Lord’s plan.
Enjoy summer and let this season be a time for spiritual growth as you also try to enjoy some down-time.