July 18, 2021 - The Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Enjoy Summer!
July18,2021
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
As you read my letter this week I am absent from the parish on a simple vacation – just some time to get away and take it easy. You may have noticed that even the busy apostles were invited by the Lord to relax and rest after their mission to present the Gospel: “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” During the summer months many go on vacations. In Rome, because of the intense heat, the Holy Father used to move to his summer residence at Castel Gondolfo. Pope Francis has always chosen to stay in Rome. Nevertheless, the Vatican offices are closed down. We all need from time to time moments of relaxation which lead to a renewal of mind, body, and soul. Such time even helps us work better when we return to our normal schedules.
The apostles and the Lord would find this out. Soon after they had gone off for a little rest the people in need of their ministry would hunt them down. As the Good Shepherd, they would pursue Jesus for His comforting words and healing touch. It could in time also be said of the apostles. This is how Jesus would train those who would follow Him. He wanted them to be good shepherds in loving the people and serving them. Like Him the apostles would be called to lay down their lives for the flock. What happened then is still the standard for the Church today.
The first reading of the Mass this Sunday from Jeremiah warns the shepherds that they must be good ones. I ask for your prayers as the pastor, or shepherd, of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. I know that I have my weaknesses and shortcomings, and that I must ask the Lord to strengthen me. We should all pray for the Church’s shepherds: the pope, bishops, and priests. They are entrusted with a daunting task. The Lord promises to be there for them come what may.
In a sense, all in the Church are asked to step forward and serve as good shepherds. Parents know this well in their important role as Christian mothers and fathers. A Christian husband leads his wife and children to the Lord. A Christian mother does the same for her husband and children. In this way we continue the saving mission of Christ in our homes among those we love the most. With great affection and confidence let us pray often Psalm 23.
Yours in our Lord and our Lady, Fr. Mark G. Mazza, Pastor