Usually, during a California summer, the image of rain coming down on us is rather remote. However, when I was a child in Pennsylvania and later Indiana, summer rains were common. I still remember listening to the pitter-patter of raindrops, safe and snug in bed under the eaves in our cozy Cape Cod house; or, as a young man, on the sides of a pup tent after a day of hiking. There was always a sense of peace and calm before the voice of God in nature. I felt assured to rest in the Lord’s loving embrace.

In our secular society we accept the same challenge St. Paul made in ancient Rome in his letter to the Romans: “You are not in the flesh; on the contrary, you are in the spirit, if only the Spirit of God dwells in you. ..For if you live according to the flesh, you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” More than ever we are true patriots when we are devoted and faithful Christians.

Dear Parishioners and Friends, May God bless you and your loved ones on this Fourth of July weekend!