Jesus called all his listeners, of whatever profession, to be saints. A few he called to leave their fishing boats or tax tables behind to proclaim the Gospel. The vast majority he called to proclaim the Gospel by living that Good News right where they were. That’s still what Jesus does today.
One of the things I love about spending time with my very young grandchildren is being privy to their moments of wonder.
In light of the second annual World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, established by Pope Francis in 2021 and observed on the third Sunday of July, I was asked to write an article on the unique experience of senior grief. I interviewed a psychologist and family counselor who serves in a grief support program, and a number of parish bereavement and consolation coordinators.
“Where are you?”
It’s the first question God asks of Adam in the Garden of Eden, and it’s a question I’ve asked my children hundreds of times when they were young.
One of our favorite summer dishes is ambrosia, a mixture of fruits, coconut flakes, mini marshmallows, cherries, and whipped topping. While the sugary additions diminish the healthy aspect, my sons will fight over the last bowl and have always agreed to the meaning of ambrosia as “nectar of the gods.”
Spiritual growth is ongoing and lifelong, and all teachers benefit from staying connected to the source of our life, Jesus. As the new school year approaches, consider adding one or two practices that draw you closer to God and toward deeper, more life-giving relationships.
“Some days my daughter barely looks up from her phone. I’m worried she’s addicted.”
All of my children were raised Catholic, went to Sunday Mass, received all their Sacraments, and were educated from K-12 in Catholic schools. And yet, when a crisis arises in their lives, they call me for prayer.