Keep the Fires of Pentecost Burning
By Pixie Smith
On Pentecost
Sunday, Jesus’ initial greeting to his disciples was, “Peace be with you.” And after showing them his wounds, he said,
“Peace be with you. As the Father has
sent me, so I send you.”
As we send out
our catechists, participants and families for the summer how do we nurture
peace in our hearts, our families, our communities? Can we help them keep the fires of Pentecost
Peace burning? Here are some ideas:
For catechists:
1. Encourage
gatherings through the summer – Use one of our adult spirituality books for a
summer book club.
2. Create
prayer partnering opportunities.
3. Publish
a summer newsletter to stay connected.
For program participants:
4. Plan
summer service/missionary projects
5. Plant
a “peace garden” on the parish property
6. Give
everyone a list of RCLB website links to games and activities to continue their
“faith practice” during the summer.
For families:
7. Facilitate
an “adopt-a-family” project connecting new parishioners with existing families.
8. Hold
family intergenerational events – Try using RCL Benziger’s Family Life Program.
9. Give
parents a list of RCLB website links to Sister Rose’s movie reviews, Gospel
reflections and family activities.
Rekindle the flame of the spirit on Pentecost, and continue
to fan those flames throughout the summer months. Peace be with you…