September 20, 2020 – 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

I.  What does it mean to be a Catechist?  The word catechist from the original Greek, literally means “to echo,” “to resound,” “to teach by word of mouth,” i.e. a teacher of the principles of the faith. A catechist is one who “echoes” by word and deed what it means to follow Jesus, to live as a missionary disciple of Jesus.  Of course, parents are the first catechists of their children, a promise which was made at their child’s Baptism.  I would like to thank our parents for teaching their children by word and especially by example. Much Christian and Catholic formation takes place in the “domestic/home church.” On behalf of the whole community, much gratitude to others in our faith community who have stepped forward to be catechists for our adults, teens, and children.  

     The 2020 Catechetical Sunday theme is taken from St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, “I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you.” It emphasizes that living faith necessitates movement, inspiring all those who hear the Word and to share it as witnesses of the true and living God (Bishop Robert Barron). The role of a catechist is to share and model our Catholic Faith. Catechists are people who allow the Word of God to “echo” through their life. 

     Because of COVID-19 restrictions, coupled with our lack of space, this school year our parents and guardians are asked to play a more central role in teaching the basics of faith at home for all students in public school. Materials were available for pick-up last week. If you have not yet collected your materials or still need to register, please contact Hannah Bland, our Director of Children’s Ministry, 270/683-6525, [email protected]

II.  COME AND SEE!  Hour of Prayer, Sunday Night, September 20, 6:00pm. Be present for the whole hour or for just 15 minutes! Rest with the Lord. “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). The Sacrament of Reconciliation will also be available. There will be music to enhance our prayer and worship time. “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”  (Philipians 4:6-7) Come & See!

III. The Bulletin and The Parishioner Combined!  Next weekend, we will be MAILING a bulletin to all registered parishioners! It will be a combination of our regular bulletin with The Parishioner, our quarterly newsletter about our parishioners in ministry in the parish and beyond. So, next week’s bulletin will be bigger and better! Despite the limitations of COVID-19, I am amazed at how active and alive our Parish Community is. There are still opportunities for those who wish to be involved! Our plan is that you will receive this expanded bulletin with The Parishioner before Sunday, September 27! Wait for it in the mail!

IV.  Cathedral Pre-School is Booming! Last week parent orientation sessions were held ten (10) parents at a time!  With the opening day of Monday, September 14, there were a lot of excited kiddos for the “Meet and Greet!”  All classes are full with waiting lists. The only exception is a couple of 3 year old openings, 2 day classes with WrapAround option. We have 94 students, even with the COVID-19 guidelines! As Director Pam Weafer noted, “We are excited to be back with lots of safety and health precautions in place to keep everyone healthy.” A special note of gratitude for Pam Weafer and her assistant, Bonnie Stuart, for their many extra hours of planning to make it happen this year!!  Her teachers and aides, as well as the “Wrap Around Care” (before and after school care) personnel, are ready and upbeat!

V.  Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, Saint or Sinner—Both:  Matthew or Levi as he was known, was a Jewish man working for the Romans in 30 A.D. as a tax collector. He was seen as a sinner because of his underhanded “taxing,” especially with the poor, who had no way of protecting themselves. When Jesus called Matthew at his post, his decision to follow that called  changed the direction of his life. The abilities and qualities that Jesus recognized in Matthew found a new purpose and a new source of inspiration and fulfillment. I invite you to celebrate the feast of Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, on Monday, September 21, at 12:05 noon Mass. Saint Matthew, pray for us!