"Let's get it together." This can mean either pulling myself
together or uniting with others for a common purpose.
Certainly, the Church stands ready to assist each of us on the
narrow way of our faith journey. She also is missioned
to help each level of society to pull its members
together to help Christ fulfill his plan of salvation
-- to bring an already established Kingdom of God to its
fullness.
Monastics, with their pursuit of perfect charity through
poverty, chastity and obedience, are the best models of
this effort of a single-purposed life, both individually
and communally.
This year we focus on Together, building God's Kingdom,
through strengthening life in the family, in the
parishes, in the eparchy, in society at large.
We know that to do this we shall have to continue our efforts
to improve (1) worship and prayer; (2) proclaiming the
Gospel; (3) service to those in need; and (4) building
community, all within our Byzantine Catholic
spirituality.
Like pieces of a puzzle, each of us is important to completing
our mission. Unlike a puzzle, we rely on the Holy Spirit
to pull us together rather than depending on our own
cleverness.
The support of struggling parishes and missions and monastic
life, formation of priests and deacons, educational and
formation experiences for the laity, and support of
clergy who are no longer able to serve actively, are
among the many needs that will be aided by your
participation in this Stewardship Appeal.
Please be generous to this annual appeal. Much can be done.
Many are ready and willing to cooperate with your
generosity. Your church depends on you. The world
depends on us.
Let's all do our 'piece.'
Blessings,
+Bishop John,
September 2011
