A Message from the Pew
by Joe Marateo
As our summer draws to a close and the cool air of fall begins to arrive, we as Catholics are reminded of the seasons God has placed before us. Just as the earth shifts from one season to another, so too are we called to embrace the seasons of our spiritual lives.
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). The fall season brings renewed energy, activity and growth. It is a time of gathering, giving and preparation. Our parish life at Holy Spirit also begins to “heat up” with our faith, thriving ministries and many special parish events.
This season, we look forward to our annual Spirit 500 Raffle & Dinner/Tricky Tray, the Thanksgiving Pie Sale and the renowned Father Alphonse Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea holiday concert. These are more than dates on a calendar, they are opportunities for fellowship, for sharing our gifts and for drawing closer together as one parish family. Each event strengthens not only our community bonds but also our commitment to live out the Gospel in joyful ways.
Just as farmers gather their harvest in the fall, we are called to bring forth the fruits of our faith, kindness, service, generosity and prayer. The harvest is not only about what we receive, but also about what we give back to God and to one another. St. Paul reminds us “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not give up.”
As we move from the restful pace of summer into the busier days of fall, let us take to heart the rhythm of the seasons. Summer may have offered us rest and renewal, but fall invites us to action and to serve. May we carry with us the peace that only Christ gives and may our hearts remain open to the new beginnings God places before us in this season of abundance.
Lord of all seasons, bless our parish family and friends as we enter this new time of grace. May the work of our hands, the love in our hearts and the joy of our gatherings bring glory to Your name. Help us to bear good fruit in faith, hope and charity, and to walk together as disciples of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.