Preparing Our Hearts: A Lenten Journey Towards Eternity

The season of Lent, a time of reflection and renewal, draws near. It is a sacred opportunity to turn our hearts towards God, to examine our lives, and to prepare for the glorious celebration of Easter. This preparation is not merely a ritual, but a profound journey of spiritual transformation, a pilgrimage towards eternal life with our Lord. Now is the time to begin, to ask God to illuminate the areas in our lives that need change, not just for temporal comfort, but for the sake of our eternal souls.

Lent calls us to contemplate the immense sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. His suffering and death were the ultimate act of love, a victory over sin and death, opening the gates of Heaven for us. As we journey through these forty days, we must fix our gaze on the cross, meditating on the depth of His love and the magnitude of His sacrifice. This contemplation should stir within us a desire to align our lives with His, to abandon the fleeting pleasures of the world and embrace the eternal joy of His presence.

We cannot undertake this journey alone. We must humbly ask the Holy Spirit to be our guide and strength. The Spirit, the Advocate, will illuminate our hearts, revealing our weaknesses and guiding us towards true conversion. We must pray for the grace to discern the changes God desires for us, to relinquish those things that hinder our relationship with Him, and to embrace those virtues that lead us closer to His heart. This discernment is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process, a constant striving to conform our lives to the image of Christ.

Furthermore, we are called to support one another in this spiritual journey. Jesus established the Catholic Church as a community of love, forgiveness, and support. Lent is a time to strengthen these bonds, to offer encouragement, and to pray for one another. We are not solitary pilgrims, but members of the Body of Christ, united in our longing for eternal life. Let us walk together, sharing our struggles and celebrating our victories, knowing that Christ is present in our midst.

To guide us on this path, let us reflect on the wisdom of our spiritual ancestors:

Pope John Paul II: “Lent is a privileged time of interior pilgrimage towards Him who is the source of mercy. It is a time when we can rediscover the gift of God and realize our own weakness.” This reminds us that Lent is a time of grace, a chance to rediscover God's mercy and acknowledge our need for His saving love.

St. Francis of Assisi: “Let us begin, brothers, to serve the Lord God, for up to now we have done little or nothing.” This statement calls for action, a commitment to actively serving God and making tangible changes in our lives.

St. Ignatius of Loyola: "To give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labor and not to ask for any reward, save that of knowing that we do thy will." St. Ignatius speaks to the spirit of self-sacrifice, asking us to dedicate ourselves fully to God's will, without seeking earthly rewards.

As we prepare for Lent, let us open our hearts to God's transforming grace. Let us seek His guidance, embrace His love, and support one another in our journey towards eternal life. May this Lenten season be a time of profound spiritual renewal, leading us closer to Christ and preparing us for the joy of Easter and the eternal glory of Heaven.

Why Washington's "National Cathedral" Isn't: A Matter of Dioceses and Definitions

The majestic Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, perched atop Mount St. Alban in Washington D.C., is often referred to as the "Washington National Cathedral." While its grandeur certainly lends itself to such a title, the reality is far more nuanced, and frankly, more diocesan.

Let's cut to the core: there is no such thing as a "national cathedral" in the way many people assume. To understand why, we need to understand what a cathedral is. A cathedral is the seat of a bishop within a diocese. Notre-Dame in Paris is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Paris, St. Paul's in London is the cathedral of the Diocese of London. These are diocesan, not national, landmarks.

The Washington Cathedral, despite its grand name, is the seat of the Episcopal Bishop of Washington and the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the United States. However, the Presiding Bishop is not a "national bishop," and the Episcopal Church is not the "national church." The United States, like most countries, does not have a national diocese.

Therefore, calling it the "national cathedral" is a misnomer, a piece of "Washingtonian hyperbole," as some might say. It’s a bit like calling a particularly large and important public library the "national library" simply because it's in the capital.

This mislabeling is only one piece of a larger issue. The Washington Cathedral, like some Anglican cathedrals in the UK, has increasingly become an "event space." Corporate holiday parties, complete with light shows, dance floors, and bars, have transformed the sacred nave into a secular venue. This commercialization raises serious questions about the respect for sacred space and the purpose of a cathedral.

This secularization of what is called a "national cathedral" highlights a deeper absence: the lack of a strong synthesis between culture, society, and the Church, a synthesis once embodied by the great cathedrals of the past.

As Pope Benedict XVI eloquently stated in a homily at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York, the beauty of a cathedral, and of the Church itself, is best understood "from the inside." He used the analogy of stained-glass windows: from the outside, they appear dark and dreary, but from the inside, they are vibrant and luminous.

The unity of a cathedral, like the unity of the Church, is a dynamic tension, a harmonious interplay of diverse elements pointing toward Heaven. We, as members of the Church, are called to invite others "inside," to experience the radiant beauty of God's presence.

A true cathedral, functioning as intended, serves as a powerful call to evangelization. It's a reminder of our spiritual heritage and an invitation to participate in the life of grace. The Washington Cathedral, by blurring the lines between sacred and secular, risks losing this essential function.

Ultimately, the issue isn't simply about semantics. It's about understanding the true purpose of a cathedral and preserving its sacred character in a world increasingly dominated by secular values. 

The Tri-Form Body of Christ: A De Lubacian Perspective

Henri de Lubac, a prominent 20th-century theologian, offered profound insights into the mystery of Christ, particularly through his retrieval of the patristic concept of the "tri-form body of Christ." This notion illuminates the multifaceted presence of Christ in the world, encompassing three inseparable dimensions: the incarnate Christ, the Eucharistic Christ, and the ecclesial Christ.

First, there is the historical Jesus, the Word of God incarnate, whose life, death, resurrection, and ascension form the foundation of our faith. This is the primary and originating meaning of the "body of Christ." This singular event of God becoming human is the wellspring from which all else flows.

Secondly, Christ's presence continues through the Eucharist, his Eucharistic body. This is not merely a symbolic representation, but a real and substantial presence, nourishing the Church and building it up as Christ's own mystical body. De Lubac’s famous phrase, "the Church makes the Eucharist, and the Eucharist makes the Church," highlights this dynamic reciprocity. As Pope Benedict XVI, drawing from de Lubac, explained in Sacramentum Caritatis, this interplay reveals the primacy of Christ's self-gift. The Church's ability to celebrate the Eucharist is rooted in Christ's prior gift of himself on the Cross. "He first loved us" (1 Jn 4:19) – this truth resonates powerfully in every Eucharistic celebration, reminding us of the eternal priority of Christ's love. The Eucharist is Christ giving himself, continually building us into his body.

Finally, the Church itself constitutes Christ's ecclesial body. We, the baptized, are incorporated into Christ, becoming part of a new supernatural reality inaugurated by the Paschal Mystery. This incorporation isn't just an individual matter; it's a communal one, drawing us into a network of relationships that define our new being in Christ.

Two key consequences emerge from this understanding of the tri-form body. Firstly, salvation is understood as incorporation into this body of Christ. It's not merely an individual transaction, but a participation in the new life offered through Christ's paschal sacrifice. Secondly, the ecclesial body is perpetually dependent on its head, Christ. The Church, both historically and eternally, is not a separate entity, but receives its life and sustenance from the ascended Christ through the Holy Spirit. The Eucharist, as the primary means of participating in this divine life, becomes essential for the Church's existence and growth.

De Lubac’s vision of the tri-form body of Christ offers a powerful image of the interconnectedness of Christ's presence in the world. The incarnate Christ, the Eucharistic Christ, and the ecclesial Christ are not separate entities, but three dimensions of the same mystery. They reveal the ongoing work of the Trinity in creation, culminating in the "recapitulation of all things in Christ" (Eph 1:10), a concept central to both Irenaeus and de Lubac. This vision emphasizes the communal nature of salvation, the centrality of the Eucharist, and the unwavering dependence of the Church on its head, Christ. It calls us to a deeper understanding of our identity as members of Christ's body, living in and through his love.

The Bible: A Vital Treasure for Catholics

The Bible. It's the most popular book in the history of the world, a cornerstone of Western civilization, and a vital treasure for Jesus's Catholic Church. Yet, many Catholics find themselves surprisingly unfamiliar with its depths. This needs to change.

Too often, our experience of the Bible is limited to the Sunday Mass readings. While these are essential, they offer only glimpses into the vast tapestry of God's plan. Homilies, while well-intentioned, often lack the in-depth biblical explanations we crave, leaving us without a clear understanding of the context, authorship, and application of the scriptures to our daily lives. We need to understand:

·        Who wrote the text?

·        What was their intention?

·        How does this passage connect to the bigger picture of salvation history?

·        What does it mean for my life today?

Why Bible Knowledge Matters

This lack of familiarity leaves Catholics vulnerable. Other Christian denominations often emphasize personal Scripture study, and their members may have a greater knowledge of the Bible, even if their interpretations differ. This can be a challenge for Catholics who encounter well-meaning but misinformed individuals who cherry-pick verses to support their own agendas. Without a solid foundation in Scripture, Catholics may struggle to respond effectively.

Addressing the Misconceptions

Sadly, anti-Catholic rhetoric often includes false claims about the Church's relationship with the Bible. Accusations like "The Catholic Church hates the Bible," "It chained it up," or "It added false books" are simply untrue. The truth is quite the opposite.

The Catholic Church: The Guardian of Scripture

The Catholic Church played a crucial role in the formation and preservation of the Bible as we know it. For centuries, the Church carefully discerned the authentic books of Scripture from numerous other texts circulating at the time. It was the Church that preserved and copied these sacred texts, ensuring their survival through history. The very existence of the Bible today is deeply intertwined with the Catholic Church's dedication to God's Word.

Rediscovering the Bible: A Call to Action

To combat misinformation and deepen our faith, it's vital for Catholics to engage more deeply with the Bible. A great starting point is Jimmy Akin's book, The Bible Is a Catholic Book. It sheds light on the fascinating history of the Bible and the Church's role in it, debunking common misconceptions and providing valuable insights.

A Daily Practice: 15 Minutes with God's Word

Beyond reading resources like Akin's book, a simple yet powerful practice for every Catholic is to dedicate at least 15 minutes each day to reading and praying with the Bible. This isn't just about intellectual understanding; it's about encountering God's living Word and allowing it to transform our hearts.

Here are some tips for your 15-minute Bible time:

·         Find a quiet place: Minimize distractions and create a space where you can focus.

·         Pray for guidance: Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate your understanding.

·         Choose a book or passage: Start with the Gospels or a book that speaks to you.

·         Read slowly and reflect: Don't rush. Consider the meaning of the words and how they apply to your life.

·         Talk to God about what you've read: Prayer is a conversation with God. Share your thoughts and feelings.

By making Bible reading and prayer a daily habit, we can deepen our relationship with God, strengthen our faith, and equip ourselves to understand and defend the truth of the Catholic Church. The Bible is not just a book; it's a lifeline to God's love and a vital treasure for every Catholic.

 

Drawing Closer to Jesus: Lessons from Pope Benedict XVI

Pope Benedict XVI, through his writings and teachings, offered profound insights into the person of Jesus Christ and how we can cultivate a deeper relationship with Him. His trilogy of books, "Jesus of Nazareth," along with other published works, reveal a man deeply in love with Christ, whose life and writings can serve as a roadmap for our own spiritual growth.

A Personal Encounter with Jesus

Benedict's works emphasize the importance of a personal encounter with Jesus. He didn't just see Jesus as a historical figure or a theological concept, but as a living person with whom he had a deep, intimate relationship. This personal connection is evident in his writings, where he speaks of Jesus with warmth, reverence, and love.

We can model our spiritual life after Benedict by seeking our own personal encounter with Jesus. This can be done through prayer, reading the Gospels, and reflecting on His teachings. Like Benedict, we should strive to know Jesus not just intellectually, but also through the heart.

Jesus' Love and Sacrifice

Benedict's writings beautifully illustrate the depth of Jesus' love for us. He highlights Jesus' willingness to lay down His life for our salvation, demonstrating the ultimate act of love. This sacrifice is a testament to God's immense love for humanity, a love that Benedict encourages us to embrace and reciprocate.

We can follow Benedict's example by meditating on Jesus' sacrifice and allowing it to transform our hearts. By understanding the extent of His love, we can grow closer to Him and be inspired to love others as He loved us.

The Importance of Prayer

Benedict was a man of prayer, and he emphasized its importance in our relationship with Jesus. He saw prayer as a conversation with God, a way to open our hearts to His love and guidance. Through prayer, we can deepen our connection with Jesus and grow in our faith.

Following Benedict's example, we should make prayer an integral part of our lives. By communicating with Jesus regularly, we can strengthen our relationship with Him and experience His presence in our lives.

Living a Life of Love

Benedict's teachings emphasize the importance of living a life of love, just as Jesus did. He encourages us to love our neighbors, forgive those who wrong us, and show compassion to those in need. By living a life of love, we can reflect the love of Jesus to the world.

We can model our lives after Benedict by striving to live as Jesus taught us. This means showing love and kindness to everyone we encounter, even those who are difficult to love. By doing so, we can grow closer to Jesus and become instruments of His love in the world.

Conclusion

Pope Benedict XVI's life and writings offer a powerful example of how to cultivate a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. By seeking a personal encounter with Him, meditating on His love and sacrifice, prioritizing prayer, and living a life of love, we can draw closer to Jesus and experience the fullness of His love in our lives.

Heralds of the Gospel: Understanding the Ministry of Deacons

One of the most moving moments during the ordination Mass of a deacon is the moment he kneels before the bishop. The bishop, in a powerful gesture, places the Book of the Gospels in his hands, saying: “Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach.” This simple act encapsulates the profound responsibility entrusted to the deacon: to be a messenger, a herald, of Christ himself.

Deacons serve the Church through a threefold ministry: word, liturgy, and charity, always working in close communion with their bishop. While many are familiar with their liturgical roles and their dedication to charitable works, the ministry of the word, the deacon as "herald," deserves deeper reflection. How do deacons fulfill this vital role?

Mass Is Only The Beginning

While proclaiming the Gospel and, in some cases, preaching the homily at Mass is a significant part of a deacon's ministry of the word, it's not the whole story. Deacons are not cloistered away; they live in the world, often with families, secular jobs, and civic responsibilities. Their call to be heralds of the Gospel extends beyond the walls of the church and into their everyday lives. They are called to live and proclaim the Gospel in the midst of their families, workplaces, and communities. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) emphasizes the universal call to holiness, deacons, by their ordination, are especially equipped to live out this call and share it with others. Their lives become a living testament to the faith.

Heralds are Faithful Messengers

Deacons, like all individuals, have their own opinions and perspectives. However, in their role as heralds of the Gospel, they are called to be faithful messengers, not editors. They have promised obedience to Christ and their bishop, making them servants of the Gospel truth. When a deacon preaches or teaches, the faithful have a right to expect that his words reflect the teachings of the Church, rooted in Scripture and Tradition. As the CCC (86) states, the Magisterium, guided by the Holy Spirit, authentically interprets the Word of God, and deacons, in their teaching role, are to be in communion with this Magisterium. They are to transmit the deposit of faith, not their own interpretations.

Living In The World But Not Of The World

Being a herald of the Gospel is not always easy. Just as the prophets of old faced opposition, so too can deacons expect challenges and resistance when they faithfully proclaim the Gospel. They are often on the front lines of evangelization, calling people to conversion and a life centered on Christ. This can be particularly challenging in today's world, where religious liberty, the sanctity of life, and the traditional understanding of marriage are frequently under attack. Deacons, inspired by the example of Christ and empowered by their ordination, are called to be "signs of contradiction," boldly proclaiming the truth even when it is unpopular. They are called to echo the words of St. Paul in 2 Timothy 4:2, "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful teaching."

The rite of ordination beautifully captures the essence of the deacon's role. May all deacons, through their faithful proclamation of the Word, their service in the liturgy, and their dedication to charity, be shining examples of faith, conviction, and authentic Christian witness for us all. They are a gift to the Church, and their ministry is essential for the new evangelization.