Father Michael's Column

Pastor’s Column for March 30th, 2025

Do you remember the fears that COVID caused? All the lockdowns and social distance restrictions have been about 5 years ago now, and so it can seem like a distant memory...but at that time, those fears kept us from even participating in Mass. 

Unfortunately some people got in the habit of not coming to Church, and they still haven’t returned to a full practice of their faith. But although in many ways we’ve returned to a more normal life; in other ways we might wonder whether we’re ever going to have a “normal” life that isn’t ruled by fear. 

Worry and fear isn’t helped by today’s “news” coverage that is often more concerned with sensationalism and keeping viewership levels high rather than presenting a balanced viewpoint. The entertainment value of a story (usually filled with violence, sensationalism, fears, or threats) has become more important than presenting good news, or information that’s helpful to know. As a result, it’s easy to get over-saturated, or maybe even overwhelmed by the constant barrage of “news”, some good, some bad—but much of it not balanced reporting. Rather, it is often politically biased with little concern for actually being truthful. (In fact much of our society has swapped real truth for “subjective” truth, which should be seen for what it really is: lies.) 

The country seems more divided than ever over many issues, including the economy, international policies, crime, immigration, gender confusion, free speech, energy, government actions, and a 36 trillion dollar debt. Worrying about any of these things, which are all great fodder for the “news” media, can keep you up at night. 

As Christians—individually and as families—we would do well to remind each other that while the world may change moment-to-moment, we are loved by an unchanging and all-powerful God. A little child who knows he or she is loved by a smiling and knowing parent can rest peacefully cradled in protective arms, even when a storm rages. In the same way, as trusting children of a loving God, we can be peaceful despite turmoil and uncertainties that surround us.

While the barrage of changing news, sometimes hopeful, sometimes bad, may overwhelm others, WE know the real news, the unchanging Good News, that Jesus has died and is risen. In our baptisms we began the journey of dying and rising with Jesus that culminates in dying to this world, and rising to eternal life. As faithful disciples, when we remember that we are destined to eternal life, it does tend to put things in perspective! Our hopes and dreams are not confined to this world only. If that were so, as St. Paul says, we would be the most pitiable of men:

“If Christ was not raised, your faith is worthless. If our hopes in Christ are limited to this life only, we are the most pitiable of men. But as it is, Christ is now raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Cor 15:17,19)

Still, when demands and uncertainties surround us, it can be a challenge to maintain perspective. That’s true for me as a pastor as I’m sure it’s true for you—whether you are a parent trying to keep your sanity while juggling kids’ schedules and maybe facing income insecurities—or whether you are an elderly person feeling lonely and wondering what will happen if you get sick. 

Of course the “pat” answer might be to “pray more”. While that’s undoubtedly true, I find that when I’ve got a whirl of thoughts and ideas and worries running through my head, it’s kind of hard to stay focused, let alone peaceful, while trying to pray! 

If I can offer a few suggestions to you (and reminding myself about them at the same time). Start with limiting the amount of time you spend listening to ALL the latest and greatest “news”. Some is good, but too much of what passes for news just messes with your brain! Also some scientists tell us that we need to stay away from any “blue light” sources such as from TVs, computers, or smartphones for at least two hours before going to bed: they interfere with good sleep. Also, try some “centering” prayer or similar quieting activities before getting into your regular prayer time with the Lord. Dimming the lights, lighting a candle, or deep and slow breathing are all suggestions that some people find helpful. 



The most important suggestion, however, is that you actually TAKE THE TIME to pray! I know. I know....  When you are pressured, and the lack of enough time to fulfill the demands placed on you seems itself to be at the core of the problem, finding time for prayer might be the last thing on your mind. If that’s true for you— it’s evidence that you really need it! The time you take for prayer will put the other demands in better perspective, help you prioritize, and help you realize that you are only called to do what God asks of you, but no more. If you try to do more, you are on your own, and you will probably get good and frustrated—and angry! And then you will tend to inflict that anger on others, which will isolate us a lot more effectively than any COVID restrictions (of unhappy memory) ever could have. 

In Jesus,

Fr. Michael

P.S. Another aid to keep perspective and find peace is to focus on what Lent is supposed to help us achieve: reconciliation with God, ourselves, and each other. For that, I especially recommend the Sacrament of Confession. We are approaching the end of Lent, so now is the time to reflect on the core issues that are keeping you from being all that God wants you to be. The Confession schedule for the end of Lent is in the Easter Card that will be mailed to you in another week or so. We will have extra priests available during Holy Week on Monday evening at 7 PM, and Wednesday at Noon, and at 7 PM. Plan ahead so your busy schedule doesn’t get in the way!