“Spiritual Growth”
Sometimes we make small changes in our lives that bring about major results. Take for instance, the cutting of my beard and moustache recently. I have not been without these facial features since 1969. Imagine my own surprise when I saw how different I looked! When we make personal changes, people will come up to us and remark how the changes affect us. Unless you share your spiritual growth with others, they can’t possibly know about your love for God, your faith strength, or your compassion for others. These strengths are not visible to the eye. They are shared by actions that you share with others.
When we look to God for spiritual growth, know it takes diligence in learning to pray and in conveying what is in our hearts. If you want to overcome an addiction to food, you have to learn to leave the snack food and junk food alone. You have to exercise the body and the mind to make positive changes. If you want to quit smoking, you have to avoid the temptations of smoking by staying away from others who do smoke until you have gained the spiritual growth to handle the temptation without fear of cheating.
Last month, several members of the parish ministries and employees attended the Black Catholic Congress, which was held in Buffalo, New York. The Congress afforded us the opportunity to learn about issues affecting the Black community. Each member of the group attended sessions related to their field of expertise where they can come back and share with the community the means to bring about change. In coming is¬sues there will be a focus on the ways to improve our spiritual growth with God as our Leader.
On August 15th, we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. This day is a Holy Day of Obligation. The Feast of the Assumption celebrates both the happy departure of Mary from this life by her natural death and her assumption bodily into heaven.
Next month we will host our annual SPC Conference Day. Mark your calendars. Our theme will be “Made In the Image and Likeness of Christ”. We are all God’s children. This event will be a great source of information to learn about spiritual growth and commitment to God, as we are His disciples made in His image. When you look at me, you should see God in me. My actions should reflect my love for God. When I look at you, I should see God in you. Your actions should reflect your love for God. Spiritual growth cannot take place if a conscience effort to make change is not adhered to. God should be reflected in our daily work, our daily word, and our daily prayers. Just try to make your gumbo without shrimp or crabs, people will notice. Try to make changes without God, people will notice.
Rev. Michael P. Jacques, SSE, VF
Pastor
