Week 350

Positive post Sunday, November 12, 2023- Week 350.

Michele and I just returned from visiting 2 of our girls and their families in Eagle, Idaho once again this past week. Words can’t express how proud we are of all of them, but as the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words”, or, “a video is priceless”. See about 10,000 words and a priceless video attached.

When visiting our children in Eagle, which is always a blessed experience itself, we always go to church at Holy Apostles Catholic Church in Meridian. The beauty of the Catholic Mass is that it has the same structure no matter where you are in the world. That being said, each parish has its own unique culture and local traditions.

While visiting and attending Mass this week, Michele and I observed a few of the traditions at Holy Apostles.

Our first observation was how welcoming and friendly all the parishioners were, especially to those like us who were visiting from out of state. They made us feel like we were a part of their congregation and isn’t that the way it should be as we are all part of God’s congregation.

Our second observation was seeing all the young children come up and share their offerings in a basket placed at the front of the altar. It was very uplifting to see so many of God’s precious young disciples walk up full of energy to make their contributions. What a beautiful outward expression of the importance of tithing this parish is teaching their young children. A reminder for us all to teach our young children that our donations of time, talent and treasure are critical for the health of our churches.

And finally, as Eucharistic Ministers, we are always looking for opportunities to bring new ideas to our home parish. We noticed how well organized and coordinated the Eucharistic Ministers were at this very large and full church. We were particularly pleased to see all Eucharistic Ministers wearing vibrant crosses prominently displayed as they served. A practice Michele and I would like to see at our home parish.

One other Godly highlight during our visit was meeting with my brother in faith, Jay McCalll. I’m so blessed that our Lord has reconnected us in His name. I’m humbled, and so excited to see how the Lord guides us on our new journey to connect youth and seniors in a meaningful and artful way. Stay tuned to learn more about our effort to launch Bridge of Grace.

In what ways are you blessed with Faith and Family (Fitness was replaced with rehab for this trip)?

What traditions have you observed at other churches that you would like to see at your home church?