We All Need to Take Some Time Off
Friends,
In the scriptures, we read how every once in a while, Jesus would take off by himself and “go into the desert” or walk up a mountain by himself to pray and just to recoup his human energy. Jesus was really human, and I believe that he got tired of preaching the good news and curing the sick. He needed to get away and pray and relax. … In the same way, we all need to take some time off and break our daily routine. Here in our diocese we have a marvelous retreat house, San Damiano, which has retreats and days of reflection for everyone. You might want to make a retreat. We list these in our bulletin from time to time. Try it.
This coming week, Fr. Hugo and I will be going to a convocation of priests of the diocese for five days. We do this every three years, as we pause and pray and reflect upon our ministry as Catholic priests. I am looking forward to these days away, just like Jesus had to get away from the crowds. Fr. Ray will handle all of our ministry while Fr. Hugo and I are gone. We will not leave you abandoned. Mary Asuncion can make all of the necessary decisions about everything else.
I would like to praise you for your warm and loving support of one another in our parish functions. St. John’s is a great parish, and we are blessed to have such a diverse and Christian community that gathers in prayer each week. God will surely bless your fidelity and your love.
Gratefully,
Fr. John Maxwell
