Growing this Summer!
Every morning the fervent chirping of birds reminds me it’s here. The lightening steps on the daily commute, the speed at which I can leave the house in the morning without reaching for the cumbersome heavy coat and boots. And if there was any question- the long list of birds my Merlin app (a daily ritual – just because I like to know who I keep company with on my walks) well beyond the usual suspects -Cardinals, American Robin, Downy Woodpecker has extended to the Red-breasted Nuthatch, the Northern Yellow Warbler, Brown-headed Cowbird, Belted Kingfisher. All evidence points to a reality we instinctively know in our bones – Summer has arrived!
Saint Alphonsus Liguori, founder of the Congregation of the Holy Redeemer, reminds us that each new season provides a moment of pause and introspection – to reflect on our life, on our own new season. Summer provides an opportunity to think about who we are, whose we are and the path we are on. With the lengthening of days, and the slightly more relaxed pace of life, we are given the opportunity to turn again towards God.
Where am I going? How will I get there? Am I following God’s call?
As Catholics we are reminded every Mass of what we are ultimately called to be: Saints. Every Eucharistic liturgy we remember the Communion of Saints gathered around the Eucharistic table. This includes us – Saints in the making! Each of us. All of us. At least that is the long-term goal.
“All sanctity consists in the love of God, and the love of God consists in doing God’s will.” Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Conformity to the Will of God
And how do we know what is God’s will?
We are invited to reflection, prayer, and community to help us discern God’s call in our lives.
My own reflection and prayer is supported by my immersion in creation. Noticing the ways plants, insects and wildlife interact often provides insight for me on my own journey. For example, stumbling upon an abandoned nut on the ground reminds me that sometimes I am like that squirrel who forgets where he has laid his treasure that can provide nourishment for months ahead. Where do I find my strength and grounding when things feel bleak? Or, as an indigenous elder pointed out to me in Northern Saskatchewan, isn’t it interesting that stinging nettles in the wild, that really do sting if you brush up against them, often grow near dock (Rumex), a plant that’s leaves offer soothing properties if rub them on skin. Again, I find myself wondering about the people who have soothing properties for me. Those people who miraculously appear and help centre me just when I face difficulties in life. In late July, Ignite Ministry is planning an event that will provide the opportunity for encounter with God in creation to help reveal how God is calling each of us. Stay tuned to our sm pages for details and registration.
Books can be a great source of encouragement and insight as well. One great source of reflection is Leonard J. DeLorenzo’s A God Who Questions. This short book reflects on 20 questions God asks us in scripture and invites us to formulate our response. It helps us hear God’s call to us and guides us on the path towards Sainthood. The Real Presence: What Does It Mean and Why Does It Matter? written by his colleague, Tim O’Malley, is another notable resource for engaging more deeply in Catholic spiritually and deepening our weekly eucharistic experience as we are formed into the saints we long to be. Both books are available for less than $20 each. And no, I am not getting any sort of kickback for the suggestion.
Ignite Ministry wishes you a blessed summer, filled with opportunities for relaxation, re-creation and encounter as you take time to reflect on God’s call for you. In this newsletter you will find many other opportunities through prayer, in the wider Catholic Community and at our own gatherings at Holy Smoke BBQs to deepen your personal journey thereby strengthening our Catholic community. I look forward to seeing you this summer.
Annette Donovan Panchaud
Director, Ignite Ministry