Do you share your traditional gifts through faith in Christ with those around you?

My dear Friends in Christ,

In this Gospel passage, Jesus is being questioned by the Pharisees about why His disciples are not practicing the tradition of the elders, which is to cleanse themselves before their meals. Why don’t they wash their hands? This intense confrontation is about more than just a concern for proper hygiene. For the Pharisees, this is about tradition, faithfulness, respect and honor. And we’re not just talking about running hands under water with soap. This ritual washing was a whole routine that was about spiritual and ceremonial cleanliness. There’s some value in respecting and appreciating the rituals and traditions of the community elders. But when it became something used to block “outsiders” and to be a measuring stick for faithfulness and loyalty to God, Jesus called them out with some pretty harsh language. It’s not the washing hands that determines your faithfulness, Jesus says. It’s what’s in your heart. The Pharisees were using this tradition to point out deficiencies in others. What are the traditions and rituals that are meaningful to you as you reflect on God’s participation in your life? Do you use these to exclude others? How is God inviting you to share your traditional gifts through faith in Christ with those around you?

A Parish Ministry Fair is being planned for late September or early October and will be held in the hallway after all weekend Masses. All parish ministries are represented by members of each ministry to answer your questions. We need help in all ministries. Will you consider visiting the fair and become a faith-filled participant in your parish of Corpus Christi? More details to follow.

May God bless you all,

Father John