FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
My Dear Parishioners
When reading Scripture (or any other written work) it is important to identify the genre of the writing so to gain greater insight into what the author is trying to convey. As we celebrate today’s solemnity of All Saints, the first reading from the book of Revelation is a type of apocalyptic literature. This type of writing is less about a chronological narrative than it is about comforting people who are being persecuted and urging these people to remain faithful to their covenant with God. In doing so, they will be counted among His chosen at the end of time.
While we might not be suffering persecution in the same way as the early churches of Asia Minor, as the book of Revelation was originally directed, we still encounter challenges as we strive to remain close to God. We experience dryness in prayer. We become frustrated with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We distract ourselves with food, money or false intimacy. Even as 21st century Roman Catholics, we struggle to remain faithful to God.
Fortunately for us we have saints, holy men & women who are our models of faith. They have lived, loved, and struggled just like us and we can find inspiration & hope from their examples. They lived the Beatitudes Jesus speaks of in today’s gospel during their lives on earth and now rejoice with gladness, for their reward in heaven is great. As we also set our sights on heaven, we ask for their intercessions & prayers. All holy men & women pray for us!
Peace,
Fr. Monteleone
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