October 25, 1998

30^th Sunday in Ordinary Time Luke 18:9-14

Though today’s selection continues last week’s reflections on prayer, Luke now turns to an example of how the all too human attitude of self-importance can be an obstacle to growth in the spiritual life. The Pharisee, in his sincere gratitude for being able to perform his religious duties, demonstrates how he enjoys being able to praise God. He is glad he does not have to engage in dishonest activities that would make keep him from these duties. The tax collector, aware of his unworthiness, throws himself on God’s mercy. The closing line warns of the dangers of thinking that our religious practices, even when good in themselves, do not excuse us from recognizing the need for God’s mercy.

read the padre
read the padre
Keep in touch...
Locally, and Globally! 

Check out
Andrew M. Greeley's Columns for the
Chicago SunTimes'
Daily Southtown.
_

Once upon a time, not so very long ago, there was a Mrs. Church in Our Lady of Mercy Parish. Mrs. Church seemed to do everything and be everywhere. At one time or the other, and often simultaneously, she was head of the Altar Society, a Eucharistic Minister, Lunch Mother, Playground Guard, President of the Parish Council, Minister of Care, Representative to the Diocesan Council and close friend and confidant of the pastor. Mrs. Church’s neighbor was a divorced mother of three who worked full time and always declined Mrs. Church’s invitations to participate in parish activities.
She said she just didn’t have the time. After noticing that her neighbor appeared to be dating, Mrs. Church mentioned, in confidence, to the Pastor that though she knew the Church allowed divorced and unremarried Catholics to participate in the Eucharist, she wondered if it was a good example to young people to included those who were in a public relationship. Later the pastor announced that in honor of the 50^th anniversary of the Parish, the Parish Council had established an annual Our Lady of Mercy award to be given to a person who demonstrated qualities of the parish patroness. Everyone, including Mrs. Church herself, expected her to be the first recipient. A special review committee was established to consider those who were nominated for the award. Imagine Mrs. Church’s surprise when her neighbor was chosen for the honor for her work in establishing a community program for battered woman and children. Getting this program off the ground had been the reason she hadn’t time for Mrs. Church’s programs.