Beloved Family:
Oh, the importance of recognizing our connections! On at least two occasions in recent weeks, I have become aware of how connected we are as human beings. First, I learned that the young athlete from Olmsted Falls who died from injuries sustained at a lacrosse game is a best friend of a St. Mary parishioner’s grandson. Then, just yesterday, another parishioner asked for prayers for the family of the thirteen-year-old from the North Canton/Green area who died after falling off a parade vehicle on Memorial Day. The parishioner coached the boy’s mom in soccer. We are more connected than I believe we often realize. Even when we do not know personally, an individual who is suffering, Saint Paul’s words ring true: “If [one] part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, all the parts share its joy” (1 Corinthians 12:26).
In that same spirit, we share in the joy of all of our recent graduates, including the six young men and ladies who have just completed the Eighth Grade at St. Mary School. Their families have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to our school community over the years. We thank them for their dedication and we salute these young people who have served as excellent leaders in our school.
Currently, most dioceses of the United States observe the Solemnity of the Ascension on what otherwise would be the Seventh Sunday of Easter. The following is an excerpt from an article written by Joan Patten AO, entitled “Ascension of the Lord is Not Goodbye:”
Benedict XVI describes the Ascension as “not an absence but a new form of presence,” with Jesus, unbound by time and space, universally present through the Spirit (Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week). The Spirit’s outpouring at Pentecost equipped the first disciples and continues to strengthen us today to spread the Gospel.
Unlike a loved one departing from an airport, Jesus does not leave us behind. He promises, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Mt. 28:20). Just as the disciples went forth with joy and courage to proclaim the Gospel, we are reminded that we, too, are commissioned to spread the Good News because Jesus is with us. This assurance empowers us to participate in His mission by striving for holiness, frequent reception of the sacraments, acts of charity and trust in God’s grace.
The Eucharist, in particular, unites us with Christ’s sacrifice and presence, forming us as His witnesses. Acts of charity reflect the love of Christ and make Him present to others. Like the apostles, who proclaimed the Gospel with joy and courage, we are called to share the Good News through our words and actions. By embracing our mission, we live with hope, certain that Jesus, our eternal high priest, intercedes for us and remains present.
Although the Ascension of Our Lord into Heaven may seem like a departure, we are assured of His abiding presence. With confidence in His intercession, may we embrace our mission, proclaiming His Resurrection and Ascension, and trusting that He prepares a place for us in eternity.
(Orange County Catholic, May 27, 2025)
Let His Peace be with you,
Fr. Stephen
