St. John Neumann
Catholic Church

Lilburn, Georgia

 
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Solemnity of Corpus Christi

Here’s the thing... often times, ‘cause we are so busy, we miss out on the really important stuff.

Parents with young children, juggling your work and their school and the “after-school projects” that seem like work... juggling office politics and social networking all the while looking for a bit of time for romance with your spouse. Seems like you don’t have time to breathe. Then one evening, for some reason, you look at your eight-year old daughter and see the miracle that she is…learning, inquisitive, caring, a child of God, a blessing to you.

Often times, ‘cause we are so busy, we miss out on the really important stuff.


Do you realize how you and I hunger and thirst for love? We might keep up a strong appearance, a “proper” appearance, but humanity is starved for real love, starved for true affection, starved for a kindness that melts the isolation we feel.

Each Sunday, we hear of a man that loved completely. We hear of a man that reaches out beyond the grave to care for us and offer us what we need. Each Sunday, we hear that forgiveness and mercy are available to us, though it’s so hard to believe it. We know him by name, but because we are so busy, we miss out on the really important stuff... and the gift this man offers.

Our liturgical prayer is a beautiful experience of worship; but, if we are not attentive and prayerful, it can seem monotonous, routine... boring. Look again at how we worship. Look again at what (who) is proclaimed. Ponder anew, the great story of our own humanity that is proclaimed in the sacred scriptures: a humanity broken mightily by sin (mine and yours), a humanity redeemed mercifully by obedient love. Look again at what we are invited to accept... as a gift.

He breaks the Passover bread, and speaks of a new liberation. He shares the Passover cup, and proclaims an everlasting covenant, in love. Today is the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, and the whole Catholic world rejoices in the great Sacrament of His love... for in this gift from above... He is with us still, and the love that he offers takes away all fear.

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A few notes: (1) I’m in Toledo this week, visiting my best friend from seminary. I’ll be back home for next weekend’s Masses. (2) Please remember to complete the online survey that I have commissioned for us. Instructions regarding the survey are in today’s bulletin. I need to hear your advice & counsel, about how we are to prepare for years of growth in Gwinnett County. (3) I am grateful for all of you that represented SJN at the Eucharistic Congress. In the words of our patron, dearest God, give me holiness... give us holiness.

AMDG
 

Ministry Spotlight

Adult Faith Formation

Contact Deacon Greg Ollick, if you want to help with Adult Catholic education or you are interested in learning more about the faith. Call 770-923-6633 ext. 121 or by e-mail at greg.ollick@sjnlilburn.com.

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