The temperature has broken some. Our high schools and colleges have played a football game or three. The malls are selling sweaters. And, we're two weeks past Labor Day. So, I'm guessing that this is "the fall". Actually, I should know that, as the SJN Fall Festival is next Friday and Saturday (25 & 26 September). I urge EVERYONE to come out for these two days of fun.
How does a parish full of busy people put on an incredible two days of fun, like our Fall Festival, when such an undertaking requires so much work from so many? The answer is simple but full of meaning: the gift of their time and their talents.
When I go on vacation with my priest buddies, I am usually the designated dish washer. Though I enjoy the meals, I've never been any good in cooking the meals (and all agree!). So, my part is to wash dishes. The other guys do the cooking. It's the same in our parish family. We share the talents we have been given.
The temperature has broken some. Our high schools and colleges have played a football game or three. The malls are selling sweaters. And, we're two weeks past Labor Day. So, I'm guessing that this is "the fall". Actually, I should know that, as the SJN Fall Festival is next Friday and Saturday (25 & 26 September). I urge EVERYONE to come out for these two days of fun.
How does a parish full of busy people put on an incredible two days of fun, like our Fall Festival, when such an undertaking requires so much work from so many? The answer is simple but full of meaning: the gift of their time and their talents.
When I go on vacation with my priest buddies, I am usually the designated dish washer. Though I enjoy the meals, I've never been any good in cooking the meals (and all agree!). So, my part is to wash dishes. The other guys do the cooking. It's the same in our parish family. We share the talents we have been given.
There is so much going on at SJN; and more importantly, there is so much to do. What each has to do is to decide, that we will follow the Way of the Lord, and give ourselves to the work of the Lord... in the gifts of our time and our talents.
Our Bishops remind us that stewardship is not simply making donations (though they are needed). Stewardship is not simply taking care of our buildings and grounds (though this too is needed). Stewardship is a spirituality... a way of living authentic human life. This way of life has four foundational elements:
- Receiving the gifts of God with gratitude
- Cultivating these gifts responsibly
- Sharing these gifts lovingly, in justice, with others
- Standing before the Lord in a spirit of accountability, how we have used the gifts given
Last week, I asked you (us) to ponder the gift of time, the gift of life; and I asked how do you "spend" your life (your time)? This week, I ask all of us to ponder the gifts we have... those talents we possess. Using my personal example above: anyone can wash dishes, but the Lord has offered me a personality that does not mind a "behind the scenes" role. So, I wash dishes... and love it. It's my "behind the scenes" gift to my friends. At other times, I need to be out front, for I have been given a few "out front, in the spotlight" talents. I would guess that there are probably a hundred people working to put on our Fall Festival. Some are organizers. Some have "out front" talents. Others have "behind the scenes" talents. Some are "supporters". But ALL are growing in the joy of the Lord because they are good stewards, no matter what their talents. They are sharing their talents with others, in obedience to the Lord Jesus.
Look at those four foundational points to the life-style, the spirituality of stewardship (above). Doesn't that describe a disciple of the Lord Jesus... who is THE gift for humanity? Now, look in the mirror, and see yourself as the Lord sees you... and all the talents you have been given... to share. Have you shared yourself? Have you offered your talents? On the 26th and 27th of September, in Lind Hall, leaders of the many ministries of SJN will be waiting to meet you. These leaders coordinate the pastoral life at SJN. They have given of their time and their talents. They will want to hear from you. Join in the dynamic, gospel life of our parish. Come to our Time & Talents Ministry Fair, after the Masses on 26 and 27 September, and ask the leaders of our ministries... how may I assist you, with the talents I have been given. We are most ourselves when we are giving ourselves to others. It's how we are made... to love.
AMDG
Msgr. David Talley
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The vision of SJN Mom’s Circle is to be a source of spiritual and emotional nourishment for mothers, grandmothers, and any women involved in the care of children. Through this ministry we hope to create a place where supportive friendships are formed and women are uplifted. Most importantly we seek to bring all women to a personal knowledge and experience of God’s love as given to us through His Son Jesus Christ. We seek to accomplish this by having formal meetings from Sept-May. The meeting will be on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 10-12 AM. The set up of the meeting will generally consist of light snack and fellowship (10-11), topic of the month presentation and or guest speaker followed by group discussion (11-12) Nursery will be provided. New members are always welcome! For more information please contact: Mary del Mazo - 678-471-1900 or