By Fr. John Sheridan
These are extraordinary days for us- a new Archbishop, and now a new Pope- an American like us, (a Peruvian, too) yet no longer. Pope Leo is a missionary Augustinian, he belonged to the Church and to Christ long before that electrifying day when we were shocked and delighted with his election.
The world gasped in surprise and rejoiced with us, and though we give thanks these days, we also understand that the Pontiff’s extraordinary concerns transcend borders, to the core of the faith we share with over a billion people who speak every language, embrace every tradition and way of life, and the way we affect our world calls us all to sober reflection and earnest dedication to live out our baptisms and confirmations as committed Christians and Catholics, as members of the Body of Christ.
This past weekend in Charlestown, we celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation of 25 young people, fed hundreds of families at Harvest on Vine, celebrated Masses as we rejoiced in the Resurrection of our Lord and awaited the glorious days of Ascension and Pentecost, honored our Blessed Mother in rosary and song, and brought 5 new babies into the loving embrace of the Church through baptism. Our missionary work goes on.
There is much work ahead- for our new Holy Father- peace and justice issues to address, prayers to offer, teachings to share and so much more, all in that missionary spirit that he has shown throughout his life, but it’s our call, too. Inspired by the example of Francis, may our prayers support him, our work give honor to God, and our actions honor Christ, to Him be the glory always. Please pray for Pope Leo- one of our own, and now one for the world, for the Church.
Fr. John Sheridan, pastor of the Charlestown Catholic Collaborative.