Some Return to School, but All Are Called to Evangelize

Summary of a Fr. Gerry Creedon homily from August 27, 2006

"You have the words of eternal life." John 6:68

THIS COMING WEEK, FAMILIES prepare their children to go back to school. St Charles school and religious education programs are also getting ready for a new year.

Last week I joined the faculty of our school for a day of spiritual preparation. I was struck by the diversity of the teachers and the children. Our students reflect different ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds.

When we celebrate the rite of reconciliation in the school, children of other affiliations are invited to participate in a blessing. Once as I was listening to students repeat the introduction, "Bless me father for I have sinned." I was surprised by a tall eighth grader who began, "Forgive me, Father, I am a Protestant." I quickly assured him, "That is no sin," and offered him a blessing. He shrugged his shoulders, "I needed that; I am playing basketball with the Eagles this evening!" In our diversity we still enjoy the feeling of family.

One of our teachers talked about the uniqueness of St. Charles School. He may have had a bad morning and hit every red light on his way, but the hugs he received from his students as he entered the school yard enveloped him in an atmosphere of warmth and love.

Whether we are engaged in formal education or catechetical programs or not we are all called to evangelize.

I visited our RCIA and Inquiry programs this week where I found dozens of people seeking faith through St Charles parish. I believe the vibrancy and vitality of St Charles serves as a magnet for those who search. Each of us in formal and informal ways witness to faith and love by the way we build community.

The Great Amen that concludes the Eucharistic Prayer provides us a way of responding to God's Word and God's call. Let us give our assent, our so be it our amen with enthusiastic hearts.