How Can I Help?

One of the things that would often be impressed upon me while growing up was the importance of saying “thank you” and as much as possible offer to help when possible. Such as when I was running to the store and saw someone carrying too many bags or when I was over at someone’s house to help clear the table or do dishes. As we have continued through Beacons, people have been asking more and more, “how can I help?” So here are a few things I can think of right now:

Pray and Do Penance- obviously this is the most important thing and can be the most helpful. There are even some little booklets “The Mysteries of Light for the Beacons of Light” circling around. You can offer up a prayer or some suffering for the fruitful carrying out of the Beacons of Light.

> Volunteer- Even if you don’t want to help long term you can always reach out to our religious education staff or administration staff to ask how you can help. If you would like to help more consistently obviously, we would take that as well. (Proverbs 11:25)

> Get the Facts- There have been a number of half-truths that have been uttered and at times rumors have been rather far from the truth. I would encourage you to follow-up with a priest or staff member to get more accurate information. (1 Peter 3:15) We may send additional articles or videos to help you make sense of everything going on.

> Be Courageous- To stand up to one’s friends and family may be difficult and should always be done in love. This doesn’t mean speaking out at every opportunity, but it does mean that we can speak what we know when prompted by the Holy Spirit. (Deuteronomy 31:6, Ezra 10:4)

> Be Merciful- I have heard that some harsh words have been exchanged and have caused difficulties in relationships. I would encourage you to pray for those who have offended you and to work toward forgiving them. “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” (Luke 11:4)

So much support and love are appreciated, and I am more grateful than you could ever know. I am truly proud of your devotion to our Eucharistic Lord and the sacraments. For the desire you have to grow in your faith and develop in your vocation. Remember “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)

Thank you to those who agreed to be on the ballot, I am truly appreciative of their willingness to accept this task. I am grateful for their “yes”.

Peace in Christ,

Fr. Jarred Kohn