What Weather They Shall Have is not Ours to Rule

As you all have learned by now I am a big fan of J.R.R. Tolkien and “The Lord of the Rings”, I often remember a quote that I have on my bathroom mirror from Gandalf; “It is not our part to master all the tides of the world, but to do what is in us for the succour of those years wherein we are set, uprooting the evil in the fields that we know, so that those who live after may have clean earth to till. What weather they shall have is not ours to rule.” I love this quote because it is a reminder that in my decision making, I must consider not what is most comfortable for me (or others) but instead what we leave those who come after us. Future parishioners, priests, pastors, and future generations in general.

We can either be satisfied with what we have always had or following Gandalf’s encouragement we can “uproot the evil in the fields we know.” Too often we are ready to pull weeds from our neighbors’ garden but neglect the thistles and brambles within our own backyard. I can too often focus on the ills of the Church or those around me but neglect my own heart. “First, remove the beam from your own eye, that you may remove the splinter from your brother’s eye.” By addressing our own issues, we are better able to transform those around us.

When a brother priest takes a step forward, I have seen brother priests respond in three different ways: First, become jealous and resentful towards him. Casting criticism and discouragement his way. Second, compare oneself to that priest. “He is so much better than me”, which leads to discouragement. Third, be excited for him and ask oneself “how can I take a step forward.” When we rejoice in another’s good, note that we are inspired by them. We do not measure ourselves by the same standard, but we should be inspired to do better ourselves. This in turn leads to us making changes that benefit not just ourselves but those around us and those that will come after us.

That is what we are looking to build as St. Joseph, Pillar of Families. The new reality is hard to envision but if we do not look towards a future in which we will have fewer pastor-ready priests this will lead to parishes becoming directionless and without vision. But as we focus on building the larger reality of St. Joseph, Pillar of Families we can prepare better to focus a unified vision that respects the past and looks towards future generations that benefit from our sacrifices and growth and in holiness.

As we continue through Lent remember to get to confession early in the season as this makes the lead up to Easter more manageable for the priests and others. Please consult the bulletin to find opportunities to aid you in your Lenten Journey. I would also encourage you to make every effort to unite your penances to our Lord’s Cross for the salvation of souls.

Thank you to so many supportive parishioners. I am humbled and appreciative beyond words for your goodness to me and those around you. Your words of encouragement and hope are of help to me often throughout my daily tasks. Thank you!

Peace in Christ, 
Fr. Jarred Kohn