August 27, 2021
Dear Friends,
As the summer goes on and the evenings begin to get darker earlier, I have been finishing my days watching movies. I recently began the process of working through all of the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies. By definition, we know that means ideally, I am spending a few nights per movie (especially when we get into the extended editions of the movies).
Last week, I started the first of the Hobbit trilogy. As the movie was progressing a few times we heard the same question either from Bilbo Baggins or other members of the party, “Why me?” or “Why the Hobbit?” In the movies, you see a better explanation to the question than is seen in the books. In fact, if you wander into the various Tolkien forums with that question, information abounds. None of the answers are greater than the interaction between Gandalf and Galadriel when she asks, “Why the Halfling?”
“I don't know. Saruman believes that it is only great power that can hold evil in check. But that is not what I have found. I've found it is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay. Simple acts of kindness and love. Why Bilbo Baggins? Perhaps it is because I am afraid, and he gives me courage.”
The answer, I feel, is something for all of us to continue to remember and hold onto. It is the small actions, the small deeds, that at times make a huge difference. For myself, I do not see anything as a small deed or action, even if they are. It is our everyday interactions that, at times, change the world. It is why we need to answer the call that has been given to us in our daily lives - to live that Gospel, to evangelize, to spread the Good News, which is our faith. We never know how much we do can help those who are battling something greater.
I want to challenge you to give some thought about what you might be able to do to make a change in the world. If you have time available, consider teaching Faith Formation or helping at a food pantry (among other things that can be done). Take time to use the time and talent the Lord has given you to change the world. Inspire someone, help someone, through simple acts of kindness and love.
Lastly, I remind you that our Second Collection this weekend is to support the Missionaries of the Poor Haiti Education fund. As mentioned at masses last weekend, the collection (especially now) is needed to assist those in Haiti who are dealing with the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. While the area where the Missionaries of the Poor are was not greatly affected, they are sending out all they can from their pantries to help those who are in need right now. Plus this week they had an additional expense of needing to replace a water pump on their premise. Any support of this collection would be greatly appreciated.
God Bless,
Fr. Brian