Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)
January 16, 2022
“To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” (1 Cor 12:7)
St. Paul’s reflection on the diversity of spiritual gifts is a fitting focus as we begin a New Year and a new cycle of Ordinary Time. Each of us is blessed with gifts of the Spirit given for the sake of the common good. In other words, our gifts are meant to be shared for the upbuilding of our communities.
As pastoral musicians and liturgical ministers, we are blessed with special gifts that can enhance the worship and prayer life of our local churches. Do we view our talents as manifestations of the Spirit? Do we nurture and encourage the talents of others—especially the young—for the sake of the faith-life of the entire community? Does the exercise of our own gifts respect and encourage the diverse gifts of others as well?
Prayer
God of new beginnings,
we ask you to give us the grace
to use our gifts for the common good.
May we be generous with our own time and talents
and strive to support and encourage
the flourishing of the gifts of others.
Amen.
Judith M. Kubicki, CSSF, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Theology, Emerita
Fordham University
New York