I always enjoy taking a boat ride with some of the parishioners. One of the fun things is that when they get to a point on the river or the ocean, they say, "Let's drop anchor here." I get a kick out of that old clunk of steel being tossed into the water. 

         In ancient times the anchor was a symbol of safety and hope. I am told that there are places in the catacombs where the symbol of the anchor is connected to the cross. It signified how the ancient Christians were rooted in their faith and how they held on to their values.

         In today's readings we get the image of the "anchor" of hope when St. Paul says,"...I am on trial for hope in the resurrection of the dead..." (Acts 23: 6)  St. Paul tells all who are listening that what is a sure sign of hope for us in this world is that we will one day be united with Christ in the resurrection. 

         Next time you are at a marina or watching one of those rather large U.S. Navy Ships come into port, take a  look at the anchor being lowered into the water. The ship or boat is being anchored to a place of safety. Let us anchor ourselves to our Church and hope in better things to come. 

Anchors away......Fr. Pat