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SERVICEby Gerard Scheuermann |
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| The call to Christian service is a year-round affair. How
does a parish keep up the energy and focus during the lazy days of spring
and summer? Try apprenticing weeks and focus days.
Apprenticing allows parishioners to experience areas of service that may be unknown to them. By inviting those involved to partner with a community member from a different service ministry, each can experience a new mode of service and become closer as community in the process. Suggest that the social justice people invite liturgical ministers to join them in serving and advocating for the poor. Talk to hospital ministers about getting the youth involved in visiting. Athletes call this “cross training.” Focus days can get everyone involved in a particular service, focusing the full energy and gifts of the community. You can look to the Summer Ordinary Time readings for inspiration. Get the parish leaders brainstorming and let the Spirit move. It may be a neighborhood clean-up or fund-raiser for a needy family. Organize a clothing and food drive for the St. Vincent de Paul Society or convert idle space to a safe and attractive play area. Whatever the focus, bring the energy of the parish to bear on service. Be sure to pray and process the experience. Let the gifts of many build up God’s reign. |
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