Inside ML

I am anticipating the new millennium for many reasons, not the least of which is everyone will stop talking about it. More than that, however, I am anticipating the new ways in which we will minister as a church. One undeniable fact is that the church will become more multicultural. This will demand new responses from church leaders, and it will revitalize our efforts to proclaim the Gospel in the world. We will have so many different voices and faces and cultures with which to spread the good news that the new millennium will surely be an exciting time for evangelization. Juan Sosa, director of the worship office for the Archdiocese of Miami, calls this phenomenon the “Catholic mosaic.” In ML’s interview with him (page 9 in the printed edition of ML), Sosa describes the things happening in south Florida that can become models for the rest of the U.S. church as we explore ways to tap into the riches of the many traditions in our church. William Graham points out another encouraging change. In his article (page 6), he makes the point that those who will be doing paid, ecclesial ministry in the church are not the “Barry Fitzgerald” priests of the previous age. What has already become apparent is that the face of ministry has changed — and it is mostly feminine. This “new” face helps us all understand that ministry is first of all rooted in baptism. Recovering that fundamental truth will be another element that makes the new millennium an exciting time for evangelization.

What excites you about the coming millennium? What hopes do you have? What challenges do you see? Will the new age bring new energy for your work? Do you have fears about what the future holds? Log on to the ML discussion boards, and share your thoughts on what’s next in your ministry and in the church.

Southwest Liturgical Conference

Juan Sosa will be one of the featured keynote speakers at the annual study week sponsored by the Southwest Liturgical Conference. This year’s study week will be held in Houston on Jan. 19–22. ML will be there, too. For details, contact the Office for Worship at (713) 741-8760, or send e-mail to swlc@diocese-gal-hou.org.

ML

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