Inside ML

How and in what ways is Christ present to us? Author Michael G. Witczak, in his article “The Manifold Presence of Christ,” explores the mystery of Christ’s presence. He finds that church documents reveal that “Christ is even more present to us than we used to think and in more ways, all of them real.” In the recent past, an understanding of Christ’s presence focused almost solely on the Eucharist. There is a rich treasure of church teaching worth exploring; take a look at what he has found.

Teachers are not worship police, says Timothy Cronin. Liturgies celebrated in high school communities have special considerations; the need for teachers, along with administrators and students, to worship is one of them. Find practical advice for planning liturgies in a school setting in his article, “Lemons to Lemonade: Worship in Catholic High School” on page 10.

There is an increased awareness of endangered species in our natural world. Paige Byrne Shortal argues on page 12 that the Eucharist itself is endangered in the Catholic Church. The shortage of priests seems to require that some parishes substitute a communion service for a celebration of Eucharist. What are the long-term implications of such a practice? What message does this communicate? Do Catholics really value the sacraments?

A new department joins ML’s regular lineup: Welcome Table. It will have various contributors rather than a single author. Over the next few months, look at liturgy through the eyes of others. Discover the unique gifts and insights people bring to the table of the Lord, the table at which all are welcome.

August is often a quiet month in parishes and schools, before the beginning of fall programs and classes. August is also the month ML focuses on technology and software. Look at ML’s annual “Church Software Guide” on page 28 for tools to help you simplify your church management tasks, add to your biblical study resources, assist with liturgy planning, or even teach you Arabic. You may also have the time this month to explore some internet sites. Take a look the 24 sites ML found. You might want to “bookmark” a few for future use.

Finally, the annual Planning Checklist on page 18 provides an overview of the coming year, September through August. If you are interested in the return of the monthly Planning Checklist, please let ML know by writing the editor or by e-mailing mleditor@rpinet.com. ML

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