Why Catholic?  Bulletin Vignettes—Sacraments Sessions 7-12

 Why Catholic?

Session 7:    Confirmation a Sacrament of Initiation
Often we hear:  “Getting Confirmed” or “Making our Confirmation”.
The sacrament of Confirmation empowers us to respond with gospel values and action in all areas of our lives.   Those participating in the Why Catholic? faith groups have the opportunity to review the importance of faith in their lives ….just how the sacrament of Confirmation can assist them in their daily lives.   This session on Confirmation looks into the history of the sacrament, the graces of God and the gifts of the Holy Spirit.   God gives us the grace; God gives us the Spirit.  It is up to us to respond to God by our daily discipline and commitment.   If today you hear his voice, come, listen and share.   You are invited to a Why Catholic? faith group; come and discover what the Sacrament of Confirmation means to you.

Why Catholic?
Session 8:  Eucharist, a Sacrament of Initiation

The Eucharist is the source and summit of our lives as Catholic Christians!
We can never reflect enough on the Eucharist.  God loved us so much that He gave us Jesus who transformed simple bread and wine into his Body and Blood.  “Why Catholic?” faith groups will be discussing the Eucharist.   Do you celebrate Eucharist as an event that is real and present to you today and not just a memorial?   Think about it.  All those who share their faith in the Why Catholic? faith sessions will be discussing the Eucharist as the tremendous gift from God.   Our challenge is to be able to share this “good news” with others. What a mystery for us to know that when we receive the Body and Blood of Christ and say “Amen”, we mean, “Yes, Lord, I believe this is You for me for others?” Join a Why Catholic? faith group by contacting the Coordinator or the parish office.

Why Catholic?
Session 9: Penance and Reconciliation, a Sacrament of Healing

“Sharing Our Good News!  Why Catholic? faith sharing groups have much to contribute to each other.  What an opportunity to share the gift of your faith with others and to continue to deepen the knowledge of your own faith.  This week the topic is the Sacrament of Penance….or Reconciliation. Did you know there are different names used for the sacrament?  A great deal of misunderstanding prevails about this healing sacrament.  As human beings we are not perfect.  We are always in need of reconciliation with God and with one another. Conversion is an ongoing life-long growth to give ourselves totally to God. The path back to God through the Sacrament of Reconciliation helps to strengthen the intimacy with God and with one another. The sacramental healing that we receive gives us peace to know we are forgiven.   Our Catholic Faith offers us the opportunity to obtain forgiveness through the action of the priest, acting in the person of Christ when we go to confession.  Come this week to a Why Catholic? group and bring your experiences of healing to share them with others.   Contact the parish office today for more information.

Why Catholic?
Session 10:    Anointing of the Sick, a Sacrament of Healing

The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that illness can lead to anguish, self-absorption, sometimes even despair, and revolt against God…or it may be a time of grace.  Illness can become a way to conversion.  Illness is never easy; however, it is one we all confront more often than we care to.   Are we prepared to understand how illness is a sharing in the sufferings of Christ?  Who can receive the Sacrament?  Does one have to be near death to receive the Sacrament?  Why Catholic? faith groups are discussing this subject in detail.   Our Catholic Faith offers us so many wonderful sacraments that give us the grace to live out our lives in Christ with dignity.  The Sacrament of Healing….or Anointing of the Sick strengthens our faith, gives us hope, and gives us healing spiritually and sometimes physically. The priest, who lays his hands on the sick person, calls on the power of the Holy Spirit to come down upon the sick person, and then anoints the person with the Oil of the Sick.   Every Catholic should be prepared to share this good news with others.  Can you?   Attend one of the Why Catholic? faith groups…contact your parish office today.

Why Catholic?
Session 11:     Holy Orders, a Sacrament at the Service of Communion

Are you prepared to share your “Living the Good News” with others, especially those asking questions about your faith.  A very comfortable way to learn about your faith is to participate in a Why Catholic? faith group.  This week the session is on the Sacrament of Holy Orders.  The vocation of ordination to priesthood is indeed a great sacrament.  When a man is ordained, the presence of Jesus, as leader of the Church, is made visible in the midst of the community of believers.  A priest is called to a life of service to God and to the community of believers. There are three groups who receive the sacrament of Holy Orders; deacons, priests and bishops.  Attend one of the Why Catholic? faith sessions this week and learn all about this process of Holy Orders and how it affects your Catholic Christian life. Let us pray for more vocations to priesthood.   Contact the parish staff for more information on Why Catholic? group sessions.

Why Catholic?
Session 12:   Matrimony, a Sacrament at the Service of Communion

God is the author of marriage.   Marriage is a sacrament instituted by God.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that the sacrament of Matrimony is “the matrimonial covenant by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life…” (#1601).   Marriage, like the other sacraments, is about God’s covenant love and action in the lives of the married couple.   The sacramental elements of marriage offer the opportunity for a couple to be graced by God to help one another to attain holiness in their married life and in welcoming and educating their children. “The Christian home is the place where the children receive the first proclamation of the faith.  The family is rightfully called ‘the domestic church’ (CCC#1666).  Why Catholic? groups will discuss ways sacramental marriage can be strengthened against the many challenges that married couples and family life face today. Learn more about how the Sacrament of Matrimony strengthens the life of the Church as the Bride of Christ.  Attend a Why Catholic? faith group.  Contact your parish office for more information.

Why Catholic Vignettes for April 2008

WHY CATHOLIC?  Receiving the Fullness of the Redemption

Third Sunday of Easter   April   5/6   

As the People of God, we continue to rejoice in Christ’s Resurrection and the gift of new life. We have received the fullness of Christ’s redemptive power and grace.  Congratulations to all the catechumens and candidates who have come into the full communion of the Catholic Church.  Most “Why Catholic” faith groups have completed the first 6 sessions in Book 2. Some groups across the diocese have elected to continue on with the next 6 lessons.  Other groups will continue their lessons in the Fall session.  Some groups like to come together between sessions to keep the continuity of relationships alive.  Holding a prayer meeting, coming together for lunch, reflecting on Scripture together helps to keep your group bonded in faith! “Why Catholic?” is a positive way for lay people to keep the faith alive.

WHY CATHOLIC?  Children of God, Gathered in Christ

Fourth Sunday of Easter       April   12/13 

As disciples of Christ we pray: “Lord, help us to grasp the integrity and beauty of the truths of our faith and the transforming power of your grace.” What a great thought!  So many have expressed that being a part of Why Catholic? faith group  is a wonderful, delightful way to be a good disciple.  During this season of Easter, we continue to learn how the early Christian community shared their faith and how it brought hope to the community.  When have you needed encouragement and perseverance to live your faith?  Were you able to trust in God’s care for you and the promise of a better life to come during those times? Sharing our faith with family and friends helps us to be better and faithful disciples.

WHY CATHOLIC?  Chosen in Christ to Live in Truth and Deed

Fifth Sunday of Easter          April   19/20

The church never has too many leaders!  By our Baptism, you have been chosen to witness and to proclaim the Gospel.   If you love your Catholic faith and you have a strong desire to share what you believe.....consider becoming a leader for the next sessions of “Why Catholic?” your parish is holding.   No doubt you have heard the positive reaction from those who have belonged to a group.   It is a time to renew, recall and return to the early days of your formation as a Catholic Christian.   The church needs all of us to share our faith....as leaders and as members of a faith sharing group. You are the church.....the church is only as good as you.  How do we as the people of God live as communities of faith?  How can you continue to maintain a life in union with God?   “Why Catholic?” is where to begin.

WHY CATHOLIC?  Hope and Love Found in God

Sixth Sunday of Easter                   April   26/27

Let your prayer today be:  “Loving God and Father, help us to be people of prayer, committed to the person and message of Jesus your Son.”  Because of God’s great love for us, He sent His Son into the world that we might have life. As we continue to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, we place our trust in Him and await the day when His glory will give light to the entire world. To be committed to Jesus we must know Him and our Catholic Faith.  How do we come to know Jesus better to find our hope and love in Him.  How would you explain to others the reasons you continue to live a faith-filled life?  May we be ever faithful to our calling, confident that God’s love knows no bounds.

Year II: The Celebration of the Christian Mystery: Sacraments

“Why Catholic?” Vignettes for Feb 08

"Why Catholic?"; God Acts in the Liturgy—Session 1
Feb 2/3, 2008

“Why Catholic?” The Liturgy, the Work of God—Session 2
Feb 9/10, 2008

If someone asked you, “How has God blessed you? How would you respond? “Why Catholic?” certainly is one blessing. It is a way to explore your faith in depth with others searching for clarity as you are. This week group sessions continue to reveal how the Liturgy is the work of God and the blessings that come from this wonderful celebration when God’s faithful people come together. If someone asked you today how did participating in the Liturgy affect you, what would your answer be? If you have not been a part of “Why Catholic?”, call someone today on the pastoral staff and begin this week. “Why Catholic?” sessions help you find answers and build relationships. Come and See!

“Why Catholic?” Celebrating the Liturgy—Session 3
Feb 16/17, 2008

“Why Catholic?” is a wonderful instrument to help “know your faith” ! It is a way to join others seeking the truth. The last two sessions focused on the underlying meaning of the liturgy. This week group members will continue to explore the liturgy, its signs and symbols. These important signs and symbols express realities that are much deeper than what we may perceive. The reflection will be on: Who celebrates the Liturgy? Where and why is it celebrated in specific places? You will find excitement and a new way to share your faith with others after this session. If you are not part of “Why Catholic?” you are invited to begin today by contacting someone on your pastoral staff.

“Why Catholic?” God Acts through the Sacraments—Session 4
Feb 23/24. 2008

Often the question is asked: Why are the sacraments so important in the life of a Catholic? “Why Catholic?” faith sharing groups will address this subject this week. There is a great deal to explore to understand more fully the presence of Christ in our lives! Sharing your faith with friends is a way to increase your own faith and allow you to become a better evangelist. We are called to share our faith and to witness it by being the presence of Christ for others. The seven sacraments give birth and increase, healing and mission to our Christian life. Join a “Why Catholic?” group. It is never too late. Ask your pastor or your “Why Catholic?” for more information. Next week “Why Catholic?” groups will explore the Sacrament of Baptism.

“Why Catholic?” Baptism, a Sacrament of Initiation
March 1/2, 2008

The Sacraments of the Catholic Church are “powers that come forth” from the Body of Christ. Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are the three sacraments of initiation and “lay the foundations of every Christian life” (CCC 1212). You are invited to reflect on the times have you felt the special touch of God (baptismal grace) that has led you into deeper commitment to love God more and to serve others? Baptism is the sacrament of faith, but faith needs the community of believers. We believe in Jesus. We seek His Truth because He is the Way and the Life. “Why Catholic?” groups will discuss the sacrament of Baptism…the sacrament of faith at this week’s gathering. “Why Catholic?” is designed to assist all of us to become knowledgeable in our faith by sharing with each other. “Why Catholic?”

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
March 8/9, 2008

RCIA……no doubt most of you have heard about RCIA. What do you know about it? To begin with it is the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and a journey that just about every Catholic could embark upon again! There are catechumens and candidates who are preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. Do you know who they are in your parish? “Why Catholic?” will enlighten you about RCIA as a faith journey, the process which newly initiated Christians are fully accepted into the Catholic Faith. “Why Catholic?” group sessions will cover the entire journey and it offers a challenge today to create an environment to welcome newcomers. “Why Catholic?” is a faith journey process that helps us to become a better evangelist….that is spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Vignettes RE:  Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist: A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today
                         Work Shop in April 2008

WHY CATHOLIC?  Faith Formation Workshop:  “Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist: A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today”  

March 15/16—Christ’s Presence in the Assembly

What are your feelings when you attend Mass!  Are you aware of the mystery that is both visible and hidden?   You are the visible mystery.  Christ’s presence is in the assembly as the Body of Christ. This means that Christ’s presence is in YOU. This gift of His presence is a unique invitation for each of us to be aware of who we are, to what we are called to be, and how to respond while participating in the Liturgy.  It is a sacred event!  Why Catholic? faith sharing groups have shared these experiences.
Everyone is invited to attend the Workshop “Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist: A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today”.   This is an opportunity to share with others and discover more about yourself and the presence of God in your life.  For information contact your pastoral staff!  Don’t wait ....sign-up today.

WHY CATHOLIC?  Faith Formation Workshop:  “Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist: A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today”  

March 22/23 – Christ’s Presence in the Presider

Most Catholics are aware of Christ’s presence in the Presider at Mass.   Many mysteries happen during the celebration of a Liturgy.  The Presider, the priest, in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, allows us to participate in the Paschal Mystery of Christ.  Jesus’ Death and Resurrection become present to us through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus invites us to share in them through the Liturgy.  SIGN-UP for the workshop: “Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist:  A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today.”  Get the details from your pastoral staff.  This is an opportunity to learn how we can be one with the presider to make the liturgy more meaningful for everyone.  The Workshop will also help us to participate more deeply in the mysteries of the Liturgy and connect these events with your own daily life.

WHY CATHOLIC?  Faith Formation Workshop:  “Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist: A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today”  

March 29/30—Christ’s Presence in the Word and in the Eucharist

All Catholics are expected to participate actively in each Liturgy they attend!  Ask yourself, “How do I do that?”  How can you become more conscious of Christ’s presence in the Word and Eucharist?    We listen and are nourished by God’s Word. We partake of the Eucharist knowing Jesus’ promise to feed us and to sustain us in love.  Are you aware of the visible and hidden mysteries of the Church?  Can you talk about the signs and symbols that call you to action during the mass?  You have an invitation to attend the Faith Formation Workshop called: “Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist:  A Eucharistic Spirituality for Today.”  Learn more about the richness of the Eucharistic Prayers and how important YOU are to make this a sacred event.  Contact your pastoral staff today for details on the workshop.