When I look around the Feb. 13, Sat. 5 pm service at Resurrection Catholic Church, Aptos, CA I see many of the same people sitting in the same pew as the week before. The Liturgy has a sameness that provides a reassuring security. And I see many people I have never seen before.
I see a diverse congregation: families, and singles, old and young, many different ethnicities. One woman looked like she might have come in a horse and carriage. Wearing a red jacket, she is formally dressed with a striking black hat and veil. There were visitors from other cities and states.
Fr. Ron Shirley presided. He opened with a few brief remarks about what it is to be holy – to know our holes and weaknesses and to seek God to be made whole.
His homily was brief: two toasts to a couple at a marriage feast. He holds a wine glass up to make the toasts. The first toast, made by a friend of the bridegroom, included comments such as, may you always be rich and well thought of. And may you always be happy… The second toast, offered by someone not well dressed nor invited to the celebration, was quite different. May you be poor at times and turn to God… May you feel empty at times …and be filled by God. May you at times cry …
Fr. Ron’s brief messages connect the gospel and biblical readings to a Christian, spiritual life. He tells stories that are easy to remember. And worth remembering.
Pastor Shirley concluded the service with the words, The Mass never ends…it must be lived! Go forth to serve…” Ah, yes!
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