Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Jesus’ final apparition ends with the irreversible entry of his humanity into divine glory, symbolized by the cloud and by heaven, where he is seated from that time forward at God’s right hand” (No. 659).

Do you wonder what would have happened had he not ascended? Would we all be sitting by idly waiting in a lifelong line to get to shake his hand? And would we all be looking for him to fix everything asap?

One, Jesus forever sits at the right hand of God to intercede for us! This should not be lost, that he did not ascend to leave us alone, but to ever intercede before the throne of the Father! Sometimes our images of heaven can be very entertaining (no, heaven is not as pictured in the Simpsons)! But to know that the Lord is obtaining grace up grace for us should be a consolation!

Two, Jesus left so that he could send us the Spirit. His ascension has ushered in the age of sacrament and of the church. You need not go on pilgrimage to Jerusalem and wait in a forever line to see him. We just gave him to hundreds of seven year olds in First Communion! And His Spirit was just given to more than a hundred and eighty teens! His work on earth is not complete, but has moved into a mode where he has asked us to bear witness and make disciples.

My first pastor, when I was ordained, was Fr. Robert Avella. He was so good as a pastor to a new priest. He assigned me tasks and areas of responsibility, but had my back with the authority needed! When Our Lord gives us a task, like making disciples of all nations, he gives us the grace, and spiritual power to do so!

I think that is one reason for the ascension: so we wouldn’t sit around watching, and would roll up our sleeves! His authority and power are not lessened by delegation. What a privilege to be disciples and witnesses to the ends of the earth.

Be what you are!

pax et bonum.

Father John Mosimann

Where can anyone ever find the strength to overcome temptation?

There is a phrase in the biblical account of Susannah, where the two old lechers are described as falling into temptation by “refusing to raise their eyes to heaven and refusing to let God strengthen them.”

Overcoming temptation requires being able to rise above self. Above all feelings, all opinions and dislikes, so that we gaze upon God and bind ourselves to him by a glance, movement of our heart, or assent of our will.

Saint Jane Frances de Chantal said, “Look at God. Do this and nothing more. Remain in him in peace of mind and utter trust, completely given over to his care. Since you have confided to him and placed in his hands all that you are, let him now take charge, for you have handed over everything to his faithful love. Now you must work out your salvation on this cross. Let me assure you that he is sheltering you in his arms. So even though you feel nothing of this, remain content with your discontent.

To hold oneself in patience when suffering is already a high state of prayer, you may be sure, so do not force yourself to conscious acts. To gaze upon God while suffering with gentleness and submission is quite enough. Virtuous feelings do not lie within our power, but virtuous conduct does indeed lie within our power.

This is what God requires of you at the moment, while he holds you on the cross. The way of generous suffering is the way to heaven. Stand fast and bear your cross without thinking about it.”

Happy News for Fr. Sina:

Fr. Scott Sina has been assigned to our mission in Banica, Dominican Republic! He will depart Fredericksburg on June 1. We are grateful for his priestly ministry and generosity! A farewell reception has been planned for Tuesday, May 30th 5-8pm in the PLC. Please stop in and thank Fr. Sina and wish him well! Most importantly, we ask that you keep him close in prayer and add the intention of the Banica Mission to your prayer list!

pax,

Father John Mosimann