A Blessed New Year and Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God to everyone! As we reflect upon the past year and look forward to the start of 2013, many of us will make resolutions to start the New Year off right. Topping most people's lists includes losing weight, eating healthier, exercising more, quitting bad habits, etc. These are all good things, these resolutions to take care of our physical selves. Some of us will resolve to read more, watch less TV, spend less time in front of "screens", maybe take a class, learn a language. Again, these are all admirable goals we have to improve our minds.
But how many of us resolve to take care of our spiritual selves a little better in 2013? What would a resolution for faith look like? Maybe it's resolving as a family to pray together everyday - something as simple as a meal prayer. Or using some of the suggestions from earlier posts to enhance our prayer practices. Or how about spending a few minutes everyday doing some spiritual reading, or reading a chapter a day of the Bible? We could even take care of both our intellectual and spiritual sides by participating in a faith formation class, Bible study, or workshop offered by the Adult & Family Ministry office. What about resolving to volunteer at one of our parishes - there are numerous ways to do so: as a Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Usher, sing in one of the choirs; as a catechist, small group leader, retreat chaperone, Minister of Care; or join one of the numerous committees: Human Concerns, Christian Formation, Prayer & Worship, Building & Grounds, Christian Women etc.
Have you ever gone on a spiritual retreat (that wasn't required by a faith formation program!)? Did you know there are places right in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee that cater to adult retreat needs? (The Siena Retreat Center in Racine and the Redemptorist Retreat Center in Oconomowoc offers a variety of different retreats of varying lengths and styles). Or check out the Jesuit Retreat House in Oshkosh or St. Anthony Spirituality Center in Marathon, WI. Retreats are great ways to kick start our faith lives.
And what about resolving to participating in the Sacraments on a more regular basis? We immediately think of Eucharist - and we all should be attending Mass every Sunday. But what about making an effort to attend daily Mass when you can? Or resolving to take advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation more often? Or even again for the first time in (fill in the blank) years!
These are just a few of the ways we can all resolve to deepen our faith in 2013 (and hopefully beyond.) What will you resolve to do in this Year of Faith? Feel free to post what you will you do in the comments section - maybe your idea will help someone else!
Blessings on all of our resolutions for healthier bodies, minds and spirits!
Maureen
Maureen Rotramel
Youth & Young Adult Minister
I plan to check my phone app that has the daily readings and a reflection on the readings. I think it is called laudete if you want to check it out.
ReplyDelete