It should be evident that a pastor’s primary responsibility is the spiritual welfare of his people. He is not a business manager, nor is he a building contractor (though it sure doesn’t hurt to have some of those skills, too!). In his care for his people, a pastor must model himself after the Lord Himself Who taught, healed, reprimanded, comforted, and encouraged the people. Yet, in all His teachings, it may come as a surprise to many, that – of all the things that Jesus spoke about – He talked about money the most. Think about it – the parables of the Prodigal Son, the Talents, the Unforgiving Steward, and many more – all deal with money. And then there is the account in today’s Gospel of the Widow’s Mite. The Church, following the example of the Lord, needs to teach strongly the dangers of the undue attachment to money and material things. It is not that these things are evil in themselves, though they can become a temptation for us to be selfish. Rather, God gives us these things so that we might demonstrate our generosity towards one another. That is why our financial stewardship towards the Church is so important. It fulfills two important Christian ideals: it demonstrates tangibly that one is not attached to material things, and it assists the Church in order to fulfill Her mission. And one doesn’t have to be rich (remember the widow in today’s Gospel). Everyone has the opportunity to be generous. All our parishioners should have received their letter from Bishop Battersby along with the Diocesan Annual Appeal materials. If you did not receive, or have misplaced, the bishop’s letter, you will find extra brochures and pledge forms in the gather place (SVdP) or Holy Family Cenacle (SSPP). Please pray for the success of the Diocesan Annual Appeal in our parishes and throughout the diocese! I am writing this on election day, Tues., Nov. 5, when, of course, the outcome is unknown. As civil, political, and social life has grown increasingly contentious these latter decades, the importance of steadfastness in the Faith rises proportionally. Pray for our country. And pray that by God’s Grace our leaders will preserve us in truth, justice, and peace. May God bless you!
Fr. Schaller