Browsing Fr. David McElroy articles

Tales of Catholic Grade School

May 23, 2021 

How many of you remember Catholic grade school?

Church, devotions, catechism, penmanship and the book “Manners for Boy and Girls” were among our many experiences and  "Catholic stuff" we had to learn. At school, we had the tradition of celebrating our name day and it was a big deal whose Saint you were bound to in the great hierarchy of saints.   

Patrick, Joseph, Peter, and Paul ruled the order of the day as did Mary, Bridget, Margaret, and Elizabeth.

Being born on Pentecost Sunday meant I had a moveable feast. However, the much-beloved Pope John XXIII died on that day; each year the teachers at school remembered not only the day with a huge sigh but also added that "poor ole JFK" was also lost that horrible year! 

Of course, years later St. John XXIII would be remembered as a Pope of a New Pentecost and the role of the Holy Spirit in the Church.  

It's 2021 and this weekend we celebrate Pentecost. The moment of the sending of the Spirit or the birthday of the Church as many now refer to it. St. Katharine Drexel Parish of St. Mary has a stunning window of Mary at Pentecost depicting Mary at the birth of the church, the opposite window depicts Mary at the birth of Jesus. 

Our parish prayer speaks of how the Holy Spirit helps us on the way as missionary disciples. Imagine having the "hospitality of Mary" coupled with the gift of the Holy Spirit. Now that is a fine combination to announce Good News.

In our hospitality, let us welcome all in our parish life whether masked or unmasked - wherever their comfort level may lie - as we never know what is in the heart of the person.

We also reflect upon the glory of the Holy Cross and the gentle kindness of St. Francis who bore the wounds of Christ. What a manifold way to bear witness to the rich tapestry of life in the Spirit in our lives in Kaukauna and Hollandtown. Let us once again cast a glance at our parish prayer, which can help us in this endeavor:

Loving God and Father - You sent your Spirit to us to help us on our Way. Give us the grace as people of Kaukauna Catholic Parishes; to discover the life of Jesus, and to live and share this Joy with others- so that your will may be done on earth as it is in heaven. Through Jesus Christ our Lord forever and ever. Amen.    

Forever and aye,

Fr. Mack

 

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