(From Catholic.org) The August 21 solar eclipse will be visible mostly in the United States, but it's impact is already being noticed around the world. It's fueling an interest in astrology and fortune telling, as such events often do. Now, Pope Francis has issued a warning against "false securities," reminding us to trust in Christ. People are flocking to astrologers and fortune tellers to find meaning in the event. It's natural for people to seek meaning in things they don't understand. This is especially common when the event in question is rare or poorly understood. As we know, a solar eclipse is the product of the Moon passing in front of the Sun from the perspective of a person on the surface of the Earth. There is no meaning beyond this. Yet, astrologers are enjoying renewed interest in their trade.
Pope Francis reminded audiences last Sunday when he said, "When we do not cling to the Word of the Lord, but consult horoscopes and fortune tellers, we begin to sink." Pope Francis connected his comment to the Gospel reading in which Peter began to sink in the water but was saved by Christ. The word of God, Pope Francis said, is "like an outstretched rope to cling to in front of the hostile and turbulent waters." We sink when we put our faith in the wrong things. "The guarantee against a shipwreck is faith in Christ and in his word."
Heading off to College? God is there!
Every college has a Catholic center located somewhere on or near the campus. There will be Mass, definitely on Sundays and often during the week, as well as a supportive community of fellow Catholic students. Our Lord always wants to be near to us and help us. College is a really important time for any person’s growth. It is so important for us to make sure that God plays a big part in that growth. Getting to Sunday Mass, practicing our faith, saying our prayers are all essential in staying close to God and receiving his grace, protection, and love.
House of Charity Update
We are very close to our goal for this year…we are at 89%. We are about $16,000 from making our goal. Thank you so much for what you have done so far. If you haven’t made your gift yet, please do so, we need to come through for the needy in our diocese and for the good of our parish. You are always so generous and responsive, please, let’s make our goal!
God bless,
Father Joseph Byerley
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