I started the second to last week of my 3-month Ignatian retreat last night. Second time in less than three years. I’ve been following a spiral bound book of prayer and scripture and reflection. It is based on St. Ignatius’ Examen.
My pen has been hard at work each night. Noted a lot. Written responses to statements or questions. Sometimes emphasized previous notes. New thoughts marked down too.
One focus throughout it all is on those close to me. Mom died in 2020, oldest brother a decade prior, before my first retreat started. My other brother and a buddy (who was like a brother) passed away before the latest 12-week session.
Got to thinking about family when reading today’s Gospel. Jesus was told his mother and brothers were awaiting him. In his time cousins were sometimes considered like siblings. Read the conclusion below to the message Jesus offered us.
“Looking around at those seated in the circle he said,
“Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” Mark 3:34-35
Hmmm…we have a big family!
God Bless and Peace,
Deacon Tom
We have wheelchair accessible entrances to the church, social hall, and education center, and reserved pews, as well as fully accessible restrooms.
We are