Dear Fellow Parishioners, Summer is right around the corner and there is something about summertime that changes the way we think. We develop a “recess mentality” that focuses on vacations, travel, changing our routines, the beach and umbrella-type drinks. All too often, faith is put on the back burner as our routines and habits change to accommodate the seasonal warmth.
So how do we maintain our spiritual habits once summer ramps up? HERE ARE A FEW PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS: ¨Define your priorities. What are the spiritual habits that draw you closest to God? Maybe it’s reading a Bible passage or a devotional, journaling, meditating or attending Mass. Pursue those habits above all else, even if they need to look different in the summer. Don't let running errands and activities bump faith down the priority list. Pray in the morning and recognize each day as a gift. ¨Take it outside. Take advantage of God’s Creation during its peak! Take your Bible and coffee out on the patio in the morning or go on a prayer walk around your neighborhood. Go for a long hike or bike ride on the weekends, savoring the beauty God has given us. Watch your kids play outside or enjoy a sunset walk with your spouse. ¨Enjoy your people. Enjoy precious times of community. Make plans to celebrate and spend time with your people, sharing life and enjoying their company. On Saturday, the Men of Hope gathered for burgers and beer. It was great to see several young families enjoying each other's company while their kids played together, as well as other men and spouses mingled together. ¨Vacation Bible School is a week-long celebration of faith and isn't just for kids! Through song, prayer, arts & crafts, movies, drama, and scripture, children grow in their understanding of God’s love. Teens and adults learn together, sharing their skills and talents to make VBS a success. ¨Find time to rest. Your relationship with God is like any other relationship. The more time you spend with God, the more you will come to know and love God. Intentionally create quiet moments. Don’t be afraid to say no to events that will drain your energy or that you don’t need to be at. My hope for this summer is not just to maintain my spiritual habits through summer, but to let them thrive in the heat and revitalize my weary spirit. Pam Chaplin