Dearly beloved,
The prophet Amos champions the cause of the poor and speaks of God’s displeasure for injustice against the poor. He is relentless in preaching that wrongs perpetrated against the poor always have repercussions. In this weekend’s first reading, Amos communicates God’s word to the oppressors of the poor that they would be taken into exile not only for actively perpetrating injustice against the poor, but for neglecting to come to their help. We see this repeated in the Gospel story of Lazarus and the rich man.
Indifference and complacency in the face of human misery are as punishable as actively doing something to worsen the condition of others. We might not have it within us to inflict harm, but we cannot be exculpated from responsibility when we fail to do something to ameliorate the suffering of another. You do no wrong by enjoying your wealth gotten from many years of labor, living in the most expensive house on the block, going on that lavish vacation, driving a Porsche, or buying the most exquisite things because you can afford them. However, are you mindful of those who live next door who can barely afford one meal a day, or a decent piece of clothing on their backs? Let us not be in a hurry to condemn those who actively do evil deeds against others, but ask ourselves what we are doing or not doing to make things better.
This weekend we have the opportunity, once again, to give to a cause – to support our bishop in the mission of evangelization within our diocese. Participating in this year’s Annual Bishop’s Appeal (ABA) is one way of putting our resources in the service of the poor within our diocese. We are grateful to all of you for your donations in the past. I ask for your generous support again to help us realize our parish goal of $78,563.93. The total proceeds from the ABA will go to funding the activities for the 3-year Eucharistic Revival, Catholic Education, Seminarian Education, Charity to parishes and Charity to the needy, among others.
Finally, we want to express our gratitude to Deacon Greg Gerhed and his bride, Pat Gerhed, for their years of tireless service to our parish and community. Thank you for loving us through your service. We pray your retirement is blessed with plenty laughter and boundless happiness.
May Jesus bless you, and may Our Lady protect you!