Message of the Week May 5, 2024

Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

“Sin is the failure to bother to love.”

James Keenan, S.J., wrote those words in his book, A History of Catholic Theological Ethics. I just finished reading it.

In the Gospel assigned for this weekend Jesus gives us some parting words, "This is my command, love one another."

It is simple: just love. Anything less is sin, according to Keenan. Anything less lets Jesus down. It doesn't foster communion, relationship, discipleship. Maybe anything less is sin. Maybe Kennan got it right.

Seems these days it is difficult for many in the Church to love transgender people. Judgement trumps love when it comes to them.

In a few weeks a good friend and colleague told me they will be "coming out" and sharing their story as a transgender person. I pray the Church is loving, that everyone is loving. Anything less is sin.

I've seen love effect miracles here at Historic Saint Paul, especially as it concerns those in my ministry to and with LGBTQ+ people. I've never seen sin effect miracles. Only love.

I pray God continues to give us the grace and the stamina to continue to love - always and everywhere.

Please pray for me.
JR
Director of LGBTQ+ Ministry