Here we are in the season of Eastertide. It is a season of many graces and joy. It is a time to rejoice in the Lord, Jesus Christ. It is also the month of May a month which is devoted to our Blessed Lady. At present there is a lot happening in the Catholic Church in Ireland that is rather upsetting and negative. There is also a lot of little good things happening that seldom get a mention. It is important to focus on these little positive things that do a heart and soul much good.
Yesterday we had our monthly holy hour. It began with Holy Mass. Some children from the local primary schools joined us and they presented a flower to Our Blessed Lady at the start of the Mass. After mass there was Eucharistic Adoration and the rosary was recited. The hour ended with Benediction. As always it was a special time spent in the present of Our Lord and His Blessed Mother Mary. Many thanks to Fr. Denis for all his kind help to our group and a special thanks to the two ladies who contacted the schools and organised the hour.
Other news, one of our team had to attend a study day in Maryvale College in Birmingham. She is currently studying her faith with the college. Normally she studies in Dublin but as she had to miss the last study day she travelled to Birmingham to catch up and as she said herself it was well worth the experience. It was such a joyful day from beginning to end. The lectures were powerful and a lot was explained and learned.
It was amazing to see three Dominican Sisters and a Priest attending the course. The three sisters were so full of joy that they were almost like naughty children at the front of the class. The simple laughter and fun was just wonderful. Joy is contageous and this is certainly the season of great joy. Yesterday part of the topics covered was the virtues.
Today the lady who attended the course asked her grown up son if he knew about the virtues and if he had learned them in school. He replied that he did not. How can people practice being a catholic if they have not learned the truths of their faith? As parents it is important to check if your children are being given proper religious education in schools by asking random questions on religion now and again.
It is a catholic parents duty to hand on the faith to their children. If you as a parent are not fully aware or know the truths of the faith as contained in the Catechism of the Catholic Church then perhaps you might like to educate yourself on them so you can then pass on the true faith to your children. Its worth looking into and you will enjoy it and enrich your own faith. It is truth that sets us free and enables us to love God and our neighbour as ourselves.