Mark 12:31
We are deep in the midst of the 2024 election cycle. This election occurs at a time of deep polarization within our nation. Everywhere we turn, we are inundated with disinformation, half-truths, personal attacks, hate-filled rhetoric and even violence, as both parties try to promote their positions and sway voters. Social media posts and memes are shared to all areas of the country in minutes and perpetuate misinformation and harassment. Even when many of these stories, posts, and attacks are proven to be false, they are still re-posted and re-shared for weeks at a time. To paraphrase PT Barnum, “No publicity, or meme, or lie, is bad publicity.” It seems that we are surrounded by animosity and intolerance, with no clear way forward. Sadly, this is the reality in which
we live.
As Christians, how are we to respond to this atmosphere of polarization and division? Jesus gives us the answer very plainly. In the gospels, Jesus tells us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mk 12: 31; Mt 22: 39; Lk 10: 27; Jn 13: 34). Now, love can take on a variety of different forms and actions, but at a bare minimum, loving our neighbors means to always treat them with respect and kindness. No matter the race, country of origin, economic status, or political persuasion of another, we are called to treat everyone with kindness and acceptance. This is Jesus’ command. This is the minimum standard of behavior that needs to be practiced by those of us who follow Jesus.
In light of this call, I would like to highlight three opportunities occurring at St. Noel in the next month. This weekend, September 21-22, Fr. Frank Rouleau will be with us at each Mass to preside and ask for our support. Father Frank is a priest of the Diocese of Norwich, Connecticut, who works with Outreach to Haiti, a program to aid the impoverished areas around Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The people of Haiti are experiencing devastating levels of poverty and gang violence. All money collected will be sent to Haiti to help with medical care, food, and education. Envelopes are available in the narthex, or you can mark your own: Diocese of Norwich Outreach. (If you are not prepared to offer assistance today, you still can in the days ahead.)
On Wednesday, September 25, we will offer our first GIFT session of the 2024-25 season. The theme for GIFT this year is Truth and the first session is entitled “Truth in Listening.” We will explore how each of us possesses aspects of the truth and how the whole truth can only be revealed when all of us share ourselves. We will put this realization into practice by participating in a synod-style listening session.
On Thursday, October 17, St. Noel will host the 37th annual Saint Augustine Benefit Dinner in our Banquet Center. For nearly four decades, this meal has brought both parishes together to provide the necessary financial support needed to continue the Corporal Works of Mercy at St. Augustine. This year’s formal invitation and promotional mailer should arrive in a matter of days. Even if you are unable to attend the dinner, there are many ways to offer your support!
Please consider attending or supporting these opportunities as ways to break free from the current climate of division. In the midst of our country’s turmoil, we need to remember that God is good and that God’s love and presence surrounds all of us. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we also need to remember that it is our mission and obligation to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Peace,
Deacon Dave