Orthodox Catholics and Dog Fights

08-23-2015Weekly ReflectionFr. Brian Jazdzewski

These days of August inspires some of us to think about preparing for school and others to recall memories of school days gone by. One of the phrases we tossed around was also used by students whom I taught at McDonell Central Catholic High School. Often the phrase was used in reference to some sort of contest, competition or other challenging situations. Perhaps the phrase is familiar to you: Its not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog! At the risk of stating the obvious, the phrase really helps us be mindful of will-power, determination and all-around internal strength.

These days of August inspire me to think back to recent conversations with brother clergy and some really faith-filled Catholics. None of us, at this point in time, ought to be shocked to know that during summer months Mass attendance and weekend collection amounts reduce in many places where Catholics like us pray. Further, none of us ought to be shocked to know that Catholic lifestyles, Catholicism as an individual and/or family priority, and general choices for faith-filled living are declining as well. Now for some perspective.

These matters are not limited to Buffalo County, the Diocese of La Crosse or the USA. Honestly, we remember the words of the late Saint Pope John Paul II who spoke of a “new evangelization,” meaning we were to preach and live the faith as if it were not well-known to begin again spreading the seeds (not the fruits) of the Gospel. Pope Benedict echoed these words near the beginning of his pontificate and added that Catholic numbers will decline; our hope is to have a deep faith so that, like faith the size of the mustard seed, we will be able to move mountains. More locally, Bishop Callahan admits that we may be at a low point in the number of Catholics involved in parish life; the benefit is that when we teach and act we will have a quicker response because there are less of us to make a move and adapt to the Gospel in the modern age. Statements like these, from other clergy and Catholics reflect hope. Hope, one of the three theological virtues!

Lest the term Orthodox Catholic confuse you, allow our definition to be people like you, Catholics who strive to deepen their understanding, acceptance and practice of faith each and every day (our hope is that you fit into that category). Consider an orthodox Catholic as one who does their level best to embrace Catholic teaching knowing its one of the principle vehicles to engage God in relationship. For example, recent reflections upon the Bread of Life discourses may have inspired orthodox Catholics to reflect upon the mystery, the gift, the sacredness, the graces and many other concepts about the Eucharist which is the source and summit of our faith. Our call, orthodox Catholics, is to continue deepening faith and believing what the Lord promised would be fulfilled. We are called to live a future full of hope!

Maybe a final thought ought to be: its not the number of Catholics in the pews, it’s the depth of faith in the Catholics!

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