The recent document from Pope Francis regarding the Joy of Love has created a lot of attention to his remarks, the content of the document and the Catholic Church in general. There are a number of topics in the document which are worth commenting on and some which are creating some puzzling dialogue. In Pope Francis' teachings, and in this document in particular, he continues to remind people about being attentive to their conscience. As a consequence of conscience gaining so much attention from the pope, I thought it good to brush up on our definition of conscience. In order for us to understand what God and the pope expect, we ought to gain a clearer picture of those expectations.

There any number of educators in our region who are delighted in the recent weather and forecasts. Reason being, they do not have to battle with students as much since young people are more content with classroom work when the weather is icky outside. And, as far as work attitude goes, some others of us are also quite comfortable with the weather which allows fewer distractions as we go about our business of getting ready for spring and summer before spring and summer arrive. On the other hand, there are a good many of us who are chomping at the bit to get going outdoors. Those activities may include countless types of recreation. Additionally, those outdoor activities might include some necessary agricultural work. All things considered, we are still in the first half of April and there is potential for harmful weather which could hinder our early growing temptations. So it's our part to calm ourselves down, fight spring fever and do what Divine Mercy commands us… Trust in Jesus!

Happy Easter! He is Risen, Indeed He is Risen! I hope you've had a chance to browse the pages of the most recent issue of Catholic Life. Even if you cracked the cover open, you were able to see Bishop Callahan's article reflecting upon a local to global view of Divine Mercy. The article is not academic; rather it's quite reachable and puts today's Divine Mercy Sunday and the Year of Mercy into common terms. I encourage you to read it, or read it again. Also, on the outside of the back cover of the same issue, you'll find a simple explanation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet. If you are unable to attend the devotions at St. Lawrence this weekend, perhaps you'll take some time to pray the chaplet today. Or, you may consider making the Divine Mercy Chaplet part of your weekly or daily devotions. Then, if you want to get a little deeper into the issue, there is a lengthy article about Divine Mercy near the center of the magazine. Happy reading and happy praying.