How do I love thee?

Let me count the ways, of how God loves us, during this 6th Week of Ordinary Time! St. Scholastica, who we celebrated on the 10th, helps us to know God’s love in our lives – she who loved more could do more! As we see in the Gospel this Sunday, Jesus speaks and it is done. His words are words of power, not commentaries and admonitions. He wants to heal us.

“How do I love Thee? Let me count the ways.” I remember memorizing this poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806 – 1861), an English poet, many moons ago while in high school. St. Valentine’s Day reminds me of the many ways God loves us! It gives me the courage to grow in my love for Him, and for neighbour!

This week, I spoke with contacts over at Amazing Parish (in Denver) and Divine Renovation (in Halifax). I had received two emails last week to start the conversation regarding coaching for our parishes! Both are currently offering free coaching to parishes. I have already spoken to our NGP Finance and Pastoral Councils about this. In the next few weeks we will begin this process more officially.

I also participated this week in our English Pastoral Day. We spoke of the joy of the mission, even during our current reality. Though we have implemented many new tools to help the digital mission – LIVESTREAM masses, Facebook Pages, Youtube Channels, Nota Bene – it is true that not all are parishioners are connected, or receiving the news. As was mentioned during the conference, many are still suffering. Thursday, February 11th, we prayed the World Day of the Sick. Many continue to suffer globally, but locally as well, from depression and isolation. There are resources to help us – Whitestone Clinic and Family Services. Moved by compassion and love, Jesus wants to heal us too.

As I mentioned, last weekend I participated on a video call with Fr. Rob Arsenault, discussing the digital mission (see interview)! Our churches have been closed, however, our parishes are alive! We discussed new ways to connect with people, and he gave me the idea to start my own videos with parishioners. Please stay tuned for more. Fr. Rob has been active online for a few months now. Here is another video he did with His Grace Archbishop Marcel Damphousse.

God is at work in our lives! No one wants this pandemic. But let’s not waste this particular time! How do I love thee? I invite you to send an email, or call someone from our parishes who could use a friendly hello. I am thinking of you, and praying for you all. Let us continue to reach out via emails, website, phone calls, VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENTS (coming soon). Let us pray for each other. Thanks to you for reaching out to your neighbours! How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

Finally, two meetings in the coming weeks:

• February 16th: North Glengarry Parishes Finance meeting. We will also discuss the best ways to share last years finances with all our parishioners.
• February 24th: North Glengarry Parishes Pastoral Council. We will continue to discern our vision and mission within SDG. How can we make the Catholic Faith grow in our area?

Have a great week, and a great start to Lent! Peace.