In the second reading today, taken from St. Paul’s 2nd letter to the Corinthians, Paul is instructing the Corinthian community how to act graciously in regards to the needs of others. “As you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also.” Paul is saying that as all intellectual and physical gifts have been given to you, you must share those willingly and graciously with others in need.

Paul is instructing them that their abundance will serve the needs of others and the abundance of others will serve your needs. Therefore there is equality. Paul then concludes with a quote from Exodus 16:18 which is very applicable to us all: “Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less.”

This is true stewardship. Do we practice it in our lives?
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The Vacation Bible School (VBS) has finished. I am grateful to Nancy Ogrinc and to her multitude of volunteers who again have provided our children with a great experience of Christ in scripture. This year there were over 450 children participating; and God provided good weather (except for the last day) so the campers could take part in some outdoor activities. VBS has always been a wonderful way for our children to begin their summer vacation. Thank you to all who volunteered!
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Speaking of summer, let us not forget to make time each week for worship. God is good to us and has provided each of us with many blessings – even in these economic hard times. Through our celebration of Eucharist, we praise and thank God for all God has given us; and we place before God our desires for the coming week. God does not take us for granted; neither should we take God for granted.

Enjoy the Blessings of Summer! Peace,

Fr. Gene