From the Bishops Summer goal: Relax, but do not become lax

Jul 15, 2010

Summer is upon us, which means that, for many, it is vacation season. This annual ritual offers us a much-needed break from the stress and worries that come with the daily routine. What a gift to be able to take time away with our families and friends to rejuvenate our souls! Even the Venerable Pope John Paul II was fond of vacations and, both as a young priest and bishop, often trekked the mountains of Poland with the young people of his parish and diocese. As summer is upon us, we must recall that while we may take a vacation, we must not take a vacation from the Lord!

We are members of the Body of Christ; this essential aspect of our identity does not change or lessen when we begin a relaxing vacation. As life slows down in the summer and exciting events fill our days, we can be tempted, sometimes very tempted, to become lax in some key practices of our Faith.

For example, a trip away means we must plan to participate in the Sunday Mass. The Catechism reminds us, “Participation in the communal celebration of the Sunday Eucharist is a testimony of belonging and of being faithful to Christ and to his Church.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2182). Pope John Paul II was so aware of the importance of the Mass that he would celebrate it daily in his summer excursions with his young friends. Mass was said in the outdoors with the paddles of his kayak tied into a cross (Witness to Hope, George Weigel, pg. 103). In this digital age, it has become increasingly easy to locate a parish and discover its Mass times. In fact, the Diocese of Arlington provides a parish locator at www.arlingtondiocese.org so that anyone traveling in Northern Virginia will know exactly where and at what time they can find a Mass. If one is travelling outside of the diocese, one could check diocesan websites or www.masstimes.org for schedules.

The Holy Mass is the re-presentation of the Dying and Rising of Jesus, it is often called “the Eucharistic Sacrifice.” It is our participation in the Memorial of the Lord’s Death and Resurrection, where bread and wine are consecrated by the priest into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Especially during this most reverent of times, it is important to acknowledge another key Catholic virtue which we must be sure to practice, especially in these warmer months: that of modesty. Christ’s incarnation as man reminds us of the inestimable dignity of the human body, made in the image and likeness of God. Therefore, we do not dress modestly because the human body is bad; rather, we dress modestly because it is so very good, it is the temple of the Holy Spirit!

While some clothing may be acceptable on the beach or boardwalk, there is a certain amount of reverence which is accorded to the Mass, and our clothing should reflect such reverence. Wearing clothing that is suggestive or overly revealing at this most sacred event shows a lack of understanding for this holy mystery of our Faith, as well as for the sacredness of the human body. We should think of how we would dress if we were invited to a special dinner at a dear friend’s house. Just as we would wear clothing that would reflect our respect and appreciation for that friend, so too should we dress appropriately for Mass, where Jesus Christ awaits us.

Vacations can be a particularly important time to strengthen our relationships with our spouse, children and friends. Often stepping away from the office or daily chores allows us to engage in valuable conversations and to simply enjoy time together with those we love. Similarly, vacations are a peaceful time where we can foster our relationship with the Lord.

When packing your bags, be sure to slip into your suitcase a book on the spiritual life of a saint. Remember to pray daily and say grace before and after meals. Truly observe the beauty around you and reflect on how God is seen in His Creation. “Nature, not only human art, participates in the sacrifice of the Son of God,” wrote John Paul II about saying Mass outdoors on vacation. Resolve to practice the virtue of prudence and make decisions to select entertainment that reflects what you know from your faith to be good, true and beautiful. It is easy to become complacent on a warm beach sipping tropical beverages, but remember that we are called to enjoy all things in moderation. Be safe on the road and be good example to others as a model of Christian living.

In six days the Father created the world, but recall that “Since on the seventh day God was finished with the work he had been doing, he rested on the seventh day from all the work he had undertaken” (Genesis 2:2). With God Himself as our model, we know that vacation can be a well-deserved time of rest. As we take our vacations this summer, remember that while we may step away from daily routines, we never cease being an individual called to a close relationship with the Lord, and with the people He places on our path. I pray that all of you may be blessed in these upcoming summer months, and that you will enjoy happy, grace-filled and memorable times with your loved ones.

Reprinted with permission from The Arlington Catholic Herald.

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