“A Rockathon, here in Rockdale, under the caring gaze of our parish patron, Saint Peter, the Rock... this was part of a recipe for an experience that held both wonder and success!
The Youth of our parish joined forces with the Youth Ministry leaders and parent volunteers to find creative ways to have fun and to bear witness to our faith. Their efforts began, of course, prior to this event, as they sought financial contributions, and as they received donations before and after Masses on the weekend. Having raised more than $1,000.00, this event has made it possible for them to “shop” and restock the shelves of the food pantry associated with Peace of Bread, and to make funds available for the purchase of the food that will be used for our next Wednesday evening preparing and serving the meal at Peace of Bread. Wow!
This is a remarkable way in which the Light we proclaim on this Third Sunday in Ordinary Time shines still, and shines brightly. As I took a brief turn on one of the rocking chairs, I drifted in my mind to how life in my childhood home seemed at times to revolve around the rocking chair there. And I thought of the thousands, perhaps millions who have known a similar place where a parent or grandparent or other older relative seemed to preside over family life. A word or a smile, a nod while spending the appointed time praying the Rosary could acknowledge and bless. A stern look or word could be an invitation to be the better persons of which we are capable.
Our Rockers receive our acknowledgment even as they bless us. They shed the Light, and invite us gently to be the better persons of which we are capable.