Dear friends in Christ
The Gospel of the Mass this weekend speaks of the Tribute to Cæsar. The Pharisees attempt to trap Jesus with their question about whether they should pay their taxes. Jesus gives them a profound response, going far beyond their expectations: give to Cæsar what belongs to him—obedience to just laws, but nothing more. The State does not enjoy absolute dominion. As ordinary citizens, Christians have the obligation of rendering to the State whatever material and personal services are required for the common good (Vat II, GS,75). For their part, the civil authorities are obliged to act with equity and justice in the distribution of their goods and services. They have to serve the common good without looking for personal gain. They have to govern and legislate with the greatest respect for the natural law and rights of people. For our part, we are obliged to pray for those who exercise civil authority. What has come to pass in our society is what Cardinal Luciani—later Pope John Paul I—once pointed out: Today all seem frantically direct toward material conquests: make money, invest, surround oneself with new comforts, live the 'good life'. Few think also of 'doing good'. God--who should fill our life--has on the contrary, become a very distant star, to which people look only at certain moments. People believe they are religious because they go to church; but outside of church, they want to live the same life as many others, marked by small or big, deceits, acts of injustice, sins against charity; and thus they totally lack coherence. We have to live consistent lives as we render to God and to others their proper due. May we live lives entirely for God and use everything in this life for His greater glory.
FINANCE COMMITTEE For the twenty years that I have been Parish Priest, Mr Philip Henwood has Chaired our Parish Finance Committee. However, Philip was long in this position before I arrived and has served the Parish devotedly for fifty-five! Now he has moved away from the area to enjoy retirement after a long and successful career in the legal profession. Philip has been an indispensable and loyal support to me down the years, giving of his time and expertise; he will be greatly missed but remains an associate parishioner! Ten years ago he was awarded the Papal honour Bene Merenti in recognition for all his work, especially for his efforts in getting the Parish Centre built.
The new Chair of the Finance Committee is Mr Bernard Hannah, another longstanding parishioner. The other members are: Mr David Lesley, Mrs Marie Rubbert, Mr Allan Long, Miss Joanne Watkins, Mr Darrell Binding and Mrs Jacky Hoggett (Secretary). The Committee meets six times per year and advises on matters relating to Parish finance and fabric. They are an invaluable source of help and support in freeing-me-up to focus on matters pastoral. I am deeply grateful for all their help and hard work on behalf of the Parish.
God bless you all!
Msgr Kevin Hale