The New England Patriots won the Super Bowl two weeks ago. Some football analysts thought it was the greatest Super Bowl comeback ever. After the game, numerous Patriots players shared that their season definitely had its challenges. They experienced moments of doubt and frustration. In some games, key players got injured or they got into arguments. Throughout the season, they had to work hard and learn to trust each other. In the end, the players were committed to doing their best to win for the team.
One temptation as Catholics is to think, “Faith is just a personal thing. I can make choices based on my own convenience.” For example, I once met someone who said, “I just go to mass wherever. I might go to this parish this Sunday and then change next Sunday. Anyways, it’s the same God and I still go to mass right?” In one sense, this person is correct. The beauty of our Catholic faith is that no matter where you might be, you can still receive Jesus’ Body and Blood in the Sacrament at any Catholic parish. While on vacation, I can fulfill my Sunday obligation by attending a parish on Guam, Hawaii, Palau etc… I’m not confined to just worshipping at one particular parish.
On the other hand, I would say there is also something very beautiful about committing yourself to a parish. To think of yourself as a key player in a parish team. When I am committed to a parish, I’m able to forge friendships. I share stories with fellow parishioners and listen to them as well. At times we rejoice and at other times we comfort one another. In addition, my commitment to a parish allows me to support the mission of my parish team. The financial contributions I make will support the parish needs, activities, youth group, religious education, and other programs needed to sustain the life in the community. The good examples I set will inspire the youth of the parish to be involved and active in the faith as they grow older. When each player contributes his or her time, talents, and treasures the whole team benefits.
It’s true that committing yourself to a parish might not always be easy. Like a sports team, sometimes we experience challenges. Maybe we go through a tough experience, someone hurts or offends us, our opinions are not taken seriously as we would like, or we deal with difficult people. God forbid that the Pastor becomes a source of anxiety and frustration! However, we should not see these as opportunities to give up and move on, but as opportunities to grow in faith, charity, and patience. So go on and be committed to your parish. As much as you can, participate in the community life. See yourself as a key player for your parish team and stay committed.