Be IN the world, not OF the world

Generations of Faith is bringing generations of the faithful together via discussions on how to better our Church. The network is a collaboration between the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, Spa City Catholic, Twin Bridges Catholic, Goodwill Network, St. Clement’s Church, Corpus Christi Church and the Knights of Columbus.

Last time we talked about how Generations of Faith (GoF) came to be. Recall, GoF is a process whereby a collaboration of the faithful, blessed by The Spirit, creates situations for all generations to come together. The purpose: to better know your neighbor and share together in Christ. This is a critical step in “loving your neighbor as yourself.” If all people were interested in doing this, the way this day unfolded 24 years ago may have been much different.

In its short existence, GoF has empowered a number of gatherings, sharing around the topics that included: “Who Is my neighbor?” “How can I know the will of God for me? and “Spiritual warfare: The battle for your soul.” I promised to tell you about the upcoming, dynamic gathering.

On Wednesday, Sept 17, from 6-8 p.m., GoF will facilitate a gathering to share on the topic: “Be IN the world, not OF the world” at St. Edward the Confessor (569 Clifton Park Center Road) in Clifton Park. It is for all the faithful between the ages of 3 and 103. 

The adults will gather separately from the children. Further, the children will be appropriately grouped according to age (St. Edward’s has a LOT of room). There is no cost for this event. A freewill offering will be available. The only requirement is all who plan on attending be individually listed/registered in advance. Light dinner and refreshments will be provided.

Sister Teresa Grace Baillargeon, CR, special guest, will kick it off for the adults with some thought-provoking comments. Then you will have the opportunity to engage in robust, small-group discussions with your neighbors. It is a wonderful chance to connect in Christ. It is a chance to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Didn’t Jesus tell us this is a must-do if we are to gain the kingdom of heaven?

Meanwhile, at 5:30 p.m. there will be a youth rally for ages 3-17. It will feature a special BBQ. There will be age-appropriate activities/sharing facilitated by certified catechists from parishes in the area. This is being overseen by Rita Penny, a theology teacher at Saratoga Central Catholic School as well as the coordinator of Faith Formation and Children’s Sacramental Prep at St. Clement’s Parish. The 5:30 p.m. start will give parents time to bring their children, then make their way over to the adult gathering. Both the youth rally and adult session will end at 8 p.m. Parents can walk over and reunite with their children. 

This is truly a gathering for all generations of the faithful!

So …

If the events and happenings of this world are troublesome, and you feel adrift …

If you are centered in Christ but have moments you feel pulled away …

If your life in Christ is going well, and you have joy to share …

If you feel spiritually isolated and want to connect in a meaningful way …

If the trappings of the world are getting on your last nerve …

If you have questions or doubts or if you have found some answers …

Go to this link: https://forms.gle/omrnqQ6EDmiiYMJs8, and come to St. Edward the Confessor on Wednesday, Sept. 17, and share with your neighbors in Christ about how we can be IN this world and not OF this world.

Walt Pazderski is a parishioner at St. Clement’s Church in Saratoga Springs.