May 12, 2022
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LOCAL
www.superiorcatholicherald.org
Lectio Divina
The Scripture passage used for the Lectio Divina was Mark 2:1-12, the curing of the paralytic lowered through the roof, which was also used for local listening sessions. In summary of the regional gathering's reflections, partici- pants focused on the paralytic; the four men and circumstances surrounding their lowering him through the roof; and Jesus actions. The paralytic was seen as a symbol of the church herself - paralyzed through loss of practicing Catholics, paralyzed in evangelization efforts to reach outtothedisiliatedandadapt to the fast-paced changes in a society ever more hostile to God and organized religion. Some reflections saw the par- alytic as hesitant to seek Jesus out, resistant to the help of the four men or, on the other hand, seeking out anyone who could bring him into the presence of Jesus. Lastly, it was noted that he, too, was sent out after he was healed - his healing wasnt merely for himself. The four men were gener- ally considered creative and audacious in orchestrating an encounter between Jesus and the paralytic without counting the cost. Participants wondered what the blocked door to the house meant. It was acknowledged that sin and spiritual paralysis are messy and dark. The process might have been messy - leav- ing the roof to be later repaired - but they also noted that in opening access to Jesus, much light would have been let into the house. Some reflected on how Jesus honored the faith of the paralytic and the four men by performing the miracle, how he challenged the Pharisees firmly but gently, knowing their hearts and also trying to reach each person pres- ent in some way. Others concluded that Jesus showed how undeniably he was the Christ and that he couldnt not perform the miracle out of love for each person involved, out of his divinity and provi- dence. Bishop Powers added his own comments about the power of God that literally can be beyond belief at times, and the human element that can block Jesus ability to heal through doubt and resistance.
Synod reflection questions
The questions reflected on in small groups at each of the re- gional gatherings were the same as those provided for parish and cluster meetings: How would you describe Je- sus presence in your life? What or who helps you to know God more fully? Where do you see Jesus at work in your local community? What could the church do, if anything, to help you and be a more meaningful part of your life? Where do you see a need for the healing power of Jesus in your life or in your communi- ty? What steps do you hear the Holy Spirit asking us to take to deepen our commitment to the churchs mission of spreading the Gospel and making disci- ples? Discussions were analytical and constructive. Bishop Pow- ers' efforts to visit local parishes for confirmations and special celebrations were applauded, as were the recent increase in seminarians for the diocese and
SYNOD, from Page 1
Bishop James P. Powers gestures as he speaks to priests and laity gathered at Holy Family Church in Woodrufffor the March 19 eastern regional meeting with parish representatives to further discuss the Synod on Synodality. A similar meeting for the western parishes of the diocese was held at St. Joseph's Church in Shell Lake on March 13. (Submitted photo)
See REFLECTIONS, Page 5
Sponsored by the Respect Life Office: Diocese of Superior
To mothers on this day of honor:
Superior, Lake Superior Life Care Center www.lslccduluth.org 715-394-4102 Ladysmith, Care Net Pregnancy Resource Center of Northwest Wisconsin www.ladysmithcarenet.com 715-532-7600 Medford, Abiding Care Pregnancy Resource Center www.abidingcarecenter.org 715-748- 1235 Merrill, Baby Shower for Life 715-536-9231 Northwoods New Life Resource Center www.nwnewlife.org 715-634-2681 Rice Lake, Pregnancy Help Center www.pregnancyhelpricelake.org 715-736-4357 River Falls, Options for Women - River Falls www.ofwrf.com/; 715-425-8539 Osceola, Options for Women - Tri County www.optionstricounty.org/; 715-755-2229 Woodruff, New Dawn Pregnancy Resource Center newdawnprc.org/; 715-358-6700 Chequamegon Pregnancy Center www.Cheqpregnancycenter.com 715-682-1125 Project Rachel/Diocese of Superior www.catholicdos.org/healing-from-abortion 715-394-0217
Are you finding it difficult to celebrate Mother's Day because you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are frightened and confused? Pregnancy Care Centers (PCC) are located in the Diocese of Superior, as well as throughout the U.S. The staffare trained Christians offering an alternative to abortion, and a listening heart. If you or someone you know needs help, please call one of the following numbers and/or check out the information below.
We thank you for your unselfish love in giving life to our world; to birth mothers who lovingly choose adoption for their children, and to those who give the love of their hearts to adopted children.
The loveliest masterpiece of the heart of God is the love of a Mother." - St. Therese of Lisieux
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