Over the past several weeks, I have been reflecting on the changing seasons in the life of St. Michael Parish. I have also introduced the work of our Property Task Force, which is beginning to assess our buildings and facilities so that we can establish priorities and develop a responsible plan for the future. These reflections have generated considerable conversation among parishioners, which was precisely my hope. Some of that conversation has been encouraging and constructive. Some has involved speculation and rumors. That is perhaps inevitable whenever we begin discussing changes to places that people have known and loved for generations. But I believe these conversations are important. Before we can make wise decisions about the future, we need a shared understanding of our present circumstances.

Last week, I reflected on the practice of praying the St. Michael Prayer after Mass. This week, with the Feast of Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael coming on September 29, I would like to look more closely at the saint whose name our parish bears.

Recently, someone asked me about the custom of adding the words, “and for the prayers we hold quietly in our hearts,” at the end of the General Intercessions at Mass. They wondered why sometimes we say it and sometimes we do not. It is a good question, and it gives us an opportunity to return to something we reflected on a few weeks ago: the priestly role of the baptized.

Over the past several weeks, we have been reflecting on the vocation of the laity. We began with who the laity are: baptized members of Christ’s Body. Last week, we considered where their mission is lived: in the vineyard of family life, work, culture, and the wider world. Through Baptism, the faithful share in the threefold mission of Christ as Priest, Prophet, and King. This week, let us focus on what it means to share in His priesthood.