Today the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, Bishop, and Confessor. Martin was a convert to the faith. Martin was a soldier who eventually left before the year 361 to follow religious pursuits. One of the most beautiful stories about this saintly man is that when he was a member of the Roman cavalry, he used his sword to cut his cloak in half to share it with a poor beggar who had nothing. Saint Martin of Tours is often depicted in art on horseback, sharing his cloak with a beggar.
One of the first lessons we learn as children is to share what we have with others, especially those in most need. This loving saint of sharing begs the question, what have we to share with others? In so many ways, we can subtly hoard what we have.
There was a time when there were little or no storage facilities. Now, it seems, we find these buildings on every block. What do we have that is so important that we cannot give to others, especially those in most need? What do we own that we find it difficult to let go of?
In 32 years of priesthood, I have officiated at countless funerals and made many trips to the cemetery. I have yet to see a U-Haul behind a hearse, for as the saying goes, “there are no pockets in a shroud.” As we pray for the dead and reflect upon our own death in this month of November, it is important to recognize that we take nothing with us when we leave this world except our relationship with God and the way we lived that relationship out with our brothers and sisters.
Some years ago, in the aftermath of celebrating 25 years of priesthood, I attended a mini-sabbatical at Saint Meinrad Seminary in Saint Meinrad, Indiana. One of the talks I will never forget was one entitled, “Decluttering One’s Life.” Over the years, we can accumulate so much stuff. Many of these items just sit on a shelf or a closet of no use to us. Meanwhile, many people could benefit from what we have but do not use.
Saint Martin of Tours was willing to give half of his cloak that he was wearing to a beggar. What are we willing to give in the way of our time, talent, and treasure to those in need? There are many non-profit organizations like Saint Vincent de Paul who will take clothes and furniture and find a new home for them. Remember, in the gospels, we are reminded that much will be expected of those who have an abundance. Jesus says it even more clearly and cogently when he says, “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.” (Matthew 19:24). May God bless us with the grace to count our blessings and to share accordingly with those in need!
Speaking of sharing, it has been the custom to collect canned goods at the Thanksgiving Mass to share with the Little Sisters of the Poor. Because of the pandemic, and the potential danger of spreading the virus through the passing of canned goods, we will have a separate monetary collection at the Thanksgiving Day 9:00 am Mass in the parking lot of Saint Alexis for the Little Sisters of the Poor. Thanks for your kindness and support.
On behalf of our clergy and staff, I want to thank you for continuing to share your offering with Saint Aidan Parish each week. Your generosity not only allows us to continue the Mission of our parish but also to pay our bills and compensate our employees. Thank you so much! May God continue to bless you abundantly!
Finally, as the virus continues to spike, it is important that we keep each other safe. The surge is real. During this past week, I witnessed a baptism, memorial Mass, and wedding all having to be postponed due to the fallout from the virus.
Please be careful. Stay well, and stay strong. Have a blessed week!
Today is Veterans Day and we thank God for all of the men and women who courageously gave their lives, and those who bravely serve our country today to protect our freedom, we thank you!