From Our Lay Directors,
Welcome, October! I love this time of year when the air starts to be crisp, the leaves turn to a blaze of many vibrant colors, and the crops in the fields finish their final drying process prior to harvest. So many opportunities for us to be filled with awe and wonder.
If you had the opportunity to attend the closing for the Cursillo #295 men’s weekend, you know that the weekend was a time of awe and wonder. The men who attended were certainly touched by the love of God. We all know their experience, because it is an experience we all share. 1 John 4:16a “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us.” It is so good to be able to more fully understand the love that God has for each and every one of us!
We are called to share that love that we have received. As Paul tells us in Colossians 3:12 “Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” What’s the next step?
We learned on our Cursillo weekend that our mission as followers of Christ is to spread the love of God by “making a friend, being a friend, and bringing that friend to Christ”. Most of us are not called to live that mission in far off locations. “Bloom Where You’re Planted” is an older hymn often sung years ago, but its message is still valid. God has placed us where He wants us to be, where He needs us to be, for His plan of salvation. Who in your family, your workplace, your church, your neighborhood could benefit from being your friend, learning about the love of God through your love for them?
The at verse from Colossians reminds me of my mom. She certainly had a compassionate heart, and her humility, gentleness, and patience were obvious. (Especially to her 5 children. We were a handful!) As a result, people were drawn to her, regardless of their age. As a kid growing up, my friends loved her. Her positive influence and genuine love for others made such a difference in the circles where she was “planted”. Let us all take a closer look at those places where God has planted us and see where we can make a difference in the lives of those we touch.
As you may know, the costs for the weekends keep going up because that’s how it is in the world. We’re asking everyone to consider giving a small donation on a monthly or annual basis to help future candidates and team members to be able to participate without as much of a financial burden. (Our treasurer is Barb Stager, 4159 Grantley Rd., Toledo, OH 43613.) In addition, the movement also provides the “extras” for the weekend (Pilgrim’s Guides, crosses, etc.) that are not included in the cost for the weekend, relying on what is received through donations given at closings and Focus Days. Your help is appreciated!
Ultreya!
Kathy Otermat
John Lyons
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