April 28 - The Parish Family of Our Lady of Lourdes

Dear Parishioners:I recently read this letter from the Director of Vocations for our Diocese, Fr. Brian Barr.I would like to share his letter with you as we celebrate World Vocations Sunday. I alsowant everyone to encourage men and women everywhere to consider a vocation to thepriesthood or religious life. I believe that God is calling; I think the problem is that weoften are not listening carefully enough to hear that call from God.Remember: Together, we can do something beautiful for God!Fr. BrianJust recently I saw the movie “42.” It’s the story of Jackie Robinson and his struggle to breakthe color barrier in Major League Baseball in the 1940’s. It’s a powerful story of an Americanhero. In the movie, Harrison Ford plays Branch Rickey, the owner of the Brooklyn Dodgersand the architect of this plan to bring a black player into an all white league. Before askingRobinson, Rickey does an extensive search of the Negro Baseball Leagues. He knows he’llneed a unique individual to take on this revolutionary task. He’ll need not only a great athlete,but also a great man. He’ll need someone who’ll be able to endure extraordinary oppositionand hostility, someone who’ll be able to turn the other cheek when confronted withbigotry and ignorance. Rickey finds that special person in Jackie Robinson.In some respects, Branch Rickey calls Jackie Robinson to a unique greatness. He doesn’t forceor require him - he invites him. Robinson accepts the invitation and becomes a hero for theages. This idea of being called or invited to greatness is a story that we’ve heard before. Justlook at scripture and consider the prophets. They were individuals who were called by God tomissions of greatness. They too, were frequently met with opposition, but remained faithfulto God’s invitation. Consider our Communion of Saints. Like the prophets, they said “yes” toGod’s plan for them, and in the process inspired generations to holiness.I’d ask you to consider, for a moment, what God’s plan is for you? What has He invited youto and how have you responded? On April 28, the Church will celebrate World Day of Prayerfor Vocations. In setting aside this 4 th Sunder of Easter, all asked to consider those questionsand that special invitation.In a particular way, I ask you to pray for young people. Pray that they be open to God’s planfor them. Take a moment and consider some of the young people you know, particularlythose with a sense of faith and a desire to serve. Be their Branch Rickey. Ask them if they’veever considered the priesthood or religious life. Invite them. And pray for them.Rev. Brian BarrDirector of Vocations5 OLL-#439