In times of change, Christ is constant

When the railroads were first introduced to the U.S., some folks feared that they'd be the downfall of the nation! Here's an excerpt from a letter to then President Jackson dated January 31, 1829: As you may know, Mr. President, railroad carriages are pulled at the enormous speed of 15 miles per hour by engines which, in addition to endangering life and limb of passengers, roar and snort their way through the countryside, setting fire to crops, scaring the livestock and frightening women and children. The Almighty certainly never intended that people should travel at such breakneck speed.

Change is certain in our lives. Some change is unexpected and other change we initiate. A year ago this time I was giving thoughts toward retirement in July and then came the March proposal to stay in active ministry for another year. After some discernment I agreed to postpone retirement until July 2026. Beginning July 1, my title changed from pastor to parochial administrator. In reality, the title change is to indicate I have postponed by retirement. In my letter of assignment Bishop Patrick wrote: as a parochial administrator, you are bound by the same obligations and have the same rights as a pastor. However, parishioners should be made aware of the exceptional nature of your extended parochial ministry. As a way of signifying this change, I took the month of July as vacation and throughout the coming year will be gone on some weekends.

Change is coming to our One in Christ ACC. Changing demographics and fewer priests call for different way of proclaiming the Gospel. The Diocesan “All Things New” process is to give birth to an even more dynamic diocese, reenergized and more focused on knowing Christ on the deepest level.

Contrary to some there is no predetermined outcome of this process. We have an opportunity to help shape our future. If you haven’t already, plan to participate in the two town hall sessions this Tuesday and Thursday. Your input is vital.

How to handle change. First, acknowledge change is happening. Remind yourself you will be okay. Second, think back to times in your life when you feared change, but in the end, what you feared most never happened. Recalling when you overcame change in the past can help ease current fears.

Third, prepare for the change. Visualize how you can live this “new normal” way of life successfully. Write down the positives which will come because of the change. Fourth, take time in prayer. Ask God to help you calm the negative thoughts that are coming to mend. Grieve what is being lost and at the same time take God’s hand as he leads to green pastures. Fifth, be kind to yourself. Accepting the changes will take time. It is normal to feel out of control. Forgive yourself for the times you stumble.

Again knowing God is there to help you get up. Finally, you may need to find an impartial person --- pastor or counselor, to help sort out your feelings so as to successfully navigate the transition you are facing.

Come Holy Spirit infuse us with wisdom and courage as we navigate the changes we will face.

Fr. Ron