Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ, 

   The other day, as I was praying in the church, it reminded me of a time when I used to do the same before coming to SFB Par-ish. As I sat on the right side of my former church, directly to the right of center, it really looked as if the tabernacle was situated on the right side of the altar.My altered view prompted me to consider perspective, the way we perceive situations, people, and their actions. In many situations, we are prone to making assumptions, jumping to conclusions, and becoming angry, or offended often before we have a clear understanding of a given situation. Patience in understanding the full context is key. People may relate something and leave out relevant facts or information. 

   I have experienced this firsthand and with others. There are often two sides to every story, and of-ten just hearing the situation from one side is not accurate. Let me be clear, though, we do believe in objective truth, right, and wrong. These are not just abstract concepts, but realities that guide us and reassure us in our faith journey. 

   I am also aware of how language is used, either intentionally or unintentionally, in a way that is mis-leading or inflammatory. If you have ever read a legal petition suing for injuries by someone who got some bruises, you may wonder how they can even move. Now, there are times when we do know most everything, and anger is probably an appropriate response. " 

   Anger: An emotion that is not in itself wrong, but when in anger, we do not use controlled reason. This emotion can harden into resentment, which can evolve into hatred, and ultimately become one of the seven capital sins. 

   Christ taught that anger is an offense against the fifth commandment. (See - Catechism of the Cath-olic Church) In whatever we are facing, offer our emotions to Him and he will bring you peace. Live and proclaim what Christ teaches as truth, forgive and love. 

Peace. 



Fr. Maassen 

   P.S. They will know we are Christians by our love. Let this message of love remind us that we are part of a community bound by love and faith.