Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Dear Friends,

Today's Gospel teaches us a lesson on the importance of prayer. Jesus works hard, healing countless people, driving out demons and traveling to various villages. And despite all the busyness, the crowds and the number of people that need Him, He still makes time to go off to a deserted place to pray.

Prayer can be said at any time - in your car while you're driving, while you're waiting in line to order your lunch etc. - but Jesus teaches us that it is also important to intentionally set time apart in your day to have prayer. Time where you are alone with the Lord and not surrounded by distractions. Even if you are not able to go to a Chapel, there are ways to make your own "deserted place" - for example, you can turn off your cell phone for 15 minutes, light a candle and close your door, or set out a Holy Image or Icon for contemplation. St. Catherine of Siena often talks about going to her "inner room", a special place in her heart where she would meet Jesus.

May we all set aside intentional prayer time with the Lord this week!

God bless you,
Amy Burghardt | Development Manager