Faith and Action

05-21-2023The Pastor's PenRev. Matthew R. Paratore, S.T.L, J.C.L

Dear Friend,

When a famous restaurateur died in early 2002, he left behind more than just thousands of restaurants. He also left a legacy of being a practical, hard-working man who was respected for his down-to-earth values. Among the pieces of good advice that have outlived the smiling entrepreneur is his view of what Catholics should be doing with their lives.

This very savvy businessman, who as a youngster was influenced for Christ by his grandmother, said that believers should be "roll-up-your-shirt sleeves" Catholics.

In his biography, he said, "Roll-up-your-shirtsleeves Catholics see Christianity as faith and action."

"They still make the time to talk with God through prayer, study Scripture with devotion, be super-active in their church and take their ministry to others to spread the Good News of Christ and His Church."

He went onto say they are "anonymous people who are doing good for Christ and the Church may be doing even more good than all the well-known Catholics in the world."

That statement has more "meat" in it than a triple burger. Our successful restaurateur knew about hard work in the restaurant business; and he knew it is vital in the spiritual world also.

Let’s Roll-up-our-shirt sleeves, there is plenty to do. We can sustain this enthusiasm by always praying, and thus, never losing heart.

Father Matthew

Pastor