What is Church?
Week 1
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
I remember fondly our departed Bishop John Smith, who ordained me in 2009. He often used to say, “Now is our time to be church!” using church more as a verb than a noun. The being of church feels more in motion, like a responsibility and privilege, rather than an institution or building.
We can understand the word ‘church’ in many aspects. It can refer to the building, or the act of worship. At its root in Hebrew, Greek and Latin ‘church’ means the community assembled, called out or together, who are gathered together for worship (See Catechism 751-752).
This weekend we celebrate the Mother church of Rome: St. John Lateran - the oldest Basilica in Rome and the Bishop of Rome’s church, the place where his seat (cathedra) is found, the symbol of his universal teaching authority. In fact, today marks the 1700th year of its dedication, the oldest extant public church in Rome, founded in 324 AD. Its Baptistry is striking architecturally but also symbolically. For generations, the only baptistry in Rome, meaning countless 1000s became Christians passing through her waters, became members of the living Body of Christ, the Church, by being cleansed and adopted. This structure symbolizes what it means to enter into life in Christ, to leave behind our old ways and cling to newness of life in Christ.
Our readings today remind us that “church” is so much more than a building. Paul tells the Church of Corinth “You are God’s building…the temple of God, which you are, is holy” (See: 1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17). Together we are more than individual Christians, participating in redemption. We are each living stones, gathered together by the Lord, made holy in Christ, and invited to belong wholly to the one who is our Head and Spouse. We are members of the Body of Christ, charged to build up and strengthen the Church, which we are.
Hence the reason for our message series called, Building Together, during this stewardship season. It is time to focus on mission and what it means for us “to be church” in our little corner of the world, to make a difference here and now, to be a light to our neighbor’s feet, and to grow stronger as a church together. This is the kind of endeavor that takes all of us. We invite you to join us as we build together.
That might look like taking part in our clothing drive or joining a small group. It could also mean finding ways to give back—serving others and faithfully stewarding the gifts God has entrusted to you.
Next week for Community Sunday, we will be inviting you to some form of service here in our parish home: to serve in your place of worship, as an act of worship. There are opportunities for everyone. Members of our Hospitality Ministry will be at each door and in Nolan Hall during Community Sunday. We encourage you to stop by, enjoy a cup of coffee, and learn more about how you can share your time and talent. Bring your questions — we will gladly walk with you, answer anything you may be wondering, and help you discover how saying “Yes” to service deepens your worship.
Let’s be church together!
In Christ,
Fr. Wilson
