February 11. 2011

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES DEANERY — Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr celebrated Mass at the Church of the Resurrection in Bond Hill Feb. 6, his first visit to the parish since it was formed last August.

Deacon Royce Winters blesses the children of the parish. (CT PHOTOS/COLLEEN KELLEY )

Mildred Jeff serves as a lector during the Mass.

Resurrection’s choir sings during the Mass celebrated by Archbishop Schnurr.

During his homily, Archbishop Schnurr explained that Catholics are uniquely called by God to be the salt and light of the world. As salt enhances food, he said, faith, brings flavor to life, enriches and preserves it, keeping it vibrant and fresh. Catholics are also called to reflect God’s light, showing faith to others.    

 
“Each one of us is uniquely equipped by God to be salt of the earth and a beacon of light to the world,” the archbishop said. “Each has unique talents with which God has gifted us. This means there can be no ‘pinch hitting,’ I cannot substitute for you; you cannot substitute for me.

“There can be no looking to the left or right with the attitude that ‘someone else can do it,’” he continued. “You are unique in God’s eyes. He has a plan for you that is uniquely your own. That plan may not always be clear, but you can beat that you are called! In a world and in a church that is beset with so many challenges, you are to bring Jesus’ message of hope and triumph. You are the salt of the earth, the light of the world.”

In recognition of Black History Month, celebrated annually in February, the archbishop encouraged those present to learn more about black Catholics who have been recognized as saints. St. Augustine of Hippo, for example, was born in a small town in northern Africa in 354. He eventually became a priest, bishop, renowned theologian and founder of a religious order, the archbishop said.

Archbishop Schnurr also spoke of martyred Sts. Perpetua and Felicity, who were imprisoned in the early third century during the Roman persecution of Christians. While in prison, they continued to give witness to the faith and led Christians who were imprisoned.

“This is only a very brief glimpse into the significant spiritual legacy that our Black sisters and brothers have bequeathed to the church,” Archbishop Schnurr said. “Over the years, hundreds more have been ‘salt and light’ to the church and to the world.”

 
Resurrection Parish, which serves about 550 members, is located in the former St. Agnes Church. Four parishes  — St. Andrew in Avondale, St. Agnes, St. Mark in Evanston and St. Martin de Porres in Lincoln Heights — celebrated final Masses and closed last July. Parishioners came together Aug. 1 to celebrate the first Mass at the new parish.