Evangelii Gaudium

By Sadie Smith

As we continue in the Sacred Heart Parish our study of the fabulous exhortation from Pope Francis, I never cease to be amazed at the way he is speaking to us TODAY. 
We have now reached Paragraph 87 and this is what he has written …
 
“Today, when the networks and means of human communication have made unprecedented advances, we sense the challenge of finding and sharing a “mystique” of living together, of mingling and encounter, of embracing and supporting one another, of stepping into this flood tide which, while chaotic, can become a genuine experience of fraternity, caravan of solidarity, a sacred pilgrimage. Greater possibilities for communication thus turn into greater possibilities for encounter and solidarity for everyone. If we were able to take this route, it would be so good, so soothing, so liberating and hope-filled! To go out of ourselves and to join others is healthy for us. To be self-enclosed is to taste the bitter poison of immanence and humanity will be worse for every selfish choice we make”.
 
What could be more relevant to us than this paragraph? Clearly the time has come for us to make greater use of social media and be more in contact with each other. We can no longer go it alone – we need the companionship and support of each other. Our humble contribution has the power to inspire and encourage. I suspect that every parish is having the same problems and communication between us will without doubt bring consolation and grace so that together we will find ways of closer encounter with Jesus and with the Holy Spirt we will be enabled to share the Joy of the Gospel.