John Michael Talbot

Last night I was blessed with the opportunity to attend a John Michael Talbot concert at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Tacoma. My mom played CD's which included John Michael Talbot songs, so I vividly remember growing up to his songs and was looking forward to this concert.

However, the concert was more of a concert and presentation. It was a great presentation, but just not what I was expecting. I was looking forward to hearing Table of Plenty and The Cry of the Poor, none of which were part of his short song-list.

He did mentioned a concern of his (which is a concern of many) of the lack of engagement in our youth today, especially when it comes to the Mass. He said that if it were a denomination, a large number of people would consider themselves "non-practicing Catholics." He suggested the main way to bring folks back to the Church is through engaging (but not entertaining) liturgy through relatable and focused preaching and joy-filled music.

 

At the end of his concert and presentation, he invited the clergy present to come forward, and then the following happened, a moment which reminded me of Pope Francis' December interview where he prays for the gift of unity among all Christians:

 

 

 

(Video courtesy of the Northwest Catholic)

Priest Days

Last week was the annual gathering of priests from the Archdiocese, as they reflected on Forming Intentional Disciples with Sherry Weddell and Fr. Michael Fones, OP.

Pictures were posted to my Facebook page. Each day of the gathering was filled with various liturgies such as Morning Prayer, Office of the Dead for the Deceased Priests of the past year, Night Prayer with individual confessions, and of course Mass. A few highlights from this year's Priest Days include:

- a "Sing the Mass" optional session with ValLimar Jansen, which was attended by about 20+ priests, many of whom came out of the session more confident in their singing and chanting ability,

- a visit from Archbishop Brunett, currently in rehab from his stroke last September,

- and a great quote from the archbishop emeritus:

"When you have a stroke they tell you to 'look up' all the time to strengthen your core muscles again so you won't stay paralized. So I looked up, and right in my line of vision was a crucifix, and I realized that I could either join my suffering and pain to Christ... or become bitter."

Let us continue to pray for Archbishop Brunett in his recovery, that we too, may join our sufferings to Christ, and for all the priests of the Archdiocese of Seattle.