Harvesting The Fruits of Contemplation

[I am honored to welcome Rev. Mr. Adolph Uryniak as my guest blogger today. Ordained to the permanent Diaconate in 2006, the good Deacon resides in New York State with his wife, Sue, their three sons and precious grandchildren. He fuels and sustains his passion to evangelize by spending much time each week before the Eucharistic Lord he loves and serves so well.] "The Thankless Job" by Deacon Adolph Uryniak Adoration Chapel-St. Agatha's Parish Luke's Gospel (17:5-10) prompts two thoughts on which to focus our attention. First, Jesus is asked by His apostles  'to increase their faith', to which He responds:  ‘If you had faith the size of a mustard seed…’ and then, a bit later, the admonishment “When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’” Faith, along with Hope and Love, that is Love in the sense of agape or unconditional love, form the Theological Virtues which a...

I have been blessed over the years to visit the Trappist community at the Abbey of the Genesee in Piffard, N.Y.   - to take time to enjoy the counsel, peace, quiet and solitude they offer. I have shared some of the spiritual insight I have been blessed to receive during my retreats there. Here is one example. But I have not been able to get there as often as I would like. In between visits, I have treasured a homily given by Father Justin Sheehan, OCSO in 2008. I received his permission to share it with you. May God use it to stir your hearts and souls. By the way, the next best thing to visiting this special place in person is to do so online. Missing their Monks' Bread and other delights? Fear not! Y ou can have them sent directly to your home with a click of a button or two . Check them out. They would appreciate your support.Now for Father's Homily: Silence and Solitude – Homily by Father Justin Sheehan, OCSO, Abbey at Genesee: August 10, 2008 Every h...