The Way
This past week, I’ve been thinking a lot about “the way.” Saturday, my son and I were in Camden Yards for the unveiling of the Earl Weaver statue. For non-baseball fans, Earl Weaver was the Hall-of-Fame coach of the Baltimore Orioles in the 1960’s to the ‘80’s. Weaver, in his heyday, was very much a part of creating “the Oriole Way,” a pattern of behaviors and values taught throughout the whole organization, from the minor leagues on up, that helped to infuse the winning way of the Orioles.
Yesterday, of course, was the Fourth of July, a celebration of fireworks, hotdogs, and “the American Way” of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Recently, Newsweek had a cover story that suggested “more Americans have lost faith in the future.. (believing) that the American Dream is an illusion. Whether defined as the promise of a better future or as the endless opportunity to work hard and get ahead, fewer people than ever believe that the United States embodies that hope.”
It is important to remember that what we do and the manner we are doing it, communicate “a way.” In faith, that way is about discipleship. In ministry, it is the same, but with little variations. What is St. Mary, Annapolis Way of ministry? Does it differ from the St. Peter, Libertytown Way or the Archbishop Spalding Way? Our offices started working towards offering more definition of a way last January at the Bosco meeting, but it is still very much a work in progress.
For the past days since last weekend’s storm, many of us have been stumbling around in the dark awaiting the power to return to our homes and churches. Knowing the way has saved many a bruised leg.
NCCYM Scholarships
There are scholarship monies available to attend the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry in Orlando November 30 to December 2. Application forms can be found on the registration page and are due by September.
Young Church On the Move
This week finds St. John, Frederick; and Holy Family, Middletown up in Boston for Catholic Heart Workcamp. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish travels to Charlotte for workcamp as well. Keep all workcampers and conference goers in your prayers!
Georgina Farewell
There will be a Celebration for Georgina Vaca at Scott’s place in Catonsville at 7pm on July 12. If you want in on this, please just e-mail Scott for directions.
Office Closed
Throughout the summer, we are closed on Fridays. This is a move towards energy savings. Please know that the Center is closed today we well to repair some water pipes in the basement.
Web Links
> ROJO Apparel was in the office Tuesday. Every shirt they sell provides meals to hungry children in need. Consider them when next ordering conference/ workcamp gear.
> Have you caught the viral video where a high school graduation speaker told the young people “You’re Not Special?”
Continue along the way –
D. Scott Miller
