By Archbishop Thomas Wenski - The Archdiocese of Miami
Homily by Archbishop Thomas Wenski at St. Martha Church with Pastoral Center Staff on the occasion of Larry Zigmont's retirement. Nov. 13, 2015.
Photographer: MONICA LAUZURIQUE | FC
Archbishop Thomas Wenski preaches the homily.
The first reading from the Book of Wisdom details how God can be known from the works of his creation. Many people have perceived the presence of God in the beauty of a sunset; they have sensed his power as they looked at a waterfall in a canyon. Yet, many people do not: as the Book of Wisdom says: “from the good things seen (they) did not succeed in knowing him who is." Yet, as we prayed in the Psalm, “the Heavens proclaim the glory of God.”
In the Gospel reading, Jesus is nearing the end of his ministry and his tone can seem a bit foreboding. He speaks of the judgment to come – and in doing so urges us to be attentive to the signs of the times which, Jesus tells us, if ignored can lead to disaster.
But these Scriptures are not meant to fill us with fear. Our God is not a capricious God. Rather these words are timely advice to each one of us – not to be caught napping but to remain alert to meet the Lord. And, in reality, meeting the Lord is not something to be put off till the end of our lives. He wishes to encounter us, to meet us, to live with us every day and at every moment of every day. He wishes to look upon each of us through “eyes of mercy.” So, in that sense, the Gospel even when it speaks of God’s judgment is “good news” for those ready to meet him.
God gives us the grace to know him personally and to accept his lordship over our lives. He gives us the Holy Spirit to live each day for his Kingdom, and he grants us the grace to be ready to receive him when he comes. If we are ready now, we will be ready then. The people of Noah’s time ignored the Lord’s warning of judgment. They missed the boat – literally. Whose boat are we taking? The world’s boat to supposed success and happiness? Or God’s boat to heaven and true and lasting joy?
Photographer: MONICA LAUZURIQUE | FC
Mass of farewell at archdiocesan Pastoral Center for Larry Zigmont, who is retiring after 29 years of work in the Finance Office.
Photographer: MONICA LAUZURIQUE | FC
Larry Zigmont recalls his 29 years of service to the archdiocese at his retirement Mass.
The Gospel is “good news” if our hope is anchored in the Lord who will not disappoint. As Catholics we travel on Peter’s boat – the Church is likened to a boat that travels through turbulent seas. The Apostle Peter – and his successors – captain the ship. But all hands are important in bringing the ship safely to port.
This local Church, the Archdiocese of Miami, also had to and will continue to navigate turbulent seas. Your prayers for this captain are always appreciated. But today let me acknowledge that all hands are important in bringing this ship safely to port. Today, Larry Zigmont retires, and I guess we can say that for many, many years he has been working tirelessly in the engine room of the ship. The “back office” has kept this ship afloat even as we navigated some dangerous shoals. In thanking Larry today for his years of service, I also want to acknowledge all his colleagues in the “engine room,” the back office that is so important for the mission of this local Church. Larry, retirement means you can be as occupied as you wish without being preoccupied. Enjoy yourself – but remember Sister Elizabeth knows where you live.
For the rest of you, “all hands on deck!” Let’s not miss the boat. Jesus reminds us the Day of Judgment is coming. And for those ready – now and then – that’s Good News!
