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A Note of Hope

Archdiocesen Historian Looks to the Future

(35th Anniversary 2007 Newsletter)

We conclude this evening on a note of hope, and we do this in an era plagued with global terrorism, wide-spread disdain for organized religion, and a torrent of scandals within the family of God’s people.

Now, while having only minimal credentials as an historian, and even less as a prophet, I do see glimmers of better days for the mud-splattered Catholic Church in the years ahead.

In the providence of Almighty God, three movements have come on the scene which I believe are destined to re-invigorate the Church as part of Christ’s assurance of being with his followers until the end of time.

The first is Opus Dei and such innovations as the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, which are rekindling the wonderful missionary and educational outreach of the Jesuits, Franciscans, and Dominicans of earlier centuries.

The second is the emergence of lay leaders who by word and example are quietly and forcefully telling the world about Christ in the 21st century. You have heard one of those this evening.

Finally, there is this small Catholic college movement of which Thomas Aquinas College was and is a pioneer. It is effectively preparing clergy, religious, and lay leaders for the next generation.

You good people here tonight are on the front line of this future because it is your treasure, your support, your prayers that are helping this trinity of events come alive.

As bystanders of these birth pangs of a new Catholic thrust into the modern world, we can identify in a certain sense with old Simeon, who, we are told, waited patiently for years for that marvelous day when the infant Jesus was presented in the temple. Perhaps we can close our gathering this evening by reciting his prayer: Lord, now let Your servant go in peace. Your word has been fulfilled. My own eyes have seen the salvation which You have prepared in the sight of every people, a light to reveal You to the nations and the glory of Your people. Amen.

-- 35th Anniversary 2007