Spiritual Autobiography - Part 5 - Personal Faith and Religion

My first experience of the presence of God was at Mass in the Newman Center at college. In that stark concrete building filled with other college students, I sensed His presence in the Eucharist. Since that time, I’ve discovered God in the coincidences in my life. Some of these things are just impossible without some divine prodding to make them happen.

Since I’ve been on this path towards becoming a seminarian, I’ve been praying the morning and evening prayers from the Divine Office most every day. I’ve been taking some time at night for quiet prayer, reflection on the day and giving thanks. I also participate in the Mass and other forms of group prayer with vigor.

I learn a lot about God from my spiritual directors, from my readings of Christian and Catholic books, from listening to peoples stories. I’ve been blessed with many wonderful examples of God’s love in the form of people in my life.

To me “church” is about the people gathered to worship God. It is not about the building, but the living Christ in each of us gathering to be one. I am blessed to be part of a very active parish. I have lent my skills to the RCIA program, Generations of Faith (Adult Education), Living with Christ, Cursillo, prison outreach (retreats, visits and Eucharistic services) and, of course, 35 years as a church musician (organist, choir member, cantor). I am a cradle Catholic and while I have had times where I went pretty rote, I never left the Church.

I’ve questioned some of the Church’s teachings, but never felt at odds with the Church. I frequently find that when I study the teaching, I get a better understanding of the Church’s position.

The Church does need to be a voice for good in the world. I have seen this done most effectively at the parish level with good and pastoral priests. It is unfortunate that in today’s world, proclamations from the Vatican are mostly ignored and ridiculed. Perhaps local growth and resurgence of the faith is the best approach.