Dear Friends,
The people who choose to live in New England, and even those who have moved out of the area, often speak of their appreciation of the seasons. We have four of them. By most accounts, winter is the longest, and spring is the shortest. Many people share a favorite — which is summer!
The 20th century German philosopher, Josef Pieper, authored the definitive “work” on leisure. This short book is called Leisure:The Basis of Culture. God created us for good. He created leisure to be good for every child of His creation, even those more chronologically mature. Pieper suggested that leisure is only possible when we are at peace with ourselves. He pointed out that we tend “to overwork as a means of self-escape, as a way of trying to justify our existence.” He wrote that in 1949!
Friends, God gave us leisure. From the Creation Story forward, we are taught that it is good to rest. It is especially good to rest on the “day of rest”, Sunday; and, to rest in the caring arms of your immediate family, extended family, or our parish community. I invite you to set aside work, right-order your family life, and enjoy time together. God made us to live in harmony with one another, to see each person as Jesus among us. May He bless you with a safe and enjoyable summer.