Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

January 1st marks the beginning of the New Year on the calendar. July 1st starts the fiscal year for the state government, accounting and budgets, and October 1st begins the federal government’s accounting and budgeting.
 
But for me, September is the beginning of the year of change. Of course, change can occur at any time but in the rhythm of life, September appears to be the moment that change in lifestyles and positions takes place. It is in the air. We begin to feel the coolness in the weather. Even in our dress, sweaters and long-sleeved shirts appear. Sons and daughters say goodbye to parents and establish their lives in college. High school students assume new positions for the coming year. Timid first-year students are now experienced sophomores (in Greek, literally, “wise fools”). The juniors occupy places of leadership and seniors are at the top of the pyramid — at least for a year. The challenges of change confront us to mature and find how we can contribute, to make our mark.
 
In the life of the Church, September is also a time that challenges us to assess the past and implement our vision for the future good of the faithful. It is a time of change. Perhaps a new pastor or associate is now a visible part of the parish life. The school year begins with new teachers and sometimes even a new principal. What we embraced as a constant now gives way to a new norm for operating. Now in my 49th year as a priest, I can clearly testify to the fact that September presents a unique moment of change.
 
My assignment to my first parish was in the summer of 1975, yet the true life of the parish did not happen until September. School opened, organizations met, and planning occurred. The year before was assessed, and needed change incorporated. Every assignment in my years as a priest and bishop has presented a September of change — either dealing with loss going forward or the individuals or families being added.
 
In our personal spiritual life, September also challenges us to integrate the changes that confront us in family, work, or community. Nothing remains the same and what faced us the year before may still be present. However, we might be a step slower in our physical ability. There may be an increase in family responsibilities or couples may be experiencing an empty nest.
 
What helps us manage the September changes is the increase of our spiritual maturity. The one relationship that is a constant — no matter what confronts us — is our confidence that Jesus and His Church stand with us.
 
I would offer to you some suggestions to build spiritual maturity. Find a spiritual guide to confront the challenges. There are many resources, such as Bishop Robert Barron and his Word on Fire ministry, to incorporate the reading of Scripture into your daily life. Find a time for prayer. It may be just 10 minutes but commit to it daily. Recapture the Real Presence by adding an occasional daily Mass or time in adoration. There is always the Rosary, a great private prayer. Increasing the frequency of Reconciliation allows us to examine our lives. Seeking the support of a men’s or women’s Catholic group reinforces that we are not alone in our struggles.
 
Athletes will quickly tell you that staying in shape for game competition is necessary to perform at their best and an insurance against physical injury. By strengthening our spiritual life, we will respond at our best to September changes and avoid the hurt that accompanies our feeling of helplessness to confront the challenges.
 
September offers to us our ability to renew our commitment to the Lord Jesus as he instructs us to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Sincerely,

Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki

Archbishop of Milwaukee          

Note: This blog originally appeared as the September 10, 2024, "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.