John’s Gospel says: “I am the true vine and you are the branches.” Perhaps we’ve never considered our relationship with the Lord in these terms, but it points out the important “connection” that the Lord has with us and we have with him. He also says: “Remain in me, as I remain in you,” and “without me you can do nothing.” It is a very important “connection” that we have and any attempt to go off on our own might not prove to be wise. The purpose of our being “connected” with the Lord is that we may “bear fruit” and become his disciples. This Easter season reminds us of our becoming joined to the Lord Jesus. Every time that we are sprinkled with the Easter Water, we are reminded of our becoming part of the Body of Christ at Baptism. Let us be thankful for this blessing!
This Tuesday we continue with the 13 Tuesdays in preparation for the Feast of St. Anthony. It happens that this Tuesday, May 1, is also the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker. In 1955 Pope Pius XII established the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker, the same day as May Day or International Workers Day. The Holy Father wanted to emphasize the importance and dignity of work and the value of having a decent workplace. The day to day work of St. Joseph the carpenter serves as a model to workers. Come and celebrate St. Joseph!
-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.