"In my experience, nothing creates a better environment for a
great conversation than time shared in the kitchen." - Fr. Leo
March's MYC meeting included a presentation on a recent mission held at Our Lady of Lourdes. Angela Augustine led a discussion about Fr. Leo Patalinghug's Grace Before Meals, a program designed to bring families closer to each other, and to God, through the making and sharing of meals. Angela outlined the underpinnings of Fr. Leo's three presentations - The Call to Sainthood, Mary's Role in Our Faith, and The Importance of Prayer. On the first night of the mission, Fr. Leo reminded us all that while our idea of what a saint is, does, or looks like might be radically different than how we view ourselves, we are all nonetheless called to sainthood in a very real way. He encouraged us all to be proud and open about our Catholic faith, especially in a time when it is so misunderstood and misinterpretted by others. Not only should we know what we believe, but we should embrace and reveal it to others in public settings. Fr. Leo pointed out that this could be as simple as making the Sign of the Cross when out to dinner with our families, rather than simply saying the Blessing without doing so, or even worse, omitting the Blessing alltogether!
The second evening of the Grace Before Meals mission revolved around a discussion of Mary as our Spiritual Mother, Intercessor, and Mediatrix. Perhaps nothing is more misunderstood about Catholicism (both by Catholics and non-Catholics alike) than this particular aspect of our Faith. Fr. Leo employed the analogy that having a strong and vibrant relationship with Jesus's mother allows us access to the Son in ways only a Mother may provide. Praying the Rosary is like "looking through Jesus's baby album and scrapbooks;" we are led through His miracles, victories, struggles and ultimate Redemption in a very real way!
The final night of the mission dealt with the importance of Prayer. Using a culinary anacroynm, Fr. Leo shared the power of the PB&J - Patience, Balance, and Joy. Our prayer time should be focused and regular, and bring with it the joy of knowing Christ. Fr. Leo reminded us of the benefits of the Sacraments of Reconcilliation and the Eucharist in providing us with the ongoing grace needed to deepen our prayer life and relationship with God. Many thanks to Angela for sharing this information with the group! To learn more about Fr. Leo and Grace Before Meals, visit http://gracebeforemeals.com/.
- Maria File
