On Deacon’s Corner this week we have some great thoughts from Kevin Lopata, a member of St. Vincent Basilica Parish. Kevin was a teacher for 30 years for Blairsville Middle High School and is a great friend of mine. His love for teaching the kids was welcome to the next generations in a world that desperately needs people who care and want to grow the community in faith and love of this world. I think the more the faithful hear from others in our Catholic community, it will help grow the people of God.
Good day, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, I want to talk to you about two things that I love very much: golf and Catholicism.
Now, I know what you're thinking. Golf and Catholicism? What do those two things have to do with each other?
Well, as it turns out, quite a lot.
For one thing, both golf and Catholicism are all about discipline. In golf, you have to learn to control your emotions, your swing, and your mind. You must be able to focus on the task at hand, even when things are going wrong. And you have to be willing to practice, practice, practice.
The same is true of Catholicism. In order to live a good Catholic life, we must discipline ourselves to pray, to attend Mass, to go to confession, and to do good works. We have to learn to control our thoughts, our words, and our actions. And we must be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of our faith.
Another thing that golf and Catholicism have in common is that they're both about community. In golf, you're part of a team, whether it's a foursome or a tournament field. You must work together with your partners to achieve your goals. And it is essential to be supportive of each other, even when things don't go your way.
The same is true of the Catholic Church. We're all part of the Body of Christ, and we're called to support and love each other. We're called to pray for each other, to help each other in need, and to rejoice with each other in our successes.
Finally, both golf and Catholicism are about grace. In golf, there are times when you'll hit a bad shot, no matter how hard you try. But that's okay. Because in golf, there's always a mulligan. You can take a do-over.
The same is true of our Catholic faith. We're all sinners, and we'll all make mistakes. But that's okay. Because God is merciful, and He offers us forgiveness through the sacrament of confession.
So, there you have it. Golf and Catholicism. Two things that I love very much. And two things that have a lot in common.
So, next time you're on the golf course, or next time you're praying, remember these lessons. And remember that, whether you're playing golf or practicing your faith, you're not alone. God is always with you.
Peace,
Kevin Lopata