One of the happy chores of a pastor is to thank those who make the parish work. The only reason we can operate is the generous giving of time, talent and treasure by the parishioners. I could (should?) thank all those have made our time each Sunday serve as a time of blessing. Usually, though, I use the big occasions during the year to call out those whose efforts led to the success of the day. I must confess that this always makes me a bit anxious because I inevitably will forget to mention someone who gave of themselves to the event. When I remember them afterwards (hindsight is 20/20) and apologize, they dismiss my oversight. “I didn’t do it for the recognition, Father.” That is exactly the thought Jesus expresses in the gospel. “When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.‘” But it’s still nice to thank people, yes? Maybe this is not just the pastor’s task but all of ours. Let’s go out of our way to thank the liturgical ministers, the hospitality committee, the greeters, the catechists, the social justice people, the grief support group, the parish council, the finance council, the OCIA, and all the others who make St. James the beautiful community that it is.
