Holiness is a normal way of life for anyone who seeks to follow Christ, and it entails cultivating the relationship with God through daily prayer, acts of charity, and participating in the life of the Church. Holiness does not start when we receive the eucharist and end when we leave the church. Our holiness is to be universal and ordinary. It does not depend on our vocation, job, or lifestyle. Rather, the call to holiness is shared by all–to place one’s faith and trust in God, to receive Christ’s gifts that he offers through the Church by the power of the Holy Spirit, and to persevere in love and to fulfill God’s will.
Catherine Michaud, a Sister of St. Joseph of Concordia, Kansas, is a systematic theologian with a Sacred Licentiate in Theology (STL) and doctorate with specialties in ecclesiology and the theology of the Holy Spirit (pneumatology) from Jesuit universities. She also holds an M.A. in Spirituality with Jesuit training in spiritual direction and retreat work. For over 25 years she was a professor of theology and spirituality at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Briefly in the 70s she was the director of her religious congregation’s retreat center in Kansas. While she continues to be engaged in research, writing, and giving public lectures in her areas of specialty, Vatican Council II and the Holy Spirit, she has returned to her roles as spiritual director and retreat leader.
The Second Vatican Council's "Universal Call to Holiness" is a Roman Catholic teaching that all people are called to be holy, regardless of their state or walk of life. The call is based on Matthew 5:48, which says, "Be you therefore perfect, as also your heavenly Father is perfect". The Council translates this sentiment for today as, "The call to the fullness of Christian life and to the perfection of charity is made to all".
This is a free event. Please visit our donation page if you would like to make a contribution to Saint Thomas More in support of our ministries, including events like this. DONATE
Please contact Carol Arend, Adult Faith Formation Coordinator, at carend@morecommunity.org or call the parish office.