I understand the ongoing pain concerning the closing of local churches since 2008, the sting of which is all the stronger by lack of communication and dialogue from diocesan hierarchy. However, I would respectfully guard against hostility toward them personally or our church.

First and foremost, we all Christians, one body together and, as Christ directed — love one another, and love is the measure by which we shall be judged. Is love easy? Of course not.

Dorothy Day often quoted Father Zossima, “Love in action is a harsh and dreadful thing.” Why, we are called to love ALL, unconditionally. “You love God as much as the one you the love the least,” Father John Hugo.

Second, Christ himself tells us we have crosses to take up daily. But, in faith, “The pain is great, but very endurable, because he who gives us the burden, is also the one who helps us carry it,” Mary Ward. Church closings are the cross many have been given to bear, but we are to bear it in faith; that it is God’s will. We are given this Cross and, in faith, we always seek to discern and do his will. How are we to discern his will?

Our native servant of God Walter Ciszek succinctly has told us: It is what God puts before us each day: That is the path he has chosen for us.

His prayer of surrender is, in part: “Lord Jesus Christ, I ask the grace to accept the sadness in my heart as your will for me, in this moment. I offer it up in union with your sufferings, for those who are in deepest need of your redeeming grace. I commend myself to your father’s will, and I ask you to move on to the next task you have set for me.”

Do not give in to the negativity. In love, seek dialogue and mutual respect with those we may have conflict. Seeking a resolution for the common good of all.

If resisted, pray and continue to pray, trusting that in God’s time, his will, which is always for good, will be done, “Where there is no love, put love, and you will find love,” St. John of the Cross. Let us commit to build community, seeing and rejoicing in his presence each day.

God give you peace,

Dan Miscavige

Weatherly