Art is Always an Act of Service

Actor and writer Will Reynolds said, "What's my definition of an artist? An artist processes their lived experience in public—so that others may process their lived experience in private. Art is always an act of service." I had to read it and hear it a few times to absorb its profundity.

It's fitting for this weekend, when we celebrate World Communications Day, to reflect on that notion. One of my roles at this parish is to recognize that's what you all have done, are doing, and will do. Each of you should be empowered and have the capacity to be a storytelling artist. And that work helps people process their experiences in private and shapes how they view the world.

What was Jesus' main method of evangelization? Parables—stories. He didn't lead with theology or rubrics. Our Lord meets people where they are and brings the Gospel message into their lives in terms they can understand, feel, and accept. We should do the same.

Don't know where to start? Consider joining the MarCom (Marketing Communications) Summit on Saturday, June 10, 2023. It's a presentation and workshop to empower each of us who lead, prepare, and serve the dozens of ministries at St. Monica.

It will be practical, fun, and as always—an act of service.

Prayer for World Communications Day

May the Lord Jesus, the pure Word poured out from the heart of the Father, help us to make our communication clear, open, and heartfelt.

May the Lord Jesus, the Word made flesh, help us listen to the beating of hearts, rediscover ourselves as brothers and sisters, and disarm the hostility that divides us.

May the Lord Jesus, the Word of truth and love, help us speak the truth in charity so that we may feel like protectors of one another.