Play it Again...

Since I am a singer who can play the piano, when I heard the topic for this past week's Catholic Conversations, "Accompaniment," my first thought was music ministry. My keyboard skills land me in the category of accompanist rather than pianist. And if you ask any singer, they don't want a pianist accompanying them—rather, they value someone who understands their tempo and phrasing, who doesn't miss a beat if they come in too early, and who can offer suggestions and encouragement.

Maria Linganban and Bonnie Crocker offerred beautiful reflections on how they've experienced and shared this sense of accompaniment in ministries at St. Monica, so I encourage you to hear their stories: stmonica.net/conversations.

It is a powerful reminder that Jesus and the disciples accompanied each other: in faith, service and eventually to the cross. St. Monica strives to accompany you: individuals, families and even strangers to navigate not only the struggles of life, but the celebrations as well. As we approach the season of Lent which coincides with a process of parish communal discernment, I hope to renew my commitment to accompany each of our parishioners. If there is some small way that I can do that now—let me know. I'm happy to play it again...