The first time I heard the young Deacon Bill Senft preach the homily at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland, it was about the human nature of Jesus. He stated that there were times when Jesus felt “crabby” and tired. I had never heard anyone speak of the “crabby” Jesus. Of course, if we read the Gospels, it is pretty clear that Jesus could become frustrated when dealing with some who were unwilling to believe.
A 5 p.m. Mass April 11, Deacon Senft suggested that being a “doubting Thomas” is not such a bad thing. He discussed “forensic Christians” who need to deal with facts, and said that Catholics have many facts at our disposal: the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, the letters of Paul as well as books of the history of the time in which Jesus lived. I am normally underwhelmed by the younger generation, but it would be unwise to underestimate them.
These millennials are supportive of the Gospel message given renewed emphasis by Pope Francis. They are less constrained by the biases and prejudices of previous generations. I look forward to these young, thoughtful people taking up leadership roles.
Edward McCarey McDonnell
Baltimore
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