A Reflection on Community, Sacrifice, and Trust in God

Today’s Mass readings invite us into a deep reflection on themes that are central to our faith journey: unity, sacrifice, and trust. Each reading brings a unique perspective that, when woven together, creates a comprehensive tapestry of what it means to live as a community of believers under God’s guidance.

In the First Reading from 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33, St. Paul addresses the Corinthians with a direct and challenging message about their conduct during the Lord’s Supper. This is not just a matter of etiquette but a deeper issue of respect for the sacrament and for one another. Paul’s message is one of correction but also of deep love, as he calls the community to align their practices with the true meaning of the Eucharist—a call to unity and remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice.

The Responsorial Psalm, Psalm 40:7-10, 17, brings us into a personal dialogue with God, where the Psalmist expresses his desire to do God’s will and his trust in God’s providence. It’s a song of obedience and faithfulness, reflecting the intimate relationship between the believer and the Creator. This psalm is a reminder that our actions and words should always seek to honor God’s will and that trust in His plan is foundational to our spiritual journey.

Finally, in the Gospel of Luke 7:1-10, we encounter the story of a Roman centurion whose remarkable faith in Jesus’ authority defies cultural boundaries. His recognition of Jesus’ power and his humility to request help for his servant show us that true faith transcends societal divisions. The centurion’s trust in Jesus’ mere word to heal his servant serves as a profound lesson on the nature of faith—faith that believes without seeing, that trusts without proof.

Together, these readings challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we fostering unity in our communities? Are we participating in the Eucharist with the reverence and respect it deserves? Are we truly trusting in God’s will, even when it requires us to step outside our comfort zones? Let’s dive deeper into each reading to explore these themes more fully and consider how we can apply them to our everyday lives.

First Reading – 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33

A Call to Unity and Reverence

The First Letter to the Corinthians was written by St. Paul around 53-54 AD, addressing a series of issues that were troubling the early Christian community in Corinth. Corinth was a prosperous, cosmopolitan city known for its diversity and, unfortunately, its moral laxity. The church in Corinth was not immune to the city’s divisive social dynamics, and issues like factionalism, sexual immorality, and the misuse of spiritual gifts had seeped into the community. Paul’s letter seeks to correct these behaviors by reorienting the community towards Christ’s teachings.

In the passage from 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33, Paul specifically addresses abuses related to the Lord’s Supper. The Eucharist, intended to be a sacred commemoration of Christ’s Last Supper, had degenerated into a divisive and disorderly event. Wealthier members of the community were bringing their own lavish meals and eating in excess, while poorer members were left hungry and marginalized. This behavior not only disrespected the sacred meal but also highlighted the social divisions that the Eucharist was meant to overcome. Paul’s admonition is a call to return to the true spirit of the Lord’s Supper, where all are equal at the table of the Lord, and Christ’s sacrifice is at the center.

1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Abuses at the Lord’s Supper
¹⁷ Now in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. ¹⁸ For, to begin with, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you; and to some extent I believe it. ¹⁹ Indeed, there have to be factions among you, for only so will it become clear who among you are genuine. ²⁰ When you come together, it is not really to eat the Lord’s supper. ²¹ For when the time comes to eat, each of you goes ahead with your own supper, and one goes hungry and another becomes drunk. ²² What! Do you not have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you show contempt for the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What should I say to you? Should I commend you? In this matter I do not commend you!

The Institution of the Lord’s Supper
²³ For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, ²⁴ and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” ²⁵ In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” ²⁶ For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

³³ So then, my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 17: “Now in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse.”

Paul begins with a direct and pointed rebuke, highlighting that their gatherings, which should be occasions of spiritual nourishment and community, are instead detrimental. This sets the tone for his corrective instructions, indicating that the Corinthian church’s behavior is far from what is expected of the followers of Christ. The emphasis here is on the impact of their actions—not just a failure to do good, but an active harm being done to the community’s spiritual health.

Verse 18: “For, to begin with, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you; and to some extent I believe it.”

Paul acknowledges the reports of divisions within the church. These divisions, likely along socioeconomic lines, are in direct conflict with the teachings of Christ, who came to unite all under God. The early Christian community was supposed to embody the unity and love that Christ preached, yet here, the Eucharistic celebration had become a reflection of the broader societal divides. The divisions disrupt the communal nature of the Eucharist, which is intended to be a sign of unity in the Body of Christ.

Verse 19: “Indeed, there have to be factions among you, for only so will it become clear who among you are genuine.”

While Paul does not approve of factions, he acknowledges that such divisions can serve to reveal the true character and commitment of individuals within the community. This is not an endorsement of division but a recognition that challenges and conflicts can serve as a test of faith, revealing those who are truly committed to living out the teachings of Christ. It is a reminder that authenticity in faith is often tested in the crucible of community life.

Verse 20-21: “When you come together, it is not really to eat the Lord’s supper. For when the time comes to eat, each of you goes ahead with your own supper, and one goes hungry and another becomes drunk.”

Paul criticizes the Corinthians for turning the sacred meal into a self-indulgent feast, where some overindulge while others go without. This behavior is antithetical to the nature of the Eucharist, which is a communal sharing in the body and blood of Christ. The Eucharist is meant to be a reflection of Christ’s self-giving love, yet the actions of the Corinthians display selfishness and disregard for their fellow believers. This misuse of the Lord’s Supper not only dishonors the sacrament but also deepens the divisions within the community.

Verse 22: “What! Do you not have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you show contempt for the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing?”

Paul’s indignation is clear as he chastises the Corinthians for their lack of reverence and charity. He reminds them that the Eucharist is not a common meal but a sacred act of worship. The behavior of those who indulge themselves while others suffer reflects a contempt not just for their fellow believers but for the very body of Christ, which the church represents. This lack of consideration and humility undermines the essence of the Eucharist, which calls for a recognition of Christ’s sacrifice and an expression of love for one another.

Verses 23-25: ” For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body that is for[a] you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.’”

Paul reminds the Corinthians of the words of Jesus at the Last Supper: “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me… This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” By recalling these words, Paul emphasizes the gravity and sacredness of the Eucharist. It is a re-presentation of Christ’s sacrifice, a new covenant established through His blood. The Eucharist is a call to remember, to participate in, and to proclaim the saving acts of Christ. This remembrance is not passive but an active participation in the mystery of faith.

Verse 26: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

The Eucharist is not merely a ritualistic act; it is a proclamation of Christ’s death and resurrection and a reminder of His promised return. It calls the faithful to live in a way that reflects the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice. Every celebration of the Eucharist is a call to bear witness to the Gospel, to live out the reality of Christ’s death and resurrection in our daily lives, and to maintain the hope of His return.

Verse 33: “So then, my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.”

Paul concludes with a practical instruction that embodies the essence of his message: respect and consideration for each other. Waiting for one another is a simple yet profound act that symbolizes the unity and love that should characterize the Christian community. It reflects the understanding that the Eucharist is not just about the individual’s relationship with God but also about the community’s relationship with one another. This mutual respect and patience are crucial for maintaining the unity of the Body of Christ.

Teachings and References

St. Augustine beautifully captures the transformative nature of the Eucharist, stating, “You receive what you are. You hear, ‘The Body of Christ,’ and you answer, ‘Amen.’ Be a member of Christ’s Body, then, so that your ‘Amen’ may be true.” This reflection challenges us to embody the unity and love that the Eucharist signifies. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1396) reinforces this, teaching that “The unity of the mystical body: the Eucharist makes the Church.” Through the Eucharist, we are called to become what we receive—one body in Christ, united in love and mission. This unity must be reflected in our actions, attitudes, and relationships within the community.

Reflection

Reflect on your own participation in the Eucharist. Are you approaching it with the reverence and unity that Paul describes? Consider how you can foster a deeper sense of community and respect within your parish. Perhaps this means reaching out to someone who is alone, being more mindful of how you contribute to the communal worship, or simply reflecting more deeply on the significance of the Eucharist in your personal life. The Eucharist is not just a personal encounter with Christ; it is also a call to unity with one another. Let this reflection guide your actions, so that your participation in the Eucharist becomes a true reflection of Christ’s love and sacrifice.

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 40:7-10, 17

A Song of Trust and Obedience

Psalm 40 is a psalm of David, reflecting a life of deep trust and obedience to God. It is both a song of thanksgiving for God’s deliverance and a declaration of commitment to follow His will. David’s life, filled with triumphs and trials, exemplifies the complexities of faith—the joy of divine favor and the humility required in moments of personal failure. This psalm captures the essence of a heart fully surrendered to God, recognizing that obedience to God’s will is the highest form of worship.

The psalm is part of a larger tradition of Hebrew poetry that emphasizes a personal relationship with God, characterized by trust, obedience, and proclamation of God’s deeds. David’s expressions in this psalm are not merely private reflections but are meant to be shared within the community, encouraging others to place their trust in God as well. His words resonate with anyone who has experienced God’s saving help and wishes to respond with a life dedicated to God’s purposes.

Psalm 40:7-10, 17
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

⁷ Then I said, “Here I am;
    in the scroll of the book it is written of me.
⁸ I delight to do your will, O my God;
    your law is within my heart.”
⁹ I have told the glad news of deliverance
    in the great congregation;
see, I have not restrained my lips,
    as you know, O Lord.
¹⁰ I have not hidden your saving help within my heart,
    I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation;
I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness
    from the great congregation.

¹⁷ As for me, I am poor and needy,
    but the Lord takes thought for me.
You are my help and my deliverer;
    do not delay, O my God.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 7: “Then I said, ‘Here I am; in the scroll of the book it is written of me.’”

David’s declaration, “Here I am,” is an expression of readiness and availability to fulfill God’s will. It echoes the responses of other biblical figures like Isaiah (Isaiah 6:8) and Samuel (1 Samuel 3:4), who also answered God’s call with willingness. The reference to “the scroll of the book” suggests a recognition that his life is part of a larger divine plan, recorded in God’s word. This verse highlights the idea that each person has a role to play in God’s story, and acknowledging that role is the first step toward living it out. It challenges us to consider our own readiness to respond to God’s call in our lives.

Verse 8: “I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.”

David’s delight in doing God’s will contrasts sharply with the often burdensome view of religious obligations. For David, God’s commands are not merely external rules but internalized values that guide his decisions and actions. This verse reflects the transformation that occurs when one’s heart is aligned with God’s purposes. The law of God is not just something to be followed; it is a source of joy and life. This mirrors the promise of the new covenant in Jeremiah 31:33, where God’s law is written on the hearts of His people. It invites us to see God’s will not as a constraint but as the path to true freedom and fulfillment.

Verses 9-10: “I have told the glad news of deliverance in the great congregation; see, I have not restrained my lips, as you know, O Lord. I have not hidden your saving help within my heart, I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation; I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness from the great congregation.”

David’s commitment to publicly proclaiming God’s deeds emphasizes the importance of testimony in the life of faith. His open declaration of God’s faithfulness and salvation serves as an encouragement to others in the community. This act of sharing is not just about personal gratitude but about building up the faith of the entire congregation. It reflects the communal nature of faith, where personal experiences of God’s goodness are meant to be shared for the edification of others. David’s example challenges us to be more vocal about our own experiences of God’s grace and to see our testimonies as vital to the spiritual health of the community.

Verse 17: “As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God.”

Despite his royal status, David humbly acknowledges his dependence on God. His description of himself as “poor and needy” reflects a spiritual poverty that recognizes the limitations of human strength and the absolute necessity of God’s intervention. This verse is a powerful reminder that regardless of our earthly status, we are all dependent on God’s mercy and help. David’s plea for God not to delay speaks to the urgency and vulnerability we often feel in times of trial. It is a cry of faith that trusts in God’s timing and provision, even when answers seem delayed.

Teachings and References

St. Teresa of Ávila, known for her deep spiritual insights, often spoke of the importance of surrendering to God’s will. She said, “Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you, all things are passing away: God never changes.” This echoes the trust expressed in Psalm 40, where David finds stability and security in God’s unchanging nature. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2563) further reflects this theme, teaching that “the heart is the dwelling place where I am, where I live; it is the place to which I withdraw.” This teaching emphasizes that the true measure of faith is found in the heart’s willingness to align itself with God’s will and to trust in His constant presence and support.

Reflection

Consider how often you turn to God in trust and obedience. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to delight in doing God’s will? Reflect on the moments when you have experienced God’s faithfulness, and think about how you can share those experiences to encourage others. A practical step might be to start each day with a prayer of surrender, asking God to guide your thoughts, words, and actions. Additionally, consider keeping a journal of answered prayers or moments when you felt God’s presence—these can serve as a personal reminder of God’s faithfulness and as a testimony to share with others. The Psalmist’s example invites us to live with a heart open to God’s will, trusting that His plans are always for our good.

Holy Gospel – Luke 7:1-10

Faith Beyond Boundaries

The Gospel of Luke is particularly attentive to themes of inclusivity, faith, and the breaking down of social and cultural barriers. In Luke 7:1-10, we encounter the story of a Roman centurion—a figure of authority and power within the Roman military, yet an outsider to the Jewish faith. The centurion’s interaction with Jesus takes place in Capernaum, a significant setting in Jesus’ ministry, known for its mixed population of Jews and Gentiles and for being a place where Jesus performed many miracles.

As a centurion, the man was part of the Roman occupying force in Israel, and thus he was seen as an oppressor by many. However, this centurion is depicted in a positive light, showing a deep respect for the Jewish people and a remarkable faith in Jesus’ power. His faith is not based on heritage or religious upbringing but on a recognition of Jesus’ authority and a humble trust in His word. This story challenges the boundaries of who is considered worthy of God’s grace and demonstrates that faith transcends cultural, social, and religious divisions.

Luke 7:1-10
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Jesus Heals a Centurion’s Servant
7 After Jesus had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. ² A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly, and who was ill and close to death. ³ When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave. ⁴ When they came to Jesus, they appealed to him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy of having you do this for him, ⁵ for he loves our people, and it is he who built our synagogue for us.” ⁶ And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; ⁷ therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed. ⁸ For I also am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and the slave does it.” ⁹ When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” ¹⁰ When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

Detailed Exegesis

Verses 1-2: “After Jesus had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly, and who was ill and close to death.”

The introduction to the centurion immediately sets him apart as a compassionate and caring individual. In a time when slaves were often viewed as disposable property, the centurion’s concern for his servant’s well-being reflects a character of empathy and respect. This compassion is a key trait that sets the stage for his interaction with Jesus and indicates that his request for help is motivated by genuine concern, not self-interest.

Verses 3-5: “When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave. When they came to Jesus, they appealed to him earnestly, saying, ‘He is worthy of having you do this for him, for he loves our people, and it is he who built our synagogue for us.’”

The centurion’s decision to send Jewish elders rather than approaching Jesus directly demonstrates his sensitivity to Jewish customs and his respect for their faith. By doing so, he acknowledges the boundaries that exist between them, while also seeking to bridge those divides through respect and humility. The Jewish elders vouch for the centurion, highlighting his support for the Jewish community, including his role in building their synagogue—a significant gesture that underscores his genuine respect and generosity towards the people he could easily have dismissed.

Verses 6-7: “And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, ‘Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed.’”

These verses reveal the centurion’s profound humility and extraordinary faith. Despite his authority and status, he does not consider himself worthy to host Jesus in his home. His statement, “But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed,” reflects a deep belief in Jesus’ power to heal, transcending the need for physical presence or ritual. This expression of faith is remarkable not only for its trust in Jesus but also for its understanding of spiritual authority, recognizing that Jesus’ word alone holds the power to heal and restore.

Verse 8: “For I also am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and the slave does it.”

The centurion draws on his own experience of authority to illustrate his understanding of Jesus’ divine authority. He recognizes that just as his orders are carried out without question, so too does Jesus’ command hold power over all creation, including illness. This insight reflects a profound recognition of the nature of authority and obedience, and the centurion applies this understanding to Jesus in a way that demonstrates both respect and confidence in His power.

Verses 9-10: “When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, ‘I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.’ When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.”

Jesus’ amazement at the centurion’s faith is significant, as it is one of the few times in the Gospels where Jesus is described as amazed. His commendation of the centurion’s faith—saying that it surpasses any He has found in Israel—challenges the expectations of those around Him. It underscores that faith is not confined to a particular group but is accessible to all who believe. The healing of the servant, performed without Jesus’ physical presence, reinforces the power of faith and the authority of Jesus’ word. This miracle serves as a powerful lesson on the universal nature of God’s grace and the accessibility of His healing power to all who trust in Him.

Teachings and References

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2610) emphasizes the role of faith in accessing God’s grace: “Jesus is saddened by the ‘lack of faith’ of his own neighbors and the ‘little faith’ of his own disciples, as opposed to the great faith of the Roman centurion and the Canaanite woman.” This teaching invites us to reflect on our own faith and trust in God’s power. Do we, like the centurion, believe that God’s word is enough? Are we willing to step beyond our own limitations and expectations to trust in God’s authority over our lives? The centurion’s example challenges us to cultivate a faith that is not limited by our circumstances but is expansive and inclusive, recognizing the boundless nature of God’s love and power.

Reflection

Reflect on the centurion’s faith and humility. Are there areas in your life where you are hesitant to trust God’s word fully? How can you develop a faith that confidently says, “Only speak the word”? Consider practical steps such as dedicating time each day to prayer, reading scripture, and reflecting on the ways God has been faithful in your life. Are there specific situations where you can practice stepping out in faith, trusting that God’s word is enough? Let the centurion’s example inspire you to deepen your trust in God’s authority, knowing that His power is not limited by our human expectations but is always available to those who believe.

Living Out the Message: A Call to Unity, Trust, and Humility

Today’s readings offer a profound call to action, inviting us to transform our understanding of faith into concrete steps in our daily lives. As we reflect on the messages of unity, trust, and humility woven throughout these passages, we are challenged to examine how we live out these virtues in our interactions with others, in our worship, and in our personal relationship with God.

From Paul’s exhortation in 1 Corinthians, we learn the importance of unity and reverence, particularly within our communities of faith. The Eucharist is not just a ritual; it is a living proclamation of Christ’s sacrifice and a profound act of communal worship that unites us as the Body of Christ. Paul’s challenge to the Corinthians—and to us—is to approach this sacred meal with the respect, inclusivity, and love it deserves. This means moving beyond superficial divisions and embracing the true spirit of the Eucharist, which calls us to be one in Christ. In our everyday lives, this unity can be fostered through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and intentional inclusion, especially towards those who may feel marginalized or overlooked within our communities. Are we willing to reach out and create spaces of belonging for everyone, reflecting the radical hospitality of Christ?

The Psalmist’s expression of delight in doing God’s will and his trust in God’s steadfast love remind us that true obedience is not burdensome but joyful. It is a response to the deep and abiding relationship we have with God—a relationship built on trust, surrender, and a recognition that God’s plans for us are always good. In a world that often values independence and self-reliance, the Psalmist’s words challenge us to embrace a different posture: one of humility and dependence on God. This requires us to surrender our own plans, fears, and uncertainties to God, trusting that He will guide us in the right path. It is an invitation to cultivate a prayerful life, where our daily decisions are aligned with God’s will, and where we seek His guidance in all things, big and small.

The Gospel story of the centurion’s faith stands as a powerful testimony that faith transcends all boundaries—cultural, social, and religious. The centurion’s humility, his recognition of Jesus’ authority, and his unwavering trust in Jesus’ word remind us that faith is not confined by external qualifications but is accessible to all who truly believe. His faith was not based on proximity or personal experience but on the recognition of Jesus’ divine authority and power. This challenges us to expand our own understanding of faith: to trust in God’s word even when we cannot see the outcome, to believe in His promises even when they seem distant, and to approach God with the humility of the centurion who acknowledged his own unworthiness yet trusted completely in Christ’s power to heal and save. Are there areas in your life where you need to step out in faith, trusting in God’s word above your own understanding or circumstances?

As we consider these lessons, let’s remember that living out the message of today’s readings requires more than just reflection; it demands action. It calls us to look beyond ourselves and our comfort zones, to actively seek unity within our communities, to trust in God’s will even when it is difficult, and to approach God with the humility and faith that says, “Lord, I am not worthy, but only say the word.”

May these readings inspire you to deepen your commitment to Christ, to live out your faith boldly, and to draw closer to God in all that you do. Let us move forward together, united in our mission to bring God’s love to the world, and always trusting that He will guide us every step of the way.

Engage with Us!

We invite you to share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below. How do these readings resonate with your current journey of faith? What steps will you take to deepen your relationship with God this week? Your insights and experiences can inspire and encourage others on their own spiritual journeys. Let’s build a community that reflects the unity, trust, and faith we are called to live out.

Reflection Questions:

1. 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33: How can you contribute to greater unity and reverence within your faith community? Are there specific actions you can take to foster inclusivity and respect, especially during communal worship?
2. Psalm 40:7-10, 17: What areas of your life require more trust in God’s plan? How can you better align your actions with His will? Consider practical steps such as regular prayer, meditation on scripture, or sharing your faith journey with others as ways to deepen your trust in God.
3. Luke 7:1-10: How does the centurion’s faith inspire you to trust in God’s word more deeply? Are there specific situations where you can practice stepping out in faith, trusting that God’s word is enough?

Let’s continue this journey together, growing in faith and community.

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