august 2020
Church Rejuvenation Project on Track for Christmas
Renovation to Provide a Beautiful, Welcoming Worship Space
Inside 2
Living According to God’s Will Forming a Conscience and Moral Code
3 Understanding God’s Gift of Time
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Saving Lives and Providing Assistance to Women in Need: The Women’s Help Center of Jacksonville
6 The Faith Journey of
St. Genesius
7 Growing Closer to the
Marvels of God’s Word Through Our Parish Bible Studies
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hen all the work inside Our Lady Star of the Sea is completed, we will be stepping into a worship space that has undergone a rejuvenation — a space that will be comfortable, welcoming and beautiful. And “rejuvenation” is the term that describes the changes being made in our church. When we can return there again to celebrate Mass, how wonderful it will be to give glory to God! “It’s an opportunity that only comes once in a lifetime to do a renovation like this, bringing in elements to make it a more beautiful, more worshipful space,” says Msgr. Brennan. Work began on the rejuvenation These artist's renderings show how the church restoration work will appear upon completion. The right after Easter, and work is on track work is expected to be finished in time for Christmas. to be complete by Christmas. Plans already are being developed to hold a blessing ceremony with our bishop. The $6 million project has been developed to correct some longstanding problems with the church building itself. There were problems with the lighting, air conditioning, and sound system. In addition, the roof was leaking. Another issue is that of aesthetics — the ceiling had been painted brown in an apparent attempt to mask the beams. As a result, the dark space absorbed the light from the chandeliers. “We are taking this opportunity to fix them,” Msgr. Brennan says of these issues. The rejuvenations that are being made include moving the north and south entrances to bring them more in line with the aisles and improving traffic flow; redoing the sanctuary with a new altar and ambo; painting the ceiling a lighter color; installing new pews, floor and stained-glass windows. A
545 A1A North Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 (904) 285-2698│www.olsspvb.org
continued on back cover
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Living According to God’s Will Forming a Conscience and Moral Code
s Christians, it is important that we recognize the difference between right and wrong — both morally and ethically. Sometimes, though, this line can become blurred. Many situations we encounter in our lives include variables that can leave us internally conflicted and unsure of how to move forward in accordance with God’s will. So, how do we work through these moral conundrums? One way is to develop a solid Christian conscience. A moral conscience exists in the heart of every individual. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “When he listens to his conscience, the prudent man can hear God speaking. Conscience is a judgment of reason whereby the human person recognizes the moral quality of a concrete act that he is going to perform, is in the process of performing, or has already completed” (1777, 1778). Think of your conscience as the “angelic” version of yourself sitting on your shoulder, giving you sound advice. While everyone is blessed with a conscience, each individual has a responsibility to develop this conscience from the time they are young. Parents obviously play an important role in developing their children’s consciences. As the primary educators of their children on ethical issues and the Catholic faith, parents have a responsibility to teach virtue to their children and help them to avoid fear, selfishness and pride. As we grow older, we take on the
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lifelong challenge of continually forming our own consciences, and establishing a moral code that enables us to make the proper judgments. One valuable tool in forming a conscience is the practice of introspection. “It is important for every person to be sufficiently present to himself in order to hear and follow the voice of his conscience” (CCC 1779). In contemporary society, where there are so many distractions and routines, it is extremely important that we take the time to look inward and truly listen to what our inner voice is telling us. Another way to ensure we are developing a good moral code is by conforming to the mind of Christ. God the Father gave us Christ, physically present on this earth and recorded in Sacred Scripture, as the ultimate example of what to do and how to behave according to God’s will. In turn, when we act in loving imitation of Christ, we are certain to make practical judgments of conscience. The next time you are faced with a moral dilemma, take some quiet time to look inward, weigh the positive and negative outcomes, and listen to the voice of your conscience. Read the Gospels for examples of Christ’s teachings. By making this a regular practice, you will find that the voice of your conscience will come in louder and more clearly than you may have initially expected.
The next time you are faced with a moral dilemma, take some quiet time to look inward, weigh the positive and negative outcomes, and listen to the voice of your conscience. Read the Gospels for examples of Christ’s teachings. By making this a regular practice, you will find that the voice of your conscience will come in louder and more clearly than you may have initially expected.
A Letter from Our Pastor
Understanding God’s Gift of Time Dear Parishioners,
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ith the arrival of August, I find it hard to believe that summer is just about over! Of course, some of us are trying to squeeze in that last vacation, or just simply enjoying a “staycation” at home, soaking in the glorious summer season for a few more weeks. But for the most part, we’re starting to transition back into the swing of our fall routines. I once heard a quote from a psychologist who said time seems to pass more quickly as we get older because we’re experiencing fewer “firsts.” When we’re continually experiencing new things, time tends to stand still while we’re living them. After we’ve repeated those events numerous times, they don’t faze us much anymore — and before we know it, months have passed, seasons have changed, and it’s time to start the annual cycle again. Yet, we should not allow our time to be something that simply evades our grasp, trickling through our fingers. After all, time itself — every moment on this earth — is a gift from God. We each have 24 hours today and seven days this week to use however we please.
At the end of this summer, we have the opportunity to reflect on how we chose to use our time these last few months. Did we set aside time to pray? Have we allowed for time to serve others? Did we devote time each day to serve God? When we assess the use of our time, we must make a spiritual examination — “Have I been a good steward of the time given to me?” Maybe now is a good time to make some changes in our lives and get more involved. There is no better time than right now to seek out ways to serve God, our parish, and those around us. This is what it means to be a good steward! As the lazy days of summer give way to the routine and activity of fall, remember to keep God in your hearts, in your minds, and on your tongue as we continue our stewardship journey as a parish family. Please pray for me as I continue to pray for you all. Sincerely yours in Christ, Msgr. Keith Brennan Pastor
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Saving Lives and Providing Assistance to
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The Women’s Hel
ometimes it’s easy to tune out information that’s Such was the case for Our Lady Star of the Sea difficult or unpleasant. It’s easier to stay in our parishioner John Clegg. Although he had always comfortable world, giving little or no attention to things considered himself pro-life, John was startled when that don’t appear to directly affect us. But sometimes, another parishioner and our pastor at the time asked we’re forced out of our rosy lives, coming face to face him to serve as the coordinator of our Respect Life with the reality surrounding us. Ministry. It wasn’t long before something changed inside him. “That really expanded my knowledge quite dramatically about the life issue,” John says. “I was reading a lot of material and trying to make myself as knowledgeable as possible, and the more I read, the more I realized that the life issue is the human rights issue of our time, with well over a million innocent children dying in the womb, every year, in the United States.” Several years later, John was asked to serve on the board of the Women’s Help Center, a crisis pregnancy center, with three locations in Jacksonville. The Women’s Help Center has been serving women in Jacksonville for over 30 years, with their primary location downtown, on University Boulevard. The location is intentional, situated within half a mile of several downtown abortion clinics. Services offered at Women’s Help Center include free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, as well as material and financial support for pregnant mothers. “The young women who come in, they’re in a crisis,” John says. “They’re very fearful. Often, they don’t have the support of their boyfriend or family members. Sometimes it’s a situation where [someone] is coercing her to get the abortion, and sometimes it can be even Kelly had an appointment to abort Kyla, but instead chose life after worse than that — it can be a situation where domestic coming to Women’s Help Center. In addition to receiving counseling violence is involved. and ultrasounds, all of which were provided at no cost, Kelly received “We bring the young woman into a safe environment a tremendous amount of financial and material support. Women’s to chat with her about the difficulties and crisis she is Help Center, the Knights of Columbus, and St. Vincent de Paul facing,” he adds. “We’ll do anything we can to help and in Jacksonville Beach worked together to provide an apartment, furniture, clothing, food, and other support for Kelly and her family. support them in whatever difficulties they’re facing.”
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o Women in Need:
lp Center of Jacksonville Layla has two older siblings. Her mom, Porsha, who received help from Women’s Help Center with her f irst two pregnancies, had moved her family to another state when she became pregnant with Layla. Not knowing where to turn for help, she reached out to Women’s Help Center the night before her appointment to abort Layla. After a long night of lengthy phone conversations, Porsha decided to have her baby! Women’s Help Center connected Porsha with a pro-life pregnancy center near her home, who helped her f ind medical care and local support. Porsha and her family are doing well, and Porsha remains in contact with Women’s Help Center.
Those who work at the Women’s Help Center provide those they serve with the information necessary to help them make an informed decision. They also provide the support necessary, should a woman choose to continue her pregnancy and protect the life of her child. “We’re motivated by love of the mother and love of the child,” John says. “We don’t stand to gain anything. Most of us are giving our time, talent and treasure to save that life, and to save the woman from making a decision she might regret for the rest of her life.” The stories of lives that have been impacted by the work of Women’s Help Center are what keep the volunteers coming back. “We have young people coming back and saying to us, ‘My mom has told me the story of the difficult, unplanned pregnancy she had and I wouldn’t be here today without Women’s Help Center,’” John says. “It’s very rewarding.” Over the years, Our Lady Star of the Sea has played a significant role in the services provided to women in need at the Women’s Help Center. From parishioners
like John serving on the Board, to Executive Director Nancy Basham being a member of our parish, Women’s Help Center is grateful for our community’s investment. “Our Lady Star of the Sea has always had an incredible connection and influence with this ministry,” John says. “Women’s Help Center wouldn’t have flourished the way it has flourished, if it were not for our parish.” Parishioners are encouraged to support Women’s Help Center through prayer, and if they feel called, by volunteering or making a financial contribution. All are also invited to attend the annual Gala Fundraiser for Life, which will take place on Sept. 1, featuring pro-life speaker Candace Owens. “We always need prayer because young women are making these decisions every day,” John says. “We need prayers that they find peace when they go in, that they have the information to make an informed choice, and they do realize they’re carrying a human being. “When someone walks through our doors, I hope they feel some peace,” he adds. “Whatever their background, we’re here to help them.”
For more information on how you can become involved in supporting the ministry of the Women’s Help Center, whether financially or as a volunteer, please contact John Clegg at 904-273-6034 or H626462@aol.com. You can also learn more at www.whcjax.com. Tickets for the Gala Fundraiser for Life are $150 and must be purchased in advance. To purchase tickets, or for more information, please call 904-398-5143.
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St. Genesius
THE FAITH JOURNEY OF
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eing a performer and a comedian The opening night of the play may sound like a fun way to was a great success, with Emperor make a living. Diocletian in attendance. But at St. Genesius, an outstanding some point during the play, the Holy actor, playwright and comedian in Spirit touched Genesius. He was no late Imperial Rome, certainly did longer acting. have some fun for a while. But his “You fools, I wish to die a Christian,” career and life came to an abrupt Genesius said. When the other actors end when his work ultimately led asked him why, he said, “All my life I him to Christ. have been a fugitive, and only today Genesius was a comedian of some have I found God.” renown, but in the fourth century, Everyone, especially Emperor Christians were often discouraged Diocletian, laughed as Genesius spoke. from becoming actors because Genesius, standing in a pulpit designed ancient Roman comedy was highly to look like the goddess Venus, began sexual, crude and offensive. to preach to the audience. He told the In the year 303, Emperor crowd how he once hated Christians Diocletian launched what would be and enjoyed insulting them. He told the last great Roman persecution the crowd how he deserted his own against the Christian Church. So, family as a child because they were Genesius used the persecution as an Christians. opportunity to write a comedy about Christianity. He From there, Genesius addressed Diocletian, stating that thought it might attract the attention of the Emperor, he wrote the play to mock Christians, but had been converted increase his fame, and make him some money in the on the spot during the course of the play, by the power of the process. Holy Spirit. “I now know that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Genesius approached leaders of the Christian true God, the Light, the Truth and the Mercy of all who community in Rome and presented himself as a have received His gift of Baptism,” Genesius said. “O great catechumen seeking Baptism. He was then invited into Emperor, believe in these mysteries! I will teach you, and you a period of instruction in the faith, in order to learn the will know the Lord Jesus Christ is the true God.” beliefs of the Christians. He was particularly taken by Diocletian was furious and stopped the play, having the idea of Baptism. But at the time, he had no plans to the troupe arrested and beaten, while Genesius was convert to the faith – it was all just a part of his plan to condemned to torture. Through all of his sufferings, he research new material to use for his comedy. continued to confess that Jesus was God. When this But a strange thing happened to Genesius as he began failed to break his spirit, Diocletian ordered Genesius be to work on his play, which was to be a comedy on Baptism. beheaded. His final words were, “Our Lord Jesus Christ is As Genesius began teaching the other actors about God and we shall have life in His name.” Baptism, he began to believe, and a desire to be baptized St. Genesius is the patron of comedians and actors. His grew within his heart. feast day is Aug. 25.
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Marvels of God’s Word
GROWING CLOSER TO THE
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THROUGH OUR PARISH BIBLE STUDIES
o, where is the Holy Bible hanging around in your home? Is it covered with dust and sporting a “untouched” sort of look? Or is it next to your bedside, worn corners and all, just waiting to be opened the next chance you get? Thankfully, our parish has a number of studies that bring to life the sacred words within the pages of the Bible, so that your copy doesn’t have to be a “dust collector” anymore! “I have received so many blessings through these studies over the years,” says Barbara Jackson. “They have increased my understanding of the Holy Trinity and the people of God. The studies have been very lovingly received and attended by many. Those who attend love God’s Word, and they really care about each other as well.” Barbara’s study meets on Tuesdays following the 8:30 a.m. Mass in the Browning Center from September through May. It utilizes all thoroughly Catholic materials, such as a Catholic Bible, as well as enlightening Catholic commentaries and study guides written by theological scholars such as Dr. Scott Hahn and Jeff Cavins. Last year, the group undertook a fascinating study on the Book of Revelation. “I really wanted to cover the Book of Revelation because it is so powerful, and our world is going through such a difficult time,” Barbara says. “It is a wonderful, wonderful, book and those who read it, hear it and obey what it has to say will be blessed. It is so mysterious — filled with symbols and visions. It is such an appropriate book for today — for the past, present and future. It is really, really interesting!” In addition to profound studies of God’s Word, Barbara’s group also celebrates monthly birthday lunches, contributes donations as a group — such as to the Sisters of St. Joseph — and has gone on field trips to various local religious sites.
“We have really formed such a nice support system,” Barbara says. “It helps us grow in our faith, and put our best efforts back into serving the community around us.” A second study of interest takes place on Thursdays after the 8:30 a.m. Mass in the Browning Center. Facilitated by Patricia Henry and Cathy Van Brederode, it covers a broad range of faith topics, using a variety of materials. For example, the group has worked through a detailed study of the Mass by Bishop Robert Barron. “It is not just a Bible study, but we also cover other books as well,” Cathy says. “I really enjoy being part of it, because many of the same people have been coming to it for a long time, and we are all good friends.” A warm invitation is extended to all who desire to draw near to Christ through an inspiring encounter with His Word. “I would encourage all men and women of our parish to give one of the studies a try,” Barbara says. “All are welcome! It will give them such a wonderful experience. It will help them understand the Scriptures better, and allow them to meet fantastic people. Any level of participation is acceptable.”
If you would like more information on the studies available at our parish, please see the parish bulletin for details or contact the parish office at 904-285-2698. 7
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Church Rejuvenation Project on Track for Christmas continued from front cover
crucifix will be installed, as well, something the church has not had. When the work began, Masses were moved to the Parish Hall that itself had been freshened with new paint and carpet. “We never anticipated social distancing, so while at Christmas time we were able to put between 700 and 800 people in the hall, now we are down to 140 people,” Msgr. Brennan says. Baker Liturgical Arts from Connecticut is performing the work. “They are well-known for church renovation and restoration,” Msgr. Brennan says. Once the decision was made to proceed with the rejuvenation, a committee was formed to explore the companies to do the work. Baker Liturgical Arts had done the restoration work at our cathedral in St. Augustine.
“Fr. Tom Willis, the pastor, talked to our committee and recommended them highly,” Msgr. Brennan says. “They did a beautiful job.” Funding for the work has been generated by the parish itself with about $4 million raised so far. We are hoping to raise an additional $2.5 million through our building fund project: A Wave of Rejuvenation: Building a Blessing Together. “We’re trying to repeat the concept of stewardship, inviting the people to have a chance to get involved with their time, talent and treasure,” Msgr. Brennan says. As our community has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Msgr. Brennan is looking forward to the day when we can return to the church. He has been sending emails to parishioners with updates and photos of the progress being made. “The people are excited,” he says. “We’re encouraged by that.”
For Current Mass schedule, please visit our website at www.olsspvb.org.
