This weekend, we hear a rather difficult parable: the corrupt steward who, nonetheless, is praised for his craftiness. One theory concerning the parable is that the steward takes money off the bill of his master’s clients, because his master had overcharged them. There wasn’t much the master could do but acknowledge that the steward was terribly clever.
Jesus muses that the children of light should be as smart about the things of the world as the children of darkness appear to be. And, in truth, the worldly know how to use things like money and influence better than we do. For example, Christians often believe it tacky or unholy to market the faith. Yet, the non-religious are very aware of the power of marketing. In fact, the world is a marketplace of ideas. We should learn the best methods to reach people and spread the faith via the media. Money is another worldly thing the Church should know how to manage and use for the good of the Kingdom. We need more faithful Catholics in the world of finance and banking. Until we make it to heaven, money is going to be an essential item. Better that we use it more cleverly than the ungodly do.
ECUMENICAL PRAYERS SERVICE, MONDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 26
St. Eugene is hosting a joint prayer service with our Lutheran brethren for the intentions of the Ukrainian people. On Monday, September 26 at 7pm in the church, Lutherans and Catholics will gather to pray for peace. A collection will be taken up and split evenly between Catholic Relief Services and Lutheran World Relief.
All are welcomed to attend!
(In addition to serving as your pastor, I also serve as the Ecumenical and Interfaith Officer for the Archdiocese.)