I'll never forget some of the public celebrations I've had the privilege to participate in. I remember the dancing of colorfully dressed men in a remote mountain village in Mexico who led a procession from the town square into the Catholic Church for Mass. I recall the fireworks and public dancing outside the Cathedral in Arequipa, Peru for the celebration of the Patriot's Days. Most of all I reminisce about the many "sessions" we had during my visits to Ireland as a boy. These sessions were gatherings of musicians, singers, dancers, poets and story tellers that went on for hours of revelry. Have you had the chance to be part of a public celebration of joy lately?
These festivals may seem like something dating back to ancient cultures but there is something about being able to express public joy that we should never lose. It's somewhat sad that because we have so many electronic forms of private entertainment, we've almost lost the ability to be merry and lighthearted as a community. There are many instances when I spent time at my computer or TV and thought that I should just get out and be with people. We need to be more comfortable being joyful with one another.
The parish celebration of the feast of Saint Ambrose is on a Sunday this year (7 December). We will celebrate with one bilingual Mass at 11:30 am on that Sunday. After Mass we will have an assembly and food in Fannon Hall to publicly express our joy about being a community of faith-filled Catholics. If you would like to be part of planning the celebration please tell me. Be not afraid to show your joy!