READY SET GOSPEL: UNITY!
Another week in the books and Father Max, prepares us for the sixth Sunday of the Easter season. It’s an exciting time in that the Lord is preparing the faithful for the promise and reception of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Here are the key themes of this week’s Ready Set Gospel:
Unity and the Augustinian Lens: Utilizing an "Augustinian lens," Fr. Max emphasizes that faith is not a solitary experience or a mere intellectual exercise. Instead, it is meant to be lived out with others in a "universal experience" characterized by unity (unitas).
Anniversary of Pope Leo: Today also marks the one-year anniversary of the election of Pope Leo, who was elected on May 8, 2025. Father Max highlights how Pope Leo's pontificate focuses on bringing Augustinian principles to the forefront of the church. (If you haven’t already read or subscribed, please see Fr. Max’s reflection in today’s Chasing Leo Substack!)
Vision for the Church: The vision presented for the church is one where members work together rather than existing in separate camps or competing ideologies. While not requiring total uniformity, it calls for a unity of spirit and heart, echoing St. Augustine's rule to be of "one mind and one heart intent upon God".
Preparation for Upcoming Feasts: Father Max closes by encouraging us all to ask for a renewal of the Holy Spirit as they prepare for the Ascension of Jesus and the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
