Our Koinonia

When my immediate or extended families get together, it brings a great joy, and a time for feasts. Most family members I have are scattered throughout the United States, all the way from the east coast to the west coast, and I live smack dab in the Midwest with two brothers in neighboring states. Coordinating reunions, birthdays, and holidays can get a little tricky at times, since we live so far apart.  Our modern technology has brought us closer together via skype, social networking, messaging, etc… but clearly not the same as the human touch. 

Recently my siblings and I joined together thoughts, along with a dear friend, and arranged a surprise birthday party for my aunt, who turned eighty years old on New Year’s Eve. She lives in Northeast Indiana, so traveling in snow and cold during that time of year could be quite an experience. The snow was not even a factor, but the extreme cold caused many stops along the way to refill our cups of cocoa and coffee. Not such a bad thing I guess?

Everyone finally arrived at their destinations and soon would be together to celebrate, as all her nieces and nephews were together for the first time in quite some time. Many stories were shared, along with tears of joy and laughter, for my aunt’s birthday. Between my two brothers, their wives, children and friends, we all managed to hide toward the back of the pizza joint and surprise her. Collectively deciding not to scream surprise, in fear she could possibly have a heart attack, we warmly walked out and gave her many hugs. My aunt was ecstatic to say the least, not because it was her birthday and she was surprised, but mainly because of happiness that extended well into the evening. Soon we would ring in the New Year and go our separate ways. The visit was quick, but it truly felt like a lifetime. It was a New Year’s Eve I will never forget.

Our ride back to Wisconsin (my wife and children sleeping in the van) allowed me the chance to reminisce about my family and the community I visited, which is such a part of my life. It also gave me a chance to contemplate what being with family and community really means to me.

I often think of the Holy Mass and all the preparation that goes along with it. A Priest prepares the weekly homily according to all the readings. Lectors practice enunciating the Word of God, so that parishioners understand fully what comes from the scriptures. Our musicians rehearse many hours in order to lead the parish in song and sing a joyful noise unto the Lord. Let us not forget the liturgists, Eucharistic ministers, ushers, hospitality greeters, etc… This is my Church family, my koinonia, and all who come together for a common purpose, celebrating Jesus Christ in the Mass, receiving Him in the Eucharist allowing Him to overflow our cups with love and joy. What an exciting feeling to know Christ is not only present in the Eucharist, but pleased that we are there to worship Him and give Him thanks for all He accomplishes. This is my community. A community which holds me accountable for coming to Church on Sundays, preparing for and participating in the Mass, and loving one another unconditionally

Whether planning the Holy Mass, a surprise birthday party, or anything that involves organizing an event, we are the Body of Christ called to be His children, sharing in His love, proclaiming the good news and passing along a faith that is forever. Amen!