THE QUEST OF THE HEART:
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Bishop Peter J. Elliott
The steady journey towards the Personal Ordinariates certainly calls for much patience. These latter months of 2010 probably mark the most difficult stage of the journey. The destination will take a more concrete form next year. But, of course, at present people are asking many questions and seeking the answers. By carefully reading Anglicanorum Coetibus, the practical steps and the shape of these new communities can become clearer. But that is a cerebral approach, very important, but not the whole story. What is more important is the spiritual journey, the quest of the heart, a time for silence, stillness, prayerful discernment and calm reflection.
I know that many of those considering the generous offer of Pope Benedict now sense that they face a challenge. At critical moments in our lives as Christians, these challenges arise. This one might be framed through some personal questions.
Can I still cling to what is familiar, cherished and comfortable, when I know that it has already slipped from my grasp?
Can I stay where I would want to be, when I know that this is no longer a reality?
Can I remain imprisoned by sadness, when Our Lord is calling me to joyous freedom?
Can I take the risk and dare to "push out into the deep" as He once said his first disciples?
He is always here with us, the Lord of the Church, with that steady hand on the tiller, steering Peter’s Barque through this world’s storms. He is here, Jesus Our Saviour reaching out to each of us when, like Peter. we venture into waves and falter and sink. In the uncertain moments of this journey, that is what really matters – just to know he is here for us.
