Fall doesn’t technically begin until September 21, but let’s be honest, it already feels like it’s here… and it actually has a name: meteorological fall! Labor Day is behind us. Schools are back in session. The air is getting a little crisper. Pumpkin spice is everywhere. Students are even excited to be back at school, though I’m sure that will probably wear off soon.
There’s just something about these first few weeks of September that brings a little extra energy with them. We feel it at church too. Discipleship formation is starting up, new Bible studies are beginning, music ministries are getting back into full swing, and there are all kinds of opportunities to try something new. So, what are you going to do with that new energy?
Here are three ideas:
Join a Bible study. Our parishes have Bible studies starting throughout the year. At St. Isidore, a new study called Acts: The Spread of the Kingdom is beginning soon, exploring how the Gospel spread outward from Jerusalem and how the early Church began to take shape. There’s also a men’s Bible study that meets at 6:30 AM, with a virtual option for those heading to work. Those are just a couple of the opportunities available. Maybe this is the season to finally give one a try.
Join a music ministry. Our parishes have opportunities for just about every age. And don’t worry if you don’t think you’re qualified. Chances are, you already like to sing. Maybe it’s in the shower, in the car, or around the house when nobody’s listening. And if you’re at Mass, there’s a good chance you sing there too. So maybe you’d enjoy singing with other people. You already do it when nobody’s listening. Come see what happens when a whole bunch of us do it together.
Or just go outside. Maybe you’re not ready to commit to something new yet. That’s okay. The air is cooler, the colors are starting to change, and this is one of the best times of year to simply get outside. Grab that Pumpkin Spice Latte, take some of that new Fall energy with you, and spend a little time asking God what new possibilities he might be calling you toward.
