St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Catholic Parish

  • Home
  • Prayer Request
  • Give
  • Contact Us
  • About Us
  • Get Involved
  • New Here
  • Events
  • Blog
  • Youth
Gloria Nolan

Springtime Souls

May 19, 2017 by Gloria Nolan

For me, there is nothing more satisfying than growing vegetables.  I suppose it comes from my deep agricultural roots.  I come from a long line of farmers, and I love rich, dark soil and lush, green plants.  I especially enjoy discovering the weekly, sometimes daily, growth of plants.  There is nothing more gratifying than walking out to a garden to see what we will have for dinner that day.  My garden is not perfect.  Sometimes the weeds can overtake an area.  If rain does not come, the plants might wilt and wither, but generally stay alive.  Occasionally a vegetable hidden under a leaf will grow to giant proportions.  (I have had zucchinis the size of small watermelons!)  But, in spite of my inadequacies, the garden produces much food and personal pleasure.  This marvelous season of spring touches every part of the senses.  The smell of the earth and spring rain, the feel of dirt and seeds, the sight of new sprouts and blossoms, the singing of the birds, and the sound of people, who, like hibernating bears, come out to once again delight in the bounty of God’s creation.

Spring is a Holy Spirit time.  Christ has come out of the tomb in resurrection and death is no more—very similar to the garden that has died in the cold and is resurrected in the spring.  When tended well, a garden thrives and produces much.  Weeds must be destroyed and the soil must be infused with rich, nourishing compost.  Isn’t it amazing that decaying, organic leaves and waste create the perfect balance for new life?

Our own souls are very much like a garden.  When we open ourselves up to the Spirit that works and moves in our lives, we thrive and produce much in the way of compassion and service to others.  The Spirit helps us find ways to weed out bad habits such as animosity, arrogance, and contempt so that true love and mercy for our families and neighbors may grow.  We offer up our sins, our failures, and our mistakes so that from them, we can learn to enjoy a richer, more hopeful life with God.

The Spirit remains with and in us.  Welcome the invitation!

Plant the Spirit of God in your hearts.  Nourish your soul with Prayer, the Word, and the Eucharist.  Weed out the negative thoughts and deeds that threaten to destroy you.  Prune the weak and thoughtless ways that harm you and others.  Reap the bounty of everlasting life.  Tend your garden well.

Blessings on your continued Easter journey!

Filed Under: Blog

From Facebook

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish

2 hours ago

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish

In our readings this weekend, we hear how everyone has to change when a new day dawns. A new day has also dawned on us recently.

First Reading — The Ninevites turn from their evil ways in response to Jonah’s message (Jonah 3:1-5, 10).
Psalm — Teach me your ways, O Lord (Psalm 25).
Second Reading — The world in its present form is passing away (1 Corinthians 7:29-31).
Gospel — Jesus proclaims, “Repent, and believe in the gospel.” The new disciples abandon their nets and follow him (Mark 1:14-20).

Prepare to hear God’s word this weekend by reading or listening to the readings beforehand by clicking the link.

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012421.cfm
... See MoreSee Less

Link image
Link image
Link image
Link image

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB

bible.usccb.org

View on Facebook
·Share

Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Linked InShare by Email

  • Likes: 1
  • Shares: 0
  • Comments: 0

Comment on Facebook

New to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton?

Whatever stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we invite you to join us.

Learn More

Mass Times

WEEKEND MASSES
Saturday: 4:15 p.m.
Sunday: 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

WEEKDAY MASSES
Monday: No Mass
Tuesday, 8:00 a.m.
Wednesday: 8:00 a.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m.
DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNION ONLY
Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Reconciliation
Saturdays from 3:00 to 3:40 p.m.

About us

Vision Our Patron Saint Sacraments Adoration Contact Us

Get Involved

Buildings & Grounds Dignity of Life Faith-Formation Committee Faith in Action Finance Council Human Resources Knights of Columbus Ministries Multi-Media Parish Life Committee Pastoral Council Stewardship Women's Guild Worship

New Here

Seeking Holiness Connect with Our Community

Youth and Education

Religious Education Youth Ministry Learning Institutions
ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON PARISH

2771 Oakwood Drive, Green Bay WI 54304

1-920-499-1546 ~ email: seas@seasgb.org

  • Facebook
  • Youtube
MENU
  • About Us
    • Vision
    • Adoration
    • Our Patron Saint
    • Office Hours
  • New Here
  • Get Involved
  • Youth and Education
  • Give
  • Online Prayer Request
  • Blog
  • Contact Us