October 22.  As a Parish Pastoral Council they were asked to discuss the topic of “the signs of the times.”  The chairman introduced the topic reminding them that this was an obligation on the prophets already way back in the Old Testament. “Are we not the prophets of today?  There is a certain amount of risk and insight needed to read and interpret the signs of the times.  Watching  the weather is scientific but it can be merely observed or can be studied.  Economists too interpret what is going on by reading the signs of the times.  Politicians need to do so too. However, where the most problems lie is in interpersonal situations because relationships and people are so unpredictable.”  John added, “Then, looking into a situation is one thing, the hardest thing is to make the necessary changes; people do not want to change, and will resist change until it is forced on them.” 

Jesus said, “you know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but how do you not know how to interpret the present time?  And why do you not judge for yourselves what is right?  Luke 12:54-59.   Pope Francis: Lay people are the vast majority of the People of God. The ordained ministers are at their service. There has been a growing awareness of the identity and mission of the laity. Even if many are now involved in lay ministries, this involvement is not reflected in a greater penetration of Christian values in the social, political and economic sectors and the transformation of society. The formation of the laity and the evangelisation of professional and intellectual life represent a significant pastoral challenge.     EG 102.    Reflect, share, act and pray.   In the public domain where I work and play have I been family-eco-friendly?