Holy Summer!
Find fun in faith-filled trips and activities
Find fun in faith-filled trips and activities
It may not always feel like it with our blustery, “cold, low-60s” spring Florida days, but summer is quickly approaching. For many of us that may trigger the need to plan a summer vacation or determine how to handle summer with the kids. For those who seek to better understand, appreciate, and live out our faith, this is a perfect opportunity to consider how that faith can be embedded in our summer schedules and connect to the Jubilee Year of Hope.
As we begin to brainstorm ways to develop our Catholic faith, here are five helpful ideas.
It may not always feel like it with our blustery, “cold, low-60s” spring Florida days, but summer is quickly approaching. For many of us that may trigger the need to plan a summer vacation or determine how to handle summer with the kids. For those who seek to better understand, appreciate, and live out our faith, this is a perfect opportunity to consider how that faith can be embedded in our summer schedules and connect to the Jubilee Year of Hope.
As we begin to brainstorm ways to develop our Catholic faith, here are five helpful ideas.
Explore the Jubilee Year of Hope Resources
Start by spending 10 minutes on the Catholic Diocese of Saint Petersburg’s (DOSP) website, reading the “Jubilee Year of Hope” section. It provides insights into Pope Francis’ vision, explains the meaning of a Jubilee Year, and lists events like the Eucharistic Encounter in September, the One Million Acts of Mercy challenge, and pilgrimage opportunities. This foundation will help shape meaningful participation in the year ahead.
Take a Local Pilgrimage
Become “Pilgrims of Hope”, as Pope Francis asked. Visit the DOSP pilgrimage page and choose one or two sites (or all six) for a family pilgrimage. The site details each location and explains how to obtain a plenary indulgence. I’m fortunate to worship at the Benedictine Saint Leo Abbey Church, yet it took me five years to visit the stunning Sacred Heart Church in Tampa after moving here. These pilgrimages offer a special way to spend a Saturday — and offer an opportunity for reconciliation.
Get Teens Involved
Consider enrolling your teen in the Good Samaritan Project (GSP), a diocesan-run summer program at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in northern Pasco County. Participants spend a week serving others, worshiping alongside hundreds of peers, and growing in faith. The impact on young people navigating early adulthood is profound.
Attend the Eucharistic Encounter
OK, this one is after the summer break ends, but mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20th! This event will be more powerful than a Lightning playoff win (and takes place at the same venue, Amalie Arena), and you won’t want to miss it! You and your family can experience hope, community, and more, along with thousands of others. Reserve your spot at EucharisticEncounter.org
Commit to Daily Faith Practices
Catholicism calls us to ongoing conversion. Ask yourself: Do I pray daily? Am I consistent with Sunday Mass? Can I fit in a weekday Mass? When was my last confession? Who do I need to forgive and pray for? Would faith-based apps like Bible in a Year or Catechism in a Year help me grow?
As summer approaches we can be more intentional with how we spend our limited time and money as people of faith. As this Year of Hope progresses, how can we as individuals, families, and faith communities take advantage of the local, regional, and international opportunities to grow as disciples of Christ? It’s the best priority we can have this summer.
Dr. Randall Woodard is a professor of religion and theology at Saint Leo University. He is chair of the Theology and Religion Department and director of the graduate program in theology at Saint Leo as well as a coach and player for the university’s hockey team.
