This was in the bulletin a couple of weeks ago; many commented on it and now that we are at July 4th Weekend, I figured it was worth a rerun!
Dear Friends,
Every summer, our little island fills with people looking for rest, relaxation, and perhaps the perfect lobster roll. As Catholics, we’re invited to find something even better: a little rest for our souls. So here is a Top Ten Ways (my suggestions) to Have a Catholic Summer on Nantucket:
- Everyone comes to Nantucket with sunscreen. How about a little “sin screen” for your soul? You’ve packed a lot to come here—why not unpack a few sins while you’re here? The Sacrament of Reconciliation is the perfect way to travel a little lighter and let God’s mercy shine through.
- Trade five minutes of scrolling on your phone for five minutes of prayer. The fish can wait. Instagram can wait. God has been waiting all along.
- Walk one of our beautiful beaches and remember that the same God who created the ocean knows every grain of sand…and every worry in your heart.
- Eat ice cream. It’s summer. But perhaps don’t call it “gelato” just because you’re feeling fancy.
- If you have guests staying with you, practice the corporal works of mercy. Hospitality can be a holy thing. Patience with your guests may be an even holier thing.
- Don’t forget Sunday Mass. God gave us six days to enjoy Nantucket. Giving Him one hour back seems like a pretty good deal.
- Put down the phone during dinner. The people sitting across from you are more interesting than the people arguing on social media. Usually.
- Perform one random act of kindness each day. Hold the door. Let someone merge in traffic. Smile at a stranger. Tip generously. Heaven notices the little things.
- Watch a sunset. Then thank God for it. The most beautiful view on Nantucket is still just a small reflection of the beauty of its Creator.
And the number one way to have a Catholic summer on Nantucket…
- Remember that vacation is not an escape from God but an opportunity to spend more time with Him. Swim in the ocean. Ride your bike. Enjoy your family and friends. Laugh often. Pray daily. Come to Mass. Receive the Eucharist. For the best souvenir you’ll take home from Nantucket won’t fit in a suitcase. It will be a heart a little lighter, a soul a little stronger, and the quiet assurance that God has been walking with you all summer long.
Have a blessed and joyful summer!
Fr. John
Bonus Tip: If you find yourself stuck in traffic behind a Jeep, a bicycle, a delivery truck, and three tourists trying to figure out where the Juice Bar is, consider it an unexpected opportunity to practice Christian patience. Some saints had deserts. We have downtown Nantucket in July and August!
