July/August 2024 Four County Catholic
“Through leisure, man rediscovers himself and finds again his true face, his true self, created in the image and likeness of God.”
– Pope John Paul II, Laborem Exercens, 1981
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
As we enter summertime, synonymous with relaxation and leisure, it's important to reflect on the significance of these moments. Leisure is not merely a time to escape our responsibilities but a God-given opportunity to restore our spirits and strengthen our relationships. Just as the seasons change, bringing different rhythms and opportunities, so too do the seasons of our lives call us to different ways of engaging with the world and with God.
In the summer of 1975, during my first assignment as a priest, my pastor pointed out an ad in the local paper: “Golf pro giving six lessons for one dollar apiece.” He suggested it would be a good opportunity to get outside, learn a new skill, and bond with the community. I signed up and found myself among recently retired senior citizens. Despite the age gap, we bonded over our shared eagerness to learn.
At the final lesson, the pro set up a putting challenge: “If you make this putt, Father Cote, you’ll see me in church next Sunday.” With a prayer and steady hand, I made the shot. True to his word, the golf pro was in the pews that Sunday, showing me the power of leisure and recreation in building community and witnessing to our faith.
God’s goodness and care for us are evident in the cycles of nature and the rhythm of our lives. Each season offers unique blessings and opportunities for growth. Summer, with its longer days and warmer weather, invites us to step outside our routines and embrace the world in a more leisurely and contemplative manner. It’s a time to appreciate the beauty of creation, to nurture our relationships, and to find joy in simple pleasures.
The concept of leisure is deeply rooted in our faith tradition. In the Bible, we see Jesus taking time to withdraw from the crowds, to pray, and to rest. These moments of retreat were essential for Him to fulfill His mission. Likewise, we need times of rest and recreation to recharge our spirits and maintain our well-being. Leisure, when embraced in a healthy and purposeful way, can be a source of joy and renewal.
One way to use our leisure time for good is by engaging in activities that foster physical, mental, and spiritual health. This might include spending time in nature, reading, exercising, or participating in hobbies that bring us joy. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to connect with loved ones, strengthening our bonds through shared experiences and quality time together.
Additionally, leisure can be a time for spiritual growth. Taking a break from our busy schedules allows us to reflect on our lives, pray, and deepen our relationship with God. Consider setting aside time for a retreat, attending a spiritual workshop, or simply dedicating a few quiet moments each day to prayer and meditation. These practices can help us better understand God’s presence in our lives and His loving care for us.
In his book Leisure: The Basis of Culture, Catholic philosopher Josef Pieper wrote, “Leisure is the basis of culture. It allows us to see beyond the immediate, the useful, and the urgent to the eternal, the true, and the beautiful. Leisure is an attitude of the mind and a condition of the soul that fosters a capacity to perceive the reality of the world.”
As we enjoy the gifts of summer, let us also remember to be joyful in the Lord. St. Paul’s words to the Philippians resonate deeply: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, and when we approach our leisure with a heart full of gratitude and joy, we witness to the world the goodness of God.
May this summer be a time of rest, renewal, and rejoicing for all of us. Let us embrace leisure not just as a break from work but as a sacred time to grow closer to God, to our loved ones, and to ourselves. In doing so, we honor the rhythms of life that God has so lovingly designed for our well-being and happiness.
Yours in the peace of Christ,
Michael R. Cote
Bishop of Norwich