The right time to celebrate

When is the right time to celebrate?

Seems obvious does'nt it but you might be surprised with the worry and anxiety a number of people experience when wondering, "Should we celebrate this or that"? How big should we go? Is it worthy?

While some celebrations require a lot of planning, people will decide them selves if oyu let them.

We have just been to a farewell barbecue of a Parish Priest who has served in this parish for about 8 years and people were asked to bring a plate with the BBQ and tea/coffee/juice supplied. Well people just kept turning up over a period of time until the speeches and gifts were giving. As it was held on school grounds there were playgrounds and plenty of room for all.

The invitation was for anyone involved in the school or parish and surrounding parishes.

Because all brought something, there was more than enough and for more than just one helping too!

So to answer my question, as Jesus himself showed, anytime is the right time to celebrate when it brings people together, all walks of life, to contribute, and to share, to belong.

The other aspect was that no alcohol was needed for a wonderful warmth and open spirit to be present.

It reminds me of a Maori proverb (whakatauki) "Ko tau rourou, ko taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi". With your basket and my basket the people will be satisfied.

For as Jesus said, "where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there"

God bless

Pa Richard