Dear Parish Family,
 
Webster dictionary, designated authentic as the word of this Year, in a nod to use of artificial intelligence and the spread of misinformation on social media platforms.  For many of us, it is difficult to know what truly is authentic.  AI is everywhere on many different topics.  Did you ever comment on someone who is genuine and how refreshing it is to see the authentic or real person?
 
Authentic spirituality is free of elite influence.  We must submit our minds to accepting what Christ has taught us. In other words, conforming. oneself to the will of God, placing emphasis on the value of human life and the  importance of being guided by justice, morality and fairness amidst the challenges of modern society.
 
Let’s ask ourselves:  Am I authentic or do I present myself as what I perceive I am or what I want others to see? Authenticity is a conscious choice of how we want to live our lives.  First, we need to show up and be real, and as Fr Stanley often says “let our true self be seen.”
 
May our loving God help us to be who we truly are.
 Mary Jo