I begin my column with the same hopeful words that ended my article about reconfiguration. It is old wisdom which says: "Renewal is normal." I watched a hint of life emerge in a young woman whose husband had suddenly died. Now a few years later a man is attracted to her. It is like the new green shoot of life in April.

As much as I might be worn down with the effects of reconfiguration, scandal, and white-washing of sins, these failings do not describe God's life among us. Each week for the past couple of months, I have met new people coming to Mass at Sacred Heart.

Since I am the pastor, new people tend to seek me out. They are "shoppiag around" for a parish. They want to see who and what we are. Well, I for one find this encouraging. They and you are giving me some life and hope in the midst of much difficulty. And so that wise phrase comes to mind, "Renewal is normal."

At the same time I have learned that one has to be looking for the new. Sometimes God pushes in our door when we do not want to be bothered at all, but most of the time, we have to be looking for new life. Over the years I have conducted instruction in the faith. Each fall a number of people with questions about God, the Church, and themselves have gathered together to consider what it means to believe. The formal name of this is "Catechumenate" or "R.C.I.A."

This column is an invitation to anyone who is interested in some discussion, study, and prayer about God, the Church, and us. There are usually ten to fifteen people at each meeting. We offer the program in Spanish (Sunday evenings) and in English (Saturday mornings). Last year 25 men and women were baptized and confirmed.

Some people join us because their children are coming to Catholic School. Other people have no prior religious connections, and they are looking for something to believe in. Other people have been Catholic all their lives, but never practiced their faith. Whatever your reason, come and see. Call me at (617) 325-3322, or e-mail me at sacredheartparish@ verizon.net.

For my part as a Catholic and a priest, I look forward to these gatherings to renew myself. These wonderful people test me with their questions and 'their insight in God. God does feed us in each other. Blessings and prayers for you as the fall season comes upon us.

Msgr. Frank Kelley