The Hard Saying

This morning, St. John tells us that "many of the disciples of Jesus became disgruntled over his teaching that they must eat his body and drink his blood to have eternal life and turned away. (cf. Jn 6: 66). A sad moment, losing these former believers and friends.  Happily, Peter stands up an asks, "Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.. We are convinced and have come to believe that you are the Holy One of God." (Jn 6:68-69).  A strong statement from the man who would later deny Jesus three times, and still be the rock upon which the Church would be built.
We ourselves might have misgivings and doubts about some of the sayings of Jesus or teachings of the Church, especially these days when so many find them "hard sayings" and turn away.  Look at our empty Churches.  In the Archdiocese of Boston alone, 83% of Catholics no longer practice their faith, 10% attend Mass twice a year, on Christmas and Easter; only 7% attend Mass every week.
On this First Saturday of May, we recall Mary's injunction to pray and do penance for sinners...we might understand that as "those who have turned away".  Her motherly solicitation begs us to help her in her desire to have all return to the fold.  Next week, on Saturday, May 13th, we'll be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first apparition at Fatima, but it's not too late to put her words into action, for the need is still great..
Bro. Rene