Reflection from Bp. Robert Morneau

Do you ever wonder who decides what our monthly celebrations and observances should be? I mean, why is February “National Caffeine Addiction Month?” Then there is, in February, “Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month.” Add to this “Potato Lover’s Month” and “Bird Feeding Month.” Where do these come from?

I have no trouble with Lincoln’s birthday on Feb. 12^th and Washington’s birthday on February 22^nd. There is some logic here. More difficult is Feb. 2 (Groundhog Day) and Feb. 14 (Valentine Day).

Hopefully, this question of February celebrations and observances will not cause sleeplessness. One thing we can be assured of: February is another gift from God – the gift of time, to be used well. We need not be lovers of potatoes or watch birds, we need not be overly concerned about shopping carts or the groundhog appearance or not. But we are called to treasure the time God’s given us and to use it well. Come February 22^nd we begin again the season of Lent. February invites to set our eyes on the Easter mystery (April 8^th) and to come to this celebration with minds and hearts renewed.