Dear Parishioners and Visitors:
Mike Cummings, Lector and Greeter during the winter months here at St. Joe’s, and a member of the New England Disabled Sports (NEDS) family, writes a weekly column for the bulletin at his hometown parish, St. Augustine Church in Andover, Massachusetts. From time to time, I like to share his theological musings in our parish bulletin as food for spiritual growth. Here are Mike’s thoughts on miracles and faith development:
Have you ever personally experienced a miracle? I have on a couple of occasions. Did you tell everyone you know that God interceded in your life? I didn’t. Putting aside the question of “why not?”, it is safe to say that miracles occur far more often than they are reported. In a way, they are like UFO sightings. They happen, but until recently were largely ignored. Surveys show that roughly 25% to 50% of people questioned in multiple countries say they have experienced a miracle. Often, they are related to health issues. Interestingly, about three-quarters of doctors say they believe in miracles. The online Miriam-Webster dictionary defines “miracle” as “an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs”. The online Oxford Dictionary defines it as “a surprising and welcome event that is not explicable by natural or scientific laws”. Ask your friend who is a “None” or an atheist how they personally account for miracles that are inexplicable by even the most passionately secular scientists.
With prayerful best wishes,
Fr. John Mahoney