Monday June 1, 2009

The Fatima Shrine Bible Study under the direction and guidance of Father Peter Calabrese, CRSP continued its study of St. Paul's Letter to the Thessalonians. During the June 1st meeting Chapter Three of the Letter was discussed. Father Peter brought to our attention that this is the wordy section of the letter and that it is very easy to get lost within the text of the letter. St. Paul is very pastoral in this letter and he shows us his concern for the Thessalonians. St. Paul is very much aware that moving into the Christian faith will involve suffering at the hands of pagan compatriots. The world at the time of Saint Paul was caught up in various types of evil. St. Paul reminds us that we all struggle to bring about holiness at the beginning of our faith walk. Father Peter brought up the point that it may difficult to remain on track.

St. Paul feels that his work may be vain. St. Paul is very much concerned about a pastoral model for the Thessalonians. He is happy with their progress and is giving them a sense of blessing. Paul wants them to abound in the love of God and he reminds each of us that our bond in Christ needs to be one of the primary bonds that we have in our lives. St. Paul wants to establish unity in and through Christ. St. Paul speaks very positively about this.