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The take–and–give experience

One in a series of columns on evangelization. The Year of Evangelization officially began Dec. 2, 2007, with a proclamation by Bishop Thomas Wenski. The year will include many celebrations of faith, including the May 8-10 celebration, Festival of Faith, at the Orange County Convention Center. The year 2008 also marks the 40th anniversary of the Diocese of Orlando.

LAURA CURLL | SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA CATHOLIC

Published: 02.08.08

Bishop Wenski asks the faithful of the diocese to observe this year with gratitude and to share the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Everyone is familiar with the premise of “give and take.” It is commonly used to describe the dual role we play in a variety of relationships in our lives. Whether it is in the workplace, home or other environment where responsibility is carried, there exists some level of human expectation that as we reach out to others, there is also an awareness of something to be gained. The balance may very well lie in how much is given versus taken, and what makes that balance feasible.

From a spiritual standpoint, I’ve always thought of the “give and take” in reverse, as “take and give.” It started in my childhood, reading Scripture and developing a personal relationship with God. Almost instinctually, as I absorbed the Gospel message, I would feel compelled to share the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ with others. From the beginning, it seemed as natural as receiving a beautifully wrapped present on my birthday or underneath the Christmas tree. Upon opening, I would admire the gift and feel very blessed and grateful to receive it, but it was in sharing what the gift was with others that made it truly special. I wanted everyone around me to have that same take-and-give experience with their faith as I did, and I still do very much so.

When it comes to the Church, there exists an optimum opportunity to take and give, as well. Attending Mass, hearing the readings and homilies, engaging in prayer and receiving life sustenance in the Eucharist, I have developed an appreciation for all that can be taken in from this extraordinary experience. By participating in the liturgy through singing in the choir, reading from the lectionary and in other supportive roles, I’ve also gained the perspective of giving something back to Christ and his people in this setting. I look forward to continue giving to family, friends and my brothers and sisters in the broader community when the Mass is over and the parish doors close behind me. To go forth into the world and share the “Eternal Gift” with others is what makes it truly special.

Curll is a member of the Diocesan Pastoral Council and serves as chairwoman of the Evangelization Commission. She is a parishioner of Holy Family Parish in Orlando.

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The take–and–give experience

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