I'm writing these words Monday evening. But I’m thinking about words I want to say and a homily I want to preach on Wednesday evening. I was asked to preach at the beginning of the St Ann Novena at St Ann’s parish. I was happy with the invitation. The image of Christ’s grandmother has long been a favorite of mine. I’ve joined in those prayers for many years, asking for her help. But, this year I stand before that congregation as part of a process that means change for all of us—our parishes, their parish.

There’s a phrase from St Paul that will be proclaimed in Wednesday’s reading: To God be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus. How do we do that? How do we give God glory in his church? In Christ Jesus?

I can’t help thinking about the two women we honor in these days: St Ann and her daughter, the Blessed Virgin. How did they give God glory? Certainly by seeking his will in surprising places. St Ann must have been astonished to conceive as an elderly woman. Before the archangel showed up, Mary had no inkling that her life would be the site for the unexpected miracle of the Incarnation. The God-directed moments of their lives led them to places they couldn’t foresee. But, they went—saying “yes” to God, magnifying God in their faith and action.

Maybe that’s our challenge as churches. We’re asked to change. Some of those changes will be small, others large. Some we’ll understand and we’ll be quick to say “yes”. Others will demand sacrifice. Let’s keep in mind our vocation as God’s Church: to give glory in the church and in Christ Jesus.