Divine Word Catholic Church in Kirtland, Ohio shared a reflection from Rev. Dave Woost on the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time. 

“Twenty-one days from now we will enter the holy season. In the meantime, we are reminded that we need to be prepared,” Rev. Woost wrote.

We, as Americans, are often well-prepared, we are always looking ahead at what needs to be done and have a hard time being in the present. 

“We have to hold the tension between what we seek in the future without compromising the present moment. The five wise virgins understood this in its entirety. They knew the bridegroom was coming at some point. They understood future preparation would create this powerful moment of meeting the bridegroom when he comes,” Rev. Woost wrote. 

While the virgins prepared themselves in advance, they were also ready when the time was right. Those who failed to prepare early found that they were not able to greet the bridegroom in the moment that he did arrive. 

“We are to be like the five wise virgins waiting for the bridegroom. Jesus’ second coming is a moment not only to anticipate in the future, but to properly prepare so we do not forget this present moment,” Rev. Woost wrote. 

Rev. Woost reminded parishioners to keep donating to the Thanksgiving Food Collection through Friday, Nov. 20. Additionally, the Four Seasons Book Club is reading “Where is God When It Hurts” and the book will be discussed on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. 

The Adult Education group will begin meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 5 at 7 p.m, with the book “Rescued: The Unexpected and Extraordinary News of The Gospel,” via Zoom. 

Finally, as the season of Christmas arrives, the parish is offering Advent wreath kits for families to enjoy while keeping safe from the risks of COVID. 

“My prayer is that all of us can stay safe and healthy through these trying times,” Rev. Woost wrote.