Jesuit On The Reign Of God

Talks explore God's reign

Graeme Morton
Calgary Herald
Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Father Max Oliva says he's been fascinated by the concept of the reign of God for years. The Jesuit priest, author of five books and retreat leader will share that passion with Calgarians this weekend during the two-day Emmaus Lectures, set for the FCJ Centre, 219 19th Ave. S.W. Oliva is calling his talks The Already and the Not Yet, emphasizing the different levels of meaning that can be applied to the understanding of God's kingdom. "Is it a place or is it a state of mind and spirit?,"

Oliva asks. "Some people think the reign of God only refers to the end time. But Jesus inaugurated the kingdom of God in his person and we are in an interim period."

The task of worshippers, Oliva says, is to thoughtfully examine the positive role they can play in furthering God's reign. That can be embodied in prayer and by actions that promote a more just, compassionate society. "We're living in an uncertain time and world where hope is needed in all kinds of situations," says Oliva. "People are asking where is the reign of God in all this? But God does not reign over us unless we agree to let it happen," he adds. The final session of Oliva's lecture series will focus on exploring a number of modes of prayer and their inextricable connection to action.

"Prayer and action are like a circle -- one leads to the next. I'm reminded that Mother Teresa and her sisters always engaged in an hour of prayer before they headed out to care for the throngs of the needy,"

Oliva says. The Emmaus lectures are held in the early days of Lent to help worshippers participate more fully in the 40-day liturgical season. Oliva's talks are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday and 9:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. on Saturday. Call 228-4215 for more information or to register.
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