Nearly 40 new members who joined the diocesan Heritage Society during the past year were recognized at the annual dinner and Mass. Auxiliary Bishop Michael Woost celebrated Mass for the group at St. Bernadette Church in Westlake on Nov. 18, followed by a dinner in Dempsey Hall.
“The readings were not chosen for this occasion, but they are very relevant,” Bishop Woost said, noting they were the readings for the day. The Gospel told the story of Zacchaeus the tax collector and how Jesus singled him out, deciding to visit his home. Tax collectors were unpopular, with many using unfair practices to enrich themselves.
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Zacchaeus, however, was a fair man who gave half of his goods to the poor and if he defrauded anyone, he more than repaid them. Bishop Woost said the story was not translated properly from the Greek. He anticipates a future copy of the readings will provide a more accurate translation.
“He’s already living a good life quietly, behind the scenes,” the bishop said of Zacchaeus. But the crowd doesn’t know that which is why they are confused and upset when Jesus announced he was visiting Zacchaeus’ house.
“He (Zacchaeus) does what he knows to be the right thing. That’s why he stands out, why this encounter matters,” the bishop added. “He is a true descendant of Abraham who is living out the covenant with God.”
Members of the Heritage Society are following Zacchaeus’ example when they share their goods to help carry on the faith, the bishop added.
Those in the society have included either their parish or a diocesan ministry in their estate plan and disclosed that information to the diocese, said Patrick Grace, executive director of the Catholic Community Foundation, Diocese of Cleveland, which oversees the society.
Andy Rebholz of St. John Neumann Parish in Strongsville and chair of the Catholic Community Foundation Board of Directors, thanked both the new and continuing Heritage Society members.
“Your generosity ensures our faith will continue. You are building a legacy of faith, hope and love in our diocese,” he added.
“By becoming a member of the Heritage Society, you allow us to inspire others to help build up God's kingdom here on earth,” Grace said, noting the society welcomed 52 new members this year, including Father Daniel Divis, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Lorain.
Click here to learn more about the Heritage Society. The Catholic Community Foundation supports the mission of the Diocese of Cleveland to provide for the spiritual, educational and charitable needs of people throughout Northeast Ohio. Learn more here.