On Friday evening, the Jewish community will begin observing Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement. This significant occasion allows individuals to reflect on their actions, seek forgiveness, and engage in prayer and fasting.
This observance serves as an inspiration for everyone, urging us to recognize the need for reflection and repentance in our lives. The world, including our nation, needs such an approach, as do all of us personally.
As a priest with nearly 49 years of experience, I find it concerning that many Catholics have drifted away from the important practice of acknowledging sins and seeking forgiveness from God. In the past, rituals such as abstaining from meat every Friday and fasting during Lent were routine. However, these meaningful practices have largely been abandoned and now feel like mere memories.
The call for repentance transcends religious boundaries, as Americans of diverse faiths, or none at all, have historically observed days of repentance during challenging times. Yom Kippur highlights the crucial task of confessing one’s sins, as seen in the biblical story where the prophet Nathan confronted King David about his wrongdoings, leading to a moment of self-realization.
Before we can point fingers at others or societal issues—be it climate change, poverty, or systemic injustices—we must first acknowledge our own shortcomings. It is easy to blame external factors, but true courage lies in looking inward and admitting our own faults.
Mother Teresa famously expressed her hope for personal change with the simple reply, “Myself!” when asked what she wished to improve in the New Year.
I suggest adopting a practice known as the “examination of conscience,” which has waned in popularity. This reflection allows individuals to review their daily actions before sleep, prompting self-evaluation with questions about their behavior, honesty, respect for others, and overall integrity.
Imagine the impact if even one political leader had the humility to acknowledge their mistakes. Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia once humorously noted that when he made a mistake, it was a significant one.
Both Jews and Christians believe in a God who catalyzes transformation—from darkness to light, chaos to order, and hate to love. Embracing change starts with admitting the need for it.
Let us welcome Yom Kippur as a time for reflection and renewal.