by: Deacon Paul Rooney (deaconpaul@cox.net)
Third Sunday of Lent
(Cycle “A" – February 27, 2005)

Q. 308: St. John always speaks his spiritual message in symbols and images. How does the story of the “Woman at the Well” speak to us today [Jn 4:5-42]?

A. 308: The story of the “Woman at the Well” is the story of everyone’s faith journey. It is especially relevant to the RCIA journey of enlightenment, progressing from initial Inquirers, then to the formation of Catechumens, and finally to a Profession of Faith and Baptism into membership in the Body of Christ. Also, in our five-week “Returning Catholics” program at our parish, at one point we plant seeds in a pot, and then if they are properly nourished with water, they will sprout and grow strongly and rapidly. The visual message we are trying to convey is allegorical. It is a reminder that we have all been damaged on our journey of faith; we have all made bad decisions at one time or another, and we all need tender love and care and mercy. If we turn to the right source, and “re-root” ourselves in this true source of life, we will receive the proper “faith nourishment” and growth can resume.

Water from deep wells can provide temporary relief from physical thirst. However, we have an even deeper thirst, a thirst for eternal truth and eternal life. That kind of thirst can only be quenched by the author of truth and life, the living God who revealed himself to us through his Son, Jesus Christ. This “living water” is pure gift, and always involves an encounter with Christ which demands humility and courage. We need the courage to face our selves, to ask the right questions, to listen to the Lord’s answers, and then have the humility to make the needed course corrections. Then we become enabled to participate fully in His mission, and share the Good News of the “living waters” that bring us eternal life.

Know Your Catechism! The “gift of God” is sanctifying grace that God gives freely to us at our Baptism (CCC #1999) – it is Christ himself. Thirst for God can only be quenched by God himself (CCC #2557). Christ alone is the spiritual temple from which the source of living water springs forth (CCC #1179).

Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha