Feeling The Spirit - At a Union Meeting: By Joey McDermott

I expected a boring mid-week union meeting. Instead, I experienced a church service. I know you’re thinking, Joey Mac - why go to church on a Wednesday evening in mid-winter? It wasn't Ash Wednesday and The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe was on a Friday. The truth is, I felt the power of the holy spirit several times.  

Recent Transitions

The service (meeting) started with a remembrance of the dearly departed. Instead of "Rest in Peace," we said "Rest in Power." The Lector (A lesser union officer) then told us, "Don't mourn, organize." After the names were called out, we had a moment of silence. I ended the silence by crossing myself, “In the name of the father, the son and the holy spirit.”  Reminding myself of the resurrection and my ancestors who’ve moved on.  

It felt similar to the Catholic tradition of intentions, when a Mass is offered for the souls of the dead. Families request these for a loved one, often receiving a prayer card as a remembrance. The minister will say, “For the memory of Tommy Leopardo, we pray to the Lord…For the memory of Colleen McCaffrey, we pray to the Lord.” And then the congregation says, “Lord hear our prayer.” It’s a solemn moment of remembrance for past loved ones and friends. 

The Energy of Youth

I started to nod off, but then two energetic youth ministers (from the organizing department) skipped up to the pulpit.  They conspicuously wore quarter-zip sweaters, riding the coattails of teenage social media. "Alright! Who's excited to be here?" was met with silence and faint clapping. I felt their pain.

As teachers, we often manufacture our own excitement for a lesson, only to be rebutted by young people's refusal to laugh, smile or answer any questions.

The two millennials played off each other's dialogue, riffing like a Second City improv skit. Where one asks a rhetorical question not expecting an answer, but the other has the perfect response queued up. Their banter illuminated the dim pews of the chapel.  

Jesus is Dope

The youth minister vibes triggered memories of my Logan Square childhood. When street ministers wooed teenagers with, "Is Jesus your homeboy?" So cringe worthy!

Armitage Baptist's Inner City Impact offered basketball to recruit at-risk youth. Indiana Baptist offered yellow school buses, without parental consent for the hour trek to Hammond. Even the Mormons, with their bicycles and crisp white button ups, tried to sweet talk us. Despite all their persistent promises of a eternal salvation, teenage me risked damnation and resisted their calling.  

Singing Praise and Glory

The energetic duo led us in song, accompanied by synchronized clapping. Normally, I resist church clapping. My White Catholic tradition is devoid of spirited clapping.  Despite my mistrust of youth outreach ministers, the duo wore me down. The spirit moved me and I caught myself clapping, laughing to play it off.  Next thing you know - I’m singing aloud with all my heart, body and mind. Like something from the Lead Me Guide Me hymnal. 

Friends and Family Sunday

Next, a deacon came to the pulpit (One of the lesser union officers), you know the ones who make announcements and greet people. They asked the congregation, “Is anyone here for their first service?” We clapped as the newcomers stood to be acknowledged. Welcoming them, we prayed they would return for more of this Good News. It was like “Friends and Family Sunday," a clever tactic used by many of my Christian brothers and sisters. 

Pastor Speaks

Finally, Pastor (The Big Union Boss) appeared.  Oh boy, was it worth the wait! Pastor told us, “Pardon me, because today I’m exhausted, worn down” - especially from the arrows launched at them by the devil (MAGA, the Liberty Justice Center and the Illinois Policy Institute).  Pastor spoke in a hushed tone, with a frailty in their voice. They called for courage and strength by referencing our former pastor, seeking their guidance from the heavens above.  

The sermon gradually grew stronger and louder. Pastor warned us of the devil's wicked ways. They prophesized a bleak future, warned of an existential threat and evoked images of a biblical apocalypse. Pastor reminded us - we will be persecuted for our beliefs, "but don't allow the devil's tactics to interfere with our solidarity, because that is our strength."  

The Godfather's Resurrection

Pastor grew in strength and prowess, like when James Brown fell to the ground performing “Please, Please, Please.” He appears heart broken and distraught, only to dramatically rise from the dead and finish the song triumphantly. 

David vs Goliath

Pastor's resurrection was like Hulk Hogan being down-and-out, defeat imminent. Then, with the tremor of his hand, he extolled the crowd and a vision of hope appears. The "Hulkster" responds to the rabid crowd of fanatics. Energized, he garners the courage to defeat the

insurmountable strength of Andre "the Giant." 

Argentina Soccer Players

It was like an Argentine soccer player rolling in the grass in excruciating pain. Fans wondering, will they ever walk again? Only to get up, kick the winning goal and jump around in celebration. Pastor’s transformative powers were awe inspiring.   

Resistance is Futile

In every story, the outcome was predictable, but was still exulted by the inevitable triumph. I’ve had issues with our pastor, like when they banned me from Sunday services for speaking unkindly towards others. But, by the end of the sermon, I was clapping and cheering. Despite my inner resistance, Pastor's preaching made me a believer again, I was re-born.

Pastor could convince me that winter is warm, that fat meat ain't greasy and that Trump will Make America Great Again. Inspiring the unfaithful - that’s Pastor's super power. 

The Prodigal Daughter

Pastor finished by inviting a long lost missionary to the alter. Their triumphant return from the outside world inspired the Parish's senior citizens.  They fondly remembered her from calling the bingo games in the church basement.  

The wayward daughter made an appeal for the church’s special collection for the needy. It was just like Coming to America when Lisa says, “We love the money that jingles, but we prefer the money that folds.”  This time the missionary told us, “Any amount is appreciated and welcomed,” then told us to, "Resist the Earthly temptations of Starbucks coffee." 

Instead of passing a plate, the minister flashed a QR code to donate. I was so inspired I pulled out my phone and scanned it. It was a powerful temptation, because I truly hate QR codes.

Yeah, I know the church has disgruntled members who want to see a full audit of the church’s finances. But Pastor told us, "We trust you to see the books, anyone can make an appointment...because we are family." We were told, "Don't believe the heretics and Judases," one of whom allegedly has ties to billionaire tech bros. I have my own suspicions, but I suspended my own disbelief and eagerly donated. Isn’t that what the spirit is all about - sharing with those who have less!

The Reason for the Season

To all my fellow believers (and non-believers) the church is here for you.  You never know when the spirit might arrive and move you. Just like the father forgave the prodigal son, my heart was filled with appreciation and understanding for Pastor.  It was a brief moment, but it was there - I felt it.

Whether or not you believe, "Jesus is the reason for the season," enjoy the winter celebrations. Love your neighbor, forgive other's trespasses and make amends to anyone you’ve caused harm. Spend time with family, watch some NBA basketball, indulge in libations, eat too many cookies, cheat in spades, make others cry playing Monopoly and create fellowship with your loved ones.

I pray for my Pastor, and that they heed the call, "With great power, comes great responsibility." Thank you Pastor and to all my fellow believers, non-believers and union siblings - keep the faith!