Vibrant Overuse?
 
A comment from John M. of the LC at Saturday's meeting led me to ponder his 
thought that the word "vibrant" has been overused in the context of several 
"parishes in jeopardy" describing themselves. I suppose it has a slightly 
different meaning in each situation, but for us at Sacred Heart here are my 
thoughts about its meaning. There are 20 meanings of vibrant in my mind, as 
it pertains to Sacred Heart in Lexington. And the upshot is that they make 
us unique in a way not to be disposed of lightly.
 
Dynamic: Having the motivation, means, character and energy to put faith 
into action. Active: Having the programs, flexibility, human capital and 
leaders to make those programs function. Industrious: Motivated to make 
ideas become actions. Energetic: With a very large proportion of active 
parishioners, and a very large portion of very active parishioners.
 
Graceful: Nebulous for many perhaps, but for those sensitive to it, a 
palpable feeling and an atmosphere of calm strength, as would be generated 
by a deep faith. Welcoming: A spiritual and social quality that makes 
strangers feel comfortable. Intimate: A smaller church building that seems 
to embrace rather than just contain it congregation and services. Spirited: 
Responsive to any and all efforts on behalf of faith.
 
Effectual: Characterized by goal-oriented programs seeking a tangible 
result. Valuable: A final refuge for many seeking a parish where they can 
heal, or grow, or serve, or find community; contribute, and receive as 
needed. Contributive: Generously giving to local, regional, national and 
international enterprise that serves the Lord's purposes.
 
Prosperous: Growing, successful, productive and thriving in all aspects of 
pastoral life. Competent: With a talent base (staff and lay) and utilized 
talent a level that rivals any parish anywhere. Capable: Able and adept in 
every aspect of pastoral work. Accomplished: With a history, present and a 
future plans for of outstanding work and performance. Robust: Sound and 
healthy, even in the midst of a life-threatening disturbance.
 
Unique has really only one definition: "one of a kind". In these days of 
sensitivity for unique entities of virtually any ilk, those discerning 
enough to see the things that deserve preservation within those creations 
are only those persons with a broad enough perspective to understand human 
need. For me, having studied this parish intensely for six months and 
diligently for the previous 13 years, here is my definition of its 
uniqueness, as it befits the current situation.
 
Unique: Due to its subscription by so many, often among the more active of 
its members, from outside its boundaries, and due to the extraordinary 
history of its long-term members, transplantation of its roots and its 
qualities, produces a highly problematic undertaking.
 
Frank B.