The Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Parish in Scottsdale shared a reflection by Dr. Larry Fraher, Director of Faith Formation, entitled The Universal Call to Holiness, in its July 5 bulletin. 

“As citizens of the United States, no yearly holiday better commemorates the ideals of the nation’s founding than the 4th of July,” Fraher wrote. 

The day reminds us that we are blessed with rights as people and citizens of this nation and that we are free from oppression. 

Dr. Larry Fraher, Director of Faith Formation at the Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Parish in Scottsdale | LinkedIn

“The massive marble relief, the Universal Call to Holiness in the Basilica Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., stretches 52 feet over the main doors and is intended as a reminder to those leaving the basilica at the conclusion of Mass of each person’s responsibility to exercise the Baptismal duty that has been given, and in cooperation with God’s Grace, live a life of holiness,” Fraher wrote. 

All individuals who view the artwork are attracted to the image of the Holy Spirit, as the Blessed Virgin Mary and the the disciples invite viewers to behold this depiction of God’s love and desire that we cooperate with him. The artwork was commissioned by Cardinal James Hickey, who was with the Archdiocese of Washington in 1992. 

“Each of us who are baptized have certain rights and responsibilities, and each, by virtue of our Baptism is called to be holy,” Fraher wrote. “The Second Vatican Council named this principle, the 'Universal Call to Holiness.' At the time of the council (1962-65), this concept was particularly emphasized and incorporated into the document, Lumen Gentium (The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, #39 ff.).”

We are animated by the Holy Spirit at Confirmation and told to become holy. It is not a requirement to join a religious order or to study theology, but it is a call to follow in the footsteps of Christ. 

Even though the 4th of July may be a special day for us as Americans, Fraher said that our allegiance must always first rest in Christ. 

“We who are Catholic must remember that the Call to Holiness roots more deeply than the Declaration of Independence. It is a call that roots in a person, Jesus Christ, who is also God. He has come and called each. Will you answer the call?” Fraher wrote.