Spring training inspires homilies, offers chances for evangelization

Published: 2008-03-26

ORLANDO, Fla. (CNS) -- With the spring training field for Major League Baseball's newest team right across the street, it's no wonder the sport would find its way into a homily at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Viera. "It was so funny. Our first Sunday here, the pastor (Father Lawrence M. Olszewski) compared the spirit of Lent with spring and spring training. He said how similar they are because it's a new start for everyone, including the ball club," said Washington Nationals spokesman John Dever. His team has played spring training games at Space Coast Stadium in Viera since its inaugural season in 2005. The Nationals were one of 18 major league teams that played their preseason games in five of Florida's seven dioceses this year. During spring training, the presence of the teams and their fans does more than inspire homilies and bolster attendance in nearby parishes. It offers opportunities for game-day fundraising and evangelization, and for allowing Catholic players to share their stories with schoolchildren and others. It also presents the challenge of meeting the spiritual needs of Catholic players, coaches and team staffers who have crushingly busy schedules.

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