The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity invites us to contemplate a central mystery of our faith: God is one, and God is communion. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct, yet fully united—not by task or function, but by relationship. In this mystery, we find not only something to believe in, but a way of living to be embraced.

The Trinity teaches us that communion is not a concept to be explained, but a reality to be lived. It stands at the heart of the Church’s identity and calls each community to reflect that same relational dynamic—marked by openness, reciprocity, and shared purpose.

As the Second Vatican Council reminds us, the Church does not merely take inspiration from the Trinity—it flows from it. “The universal Church appears as a people made one with the unity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (Lumen Gentium, 4). This trinitarian origin reminds us that the Church is not built merely by our efforts, but is first a gift received from God and lived together.

In parish life, this reality takes shape through three key dimensions: actions, culture, and structure.

Our actions are the visible expressions of our faith: the sacraments we celebrate, the care we offer to those in need, the formation we provide, and the welcome we extend. These actions matter deeply. Yet when they are not rooted in communion, they risk becoming disconnected or reduced to routines that no longer bear fruit.

Our culture is less visible, but equally decisive. It shapes how we live those actions: how we communicate, how decisions are made, how people are received, how responsibilities are shared. Often, culture is found in the tone we use, the gestures we make, and the attitudes we bring to everyday situations. A healthy parish culture echoes the Trinitarian rhythm—not control or fragmentation, but mutual respect, attentiveness, and a disposition to walk alongside others.

The Church is not built on personal preferences or closed circles of affinity. It is a community of covenant—with God and with one another, in communion with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Our structure is how our shared life is sustained. It includes the way responsibilities are organized, ministries are supported, and collaboration is made possible. Structure, far from being a barrier to communion, can become an instrument of it—when it is shaped with care and discernment, it can support and sustain the human fabric of the parish.

At times, we may find ourselves speaking of “my ministry,” “my group,” or even “my Church.” While it is natural to feel a sense of belonging and care for what we help build, we

must also be careful not to confuse ownership with stewardship. The Church is not ours to possess. It is Christ’s. We are invited to serve within it, to build it up, and to walk within it—but always with the awareness that we are part of something greater than ourselves. Holding this in mind helps us remain open to others, attentive to the whole, and responsive to what the Spirit is doing beyond our own expectations.

When these three—actions, culture, and structure—are aligned and inspired by the life of the Trinity, a parish begins to breathe more freely. There is less tension, less isolation, less confusion. There is more clarity, more cooperation, and a renewed sense of purpose. As St. Paul reminds us:

“The body does not consist of one member but of many… If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” (1 Cor 12:14, 26–27)

Communion of this depth takes time to grow. It is not the product of programs alone, nor the result of isolated efforts. It matures gradually—through trust, shared responsibility, and a spirit of prayer. It requires patience and a sincere willingness to grow together.

As we celebrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity, may we be renewed in our desire to live not apart or in fragments, but as a people walking together—in faith, in mission, and in mutual support.

Fr. Fabio de Souza