People Of Faith
Name, Parish, Role in Parish
Douglas "Doug" L. Rasler, a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, and Parish Catechetical Leader (Director of Religious Education).
How was your faith formed?
Initially, I believe it was with attending Mass with my wife, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and being part of a small group in the RENEW Program. Today, I feel my real formation came about through my disability. I was diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder that impaired the use of hands, feet and the ability to talk for 10 years. When I was questioning: “Why me?” and then realizing the real question was: “Why not me?” I believe I came to the understanding, “Lord, you got my attention, I’m not the one in charge, I’m listening, what is it You are asking.”
Who or what has been a big influence in your life?
There was a parishioner whose physical challenge was greater than mine, she was participating in Mass (including all the gestures, how I did not know) and being actively involved in many parish events. I felt if she was able to do all these things, then I needed to bite the bullet and not talk the talk but walk the walk.
What do you do in your role as a parish catechetical leader?
I attempt to role model my faith in all activities of which I’m involved. The mechanics of what I do is organizing and recruiting. I formulate the Religious Education programs for children, teens and adults, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, and the Liturgy of the Word program. I recruit the catechists for these programs, provide resources and mentoring. I’m a resource for the faith formation in Holy Redeemer School. I schedule the ministers for the various liturgies in the parish. Last but not least is to maintain all of this in the best fiscal manner possible.
Who do you consider to be positive role models today?
I believe there are many as a group; they are the people in the trenches of the Church, so to speak. The individuals who live and breathe the Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy, their actions proclaiming dignity of life; they see Christ in the eyes of others. Their relationship with Jesus Christ is recognizable through their flexibility or adaptability with others, their discernment of making decisions, and their dedication to humanity. In naming an individual I would have to say: "Pope Francis the First” who exemplifies these charisms.
Describe a time when you have experienced God’s presence in your life?
I knew of God’s presence in the birth of our three daughters. I also feel I see God’s presence effervescing in the eyes of those receiving the various sacraments.
What are your dreams for parish faith formation today?
The hunger and fire of teens and young adults to ignite into others that faith is not stagnate but a living, evolving entity in constant need of nourishment. Whether this nourishment comes through technological media, small or large group sharing or Scripture reflection is not the question but that it is manifested in building a relationship with Jesus Christ and celebrating the source and summit of our faith.
How do you nurture your faith life?
I feel that I nurture my faith by praying the Liturgy of the Hours, praying the Rosary, celebrating Liturgies, and sharing in Scripture reflections.
What makes being a Catholic so important to you?
I think the Nicene Creed sums this up the best and that no matter what part of the world you are in the message is the same.
What is your best wisdom on life?
“Prayer is the best weapon we possess, the key that opens the heart of God. “
St. Padre Pio
What is a scripture quote that you would like to share?
Humility -- ”That at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven, and on the earth and under the earth.” Phil 2:10
