From Where I Write

Feast of Saint Ann and Saint Joachim: The First Holy Family of Nazareth

2011-07-27T21:37:00.000-04:00

My reflection on this feast has been published by Catholic Online. Please take a look and feel welcome to share a comment there or here.

Post Election Ponderings

2011-06-16T19:58:00.002-04:00

My latest piece, "A Potpourri of Post-Election Ponderings: Do Elections Matter?", is now posted on The Lawrenceville Patch.

Forward, Backward: Bodies (and Lives) in Motion

2011-06-04T18:15:00.003-04:00

My latest essay, "Forward, Backward: Bodies (and Lives) in Motion" is now online.

In Loving Memory of Sister Helene Foley, SCC

2011-05-21T19:22:00.001-04:00

As the world contemplated whether the Great Rapture would occur today, Jesus came in the early hours of the morning, around 1:30 a.m., and called home to eternal life our very dear +Sister Helene Foley, SCC.

When my father and his godbrother would greet one another at a family funeral they usually said to one another, "Condolences and Congratulations!" I think in the case of Sister Helene the meaning of their greeting in the context of faith makes perfect sense.

While our hearts will miss her physical presence among us, we can rest assured that God carried her directly to her eternal reward, fullness of life in Him. A model for all of us, Sisters and Associates alike, Sister Helene would never consider herself saintly although we easily recognized it in her. She strove daily throughout the entirety of her life to be all she could be for Jesus and those she met in community and ministry. Her faithfulness to her baptismal vows, her religious consecration, and the Gospel of Jesus was evidenced on a daily basis in so many ways recognizable to us, yet in her view she was simply a fellow sojourner on this journey of life, responding as best she could to Jesus' immeasurable love.

Attentive to many devotions as part of her daily prayer life, she embraced The Rosary and the Stations of the Cross not as rote formulas to be recited but as true encounters between her, Jesus, and Mary. As many of us witnessed firsthand, she modeled her life as a Sister of Christian Charity after Mary -- from Nazareth to Calvary to Pentecost, and beyond, always bringing to life the charism and spirit of our Mother Pauline. Sister Helene's heart beat with love until she, in the words of St. Catherine of Siena, "closed her eyes to this world and opened to the next." Whether we have known Sister Helene for decades or met her only for a short time, we are better people beacuse of her.

As we pray for the repose of Sister Helene’s soul, let us also hold in prayer the many intentions that were important to her daily remembrances, including but not limited to praying for priests who by virtue of the Sacrament of Holy Orders bring us the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Sister Helene prayed daily for all of us, and I have no doubt that she, in the same spirit as St. Therese of Lisieux, will continue to do the same from heaven.

Together we pray: “Eternal rest grant unto our dear Sister Helene, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.”

First Post, Last Day

2011-05-21T19:18:00.001-04:00

It's official: I am a contributing writer for "Local Voices" with the Lawrenceville Patch. My inaugural post is headlined this morning, "First Post, Last Day." Please check it out and feel welcome to post comments there or here. I also welcome ideas for topics about which you'd like me to write.

"Where There Is Life, There Is Hope"

2011-05-17T16:37:00.002-04:00

Reproductive rights is an issue that many people avoid discussing in mixed company. Regardless of one's views on abortion specifically, the right to obtain a legal elective abortion arguably is an emblem of essential freedoms. Yet there are truths that cannot be ignored. The stories of Abby Johnson and Bernard Nathanson, MD testify to this reality. Check out Deacon Fournier's story about Abby Johnson and stop by Abby's website too.

The Death of Osama Bin Laden: A Personal Reflection

2011-05-06T19:15:00.000-04:00

The following essay which I wrote on the morning of Monday, May 2nd was published by Catholic Online. Click here to read it there.

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When the alert tone sounded and the message scrolled across the screen on WNBC-TV last night at 10:18 p.m., it literally stopped me in my tracks. I sat down on the couch preparing to hear an announcement from the President, the substance of which turned out to beyond my greatest imagination. Libya, I thought, or a domestic death of historical or political significance, or maybe even a statement about the White House Journalists Dinner, or even more ridiculously but not unlikely, something in response to the recent claims that emerged that Obama’s long form birth certificate had been doctored with Adobe Illustrator. Never did it occur to me that the news would be about Osama Bin Laden. But I couldn’t wait for the President – it was a very long five minutes. So I switched from awaiting the suspenseful ending of “Celebrity Apprentice” – noting the irony of interrupting Trump’s show with an announcement by the President – and switched on Fox News. There I caught the tailend of a comment from Geraldo Rivera hypothesizing that the news had to be bigger than Libya. Without any source, Rivera predicted: Bin Laden has to be subject of the announcement. Within seconds, he receives and reads from a producer’s note citing a senior administration official who advised that “Bin Laden is dead.”

Geraldo starts to cheer. The expression on his face changes from sober to smiling. I stand still, unable to speak, in the middle of my living room. I had the tangible experience of not knowing what to think or what to feel. Very soon I was transported back to the unfortunately familiar but very uncomfortable and lonely feelings of the dark night of 9/11/2001. At first, I did not realize that was where I was going, but after several hours of watching the television coverage – much of which preceeded the President’s formal remarks which did not take place until 1 and ½ hours later than announced -- it was when I made the mistake of switching the channel to CNN where the voice of Wolf Blitzer once again kept me company through the dark night.

Early on in the night and as the hours wore on and the media coverage of this historic moment filled with contrasting images of Bin Laden and celebratory crowds of young Americans, many of them military, outside the White House and in Times Square (NYC), I found myself weary and wary but not able to celebrate or rejoice.

I get it. I get that people feel relieved that an elusive mass murderer was, assuming this news to be true, finally captured and put to death. “He is no longer our problem,” as some would comment. I get the pride for our troops who daily put themselves in harm’s way so that we can live more safely and without thinking minute-to-minute about the dangers that roam the world. I get the pride and gratitude for the amazingly courageous and selfless men (I assume it was an all-male team) who carried out the operation that ended Bin Laden’s reign. I get the sigh of relief, the sense of closure, the feelings of vengeance and vindication. September 11, 2001 changed our lives and for some of us in more direct ways.
The criminal has been caught and his life extinguished. But the story doesn’t end there, neither do the thoughts, the feelings, the emotions, and the realities. Global terrorism and especially Al Qaida remain real threats. Experts say that retaliation – perhaps in multiple forms – will be forthcoming. As vulnerable as we are to such a strike, perhaps though even greater is the potential strike to our human spirit. There is understandable celebrating today, but there is great risk in the collective rejoicing over the death of another human being as evil as his actions were. When I awoke this morning, I realized that I had witnessed what it must have been like when the world learned that Adolf Hitler was dead. Then I quickly learned that he, too, was announced dead on May 1st. The ironic coincidence is not lost on me – As egregious and reprehensible as the acts of Hitler and Bin Laden were, they did not act alone. As anti-Semitism remains alive today, the anti-American ideology and hatred that drove one time ally Bin Laden permeates the global politic. Every enemy that the U.S. has at one time was an ally, someone we trusted, sometimes even someone we followed. That is a reality not to be ignored.

More tangible than that is the reality that there is a moral dimension to this moment. When the President noted that the military operation to take down Bin Laden had commenced at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, that irony was not lost on me either: In many Catholic Churches, people were, at that exact hour, commemorating the Feast of Divine Mercy with the communal praying of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Voices raised in chant-song, “For the sake of His sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world!” Repeated ten times, these faithful implore the relentless Mercy of the Divine. Perhaps it was the Mantle of Divine Mercy that spread out over the military men involved in the operation. Likely it was, with not a single American life lost despite a helicopter mishap. Not to suggest that the mission was a Divine Crusade, the question of Divine Mercy remains.

As a Christian, as a Catholic, I am called both to Mercy and to forgive as I wish to be forgiven, to forgive as Jesus Himself forgave. I am also called to love as Jesus loved. Neither call is easy; at times, both seem impossible and sometimes, especially in the face of incomprehensible tragedy, wrong. Still, they are the call we share and rightly so because ultimately the inability to forgive and the act of hating harms the person who holds those feelings equally if not more than the person at whom the feelings are directed.

The question of mercy and forgiveness, in relation to Hitler and Bin Laden, can be easily dismissed as abstract lofty ideals, the ponderings of someone disconnected or far removed from the realities of the atrocities both men masterminded. (Imagine if either had put his God-given intelligence to the greater good what could have been achieved, but I digress.) But as an invisible survivor of 9/11/2001, I think the questions of mercy and forgiveness are even greater and (yes) very nuanced for people like me, people who live and carry the hidden scars of surviving a catastrophic terror attack.

In May 2008, I (finally) had the blessing of meeting and listening to Sister Helen Prejean, csj, the inspiration for the reknown film, “Dead Man Walking.” After Helen’s talk, I had the privilege to share a sacred moment with her and told her that I thought the transformation of spirit that I already was experiencing through the encounter with her was preparing me for something. At the time, I thought it was outreach to death row inmates through letterwriting prison ministry. However, just three months later, I learned that what I was being changed for was six weeks of jury service on a very complex gang-related murder trial. While the story of that jury experience would rightly be the subject of another piece, the one relevant point is that as Juror #x, I sat looking face to face on a daily basis with admitted murderers who I realized were also very broken grown boys who like me were also made in the image of God. They weren’t born evil; their lives, their choices, and the focus of their intelligence and energies were grossly misplaced; their own sense of self-worth was either non-existent or misconstrued. Sparing a vivid description of the deeds to which some of them admitted, suffice to say that they committed horrendous humanly unforgivable deeds, some probably in the context of their testimonies. But in reflecting back on that experience and the insights I gained I was reminded that God’s Mercy is infiniteless; God does not withhold Mercy and Forgiveness from those who seek it. As the priest underscored at my nephew’s eighth grade graduation, “Graduates, hear me loud and clear: There is nothing, ASBOLUTELY NOTHING, you could ever do that would make God stop loving you. Don’t forget that.”

So, unconditional love, forgiveness and mercy for (Hitler and) Bin Laden? Ultimately the answer to this question is God’s to give, which once again makes me thankful that I am not God. But it’s a question that I cannot ignore or dismiss because I believe it is rightly also posed to every person of faith, to each of us, especially to those injured by him. Theologically speaking, God never stops loving anyone, just as God doesn’t stop loving us even when we sin; forgiveness and mercy from God are equally available to all who seek it and will receive it. Some theologians have even hypothesized about Judas Iscariot’s place in heaven – and he turned Jesus over to death for thirty pieces of silver and then ended his own life with a noose. Two thoughts continue to resonate in my mind as I grapple with these questions: “Love your enemies. Do good to those who hurt you.” “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” These are two lofty aspirations, two heavy crosses when I think about putting them into practice. In the days to come, the challenge for me is whether I can express love for those who have hurt me regardless of whether they have repented or made me whole. The challenge is whether I can hope for God’s mercy on those who have hurt me when they face final judgment. The challenge is whether I can forgive those who “trespass against me” in order that I, too, can be so forgiven.

On September 11, 2001, as I struggled with the experience of the terror attack, I instinctively went to call my Dad to talk things over, but he had died in December 1998. Today’s another one of those days when I need to call my Dad, but this time I already know what he’d say. My father often reminded us that self-righteous Christians might be very surprised to encounter Hitler or any other former evildoer in Paradise; he was not exonerating such evil acts but so deep was his confidence in the potential of God’s Mercy. My Dad was no pushover, but he also imparted a deep awareness that we are called to model our lives after the heart of God.

As the reality of Bin Laden’s death is driven home by countless news stories and images across all forms of social media, I realize that I am struggling with how to feel, what to think, and what to pray about this man whose actions permanently scarred me and interrupted the life I had been living. He took from me something that can never, regardless of my own efforts, be restored to pre-9/11/2001 existence. He took these same things and more from thousands, arguably millions, of others, too.

Ultimately, unconditional love, mercy, forgiveness, and justice for a soul are God’s. But I, too, have a part to play. So do you. Will we respond as we are called? Will we work to be able to respond as we are called? These real questions are put to us anew today. How will we respond?

This Lenten Journey

2011-04-16T17:06:00.005-04:00

Prior to the start of Lent, I was trying to be more deliberate about writing and posting and my own spiritual journey. I had the best plans of my own, but God had others. There's a saying, "Let Advent be Advent so that Christmas can be Christmas." Well, every so often I find that God lets Lent be Lent so that Easter can be Easter, full with yoru own heavy cross and Calvary pilgrimate to journey. Due to a number of factors, this Lent has been one of those, but it's also been replete with its own blessings along the way. I haven't been a faithful writer, and my latest project Totus Tuus -- a virtual pilgrimage to the beatification of JPII, did not happen as planned. But all is not lost! God is good and each moment gives us a new opportunity. I will write and I may even try to reconfigure the Totus Tuus blog. The important thing is that I had good intentions for the right reason and was open to inspiration. Being able to recognize God's blessings and presence along the rocky road to Calvary and Easter is also a grace, and for that I am thankful amidst the thorny bushes. As evening comes today, Christians around the world begin the most sacred week of the year with the arrival of Passion (Palm) Sunday and on Tuesday Jewish people around the world pause for the solemn observance of Passover. I love it -- for both reasons historical and spiritual -- when Holy Week and Passover overlap. It's a perfect reminder to Christians of our Jewish roots and the faith tradition of Jesus. We can only come to celebrate Easter in all its glory because of Passover. Sometimes seven days can seem like a lifetime, but usually seven days go by in the blink of an eye. This week take time to savor each day as you journey to Sunday. Take in the sights, sounds, and ceremonies and let them embrace you and renew your spirit. Have a Blessed Holy Week so that you can celebrate a joy-filled Easter!

Checking In...

2011-02-19T15:20:00.004-05:00

It's been more than a few days since I have posted here. I had a few writing projects in process, one is a guest blog that will be appearing at A Nun's Life blog on Monday, February 21st. Be sure to check it out.

I have also been developing the daily posts for my new project, Totus Tuus: A Virtual Pilgrimage to the Beatification of John Paul II. If you haven't had a chance to stop by, please do, and if you'd be interested in writing one of the entries, you are most welcome. There are still more than 50 entries to go.

I also have a few offline writing projects that are in various stages of readiness/non-readiness. I hope to get those moving with more deliberateness and good results. We shall see.

Celebrating Consecrated Life

2011-02-06T20:20:00.003-05:00

"In 1997, Pope John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. This Feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day on which candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect light of Jesus Christ to all peoples. The celebration of World Day for Consecrated Life is transferred to the following Sunday in order to highlight the gift of consecrated persons for the whole Church." From the USCCB Website

For the sake of parochial observances, the Church in the United States observes this occasion today. It is a valuable opportunity both as Church and as invidiuals to celebrate the gift that consecrated life is to the Church, to the world, and to us individually.

I pause on this day in a special way to give thanks that God deigned in the recipe of me to include the rich flavors of a number of religious communities, namely the daughters of Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt, the Sisters of Christian Charity; the daughters of Blessed Fr. James Alberione, the Daughters of Saint Paul; the daughters of St. Dominic, the Dominican Sisters of Caldwell; the daughters of Blessed Mary Angela Truskowska, the Felician Sisters; and the sons of St. Marcellin Champagnat, the Marist Brothers of the Schools. I am also personally thankful for the richness in my life through the daughters of Margaret Anna Cusack, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace; the daughters of Molly (Mary Joseph) Rogers, the Maryknoll Sisters; the daughters of Catharine McAuley, the Sisters of Mercy; and the many religious across communities and congregations who have touched my life and are touching my life now. A special recognition to the Jesuits, OFM Caps, OFM Conventuals, CFRs, the Nuns of St. Basil the Great, the Little Sisters of the Poor, the Marianite Sisters, and the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Whether I have mentioned your community by name or not, I am grateful for and to you.

For you, this day I pray with the same prayer (original source unknown)that I concluded my high school graduation speech:

"Of all the fine and noble things that you have done with your beautiful life,
the greatest is you helped me to know God and know myself.
I shall spend my eternity thanking you!"

A New Project

2011-02-04T21:48:00.007-05:00

With the beatification of Pope John Paul II just over 80 days away, I have started a new short-term project, Totus Tuus, a blog that I hope serves as a pilgrimage toward Beatification Day.

Check it out, and let me know if you'd like to be a guest blogger for one of the days.

And don't forget to visit here, too. I won't be abandoning this blog, just adding to my work in the blogosphere.

The Need for Healing, A Prescription for Wholeness

2011-01-23T09:45:00.006-05:00

There is a broad list of topics on my mind this week, but one of the intertwining themes among them is the concept of healing. We as imperfect humans need healing, society as a community of humans needs healing, the Church needs healing.

Msgr. Ken Lasch's homily for this third Sunday in Ordinary Time offers tangible insights into this fundamental human need and meaningful ways to further our ongoing healing as people, as community, as society, as Church through an ever-deepening relationship with Jesus as Brother and God.

The well-known headlings of the week just begin to touch the surface of the hurts we share in common, of our shared need for both individual and collective healing:

the gun violence in Arizona two weeks ago and the miraculous ongoing recovery of Congresswoman Giffords;
the vicious murder of Lakewood Police Officer Chris Matlosz;
the burial of PFC Benjamin Moore (Bordentown, NJ) and the proposed protest by Westboro Baptist "Church";
the horrible tragedies uncovered at "Dr." Kermit Gosnell's Pennsylvania abortion clinic.

With these few selected examples in mind, this image of open hands filled with candlelight represents for me the opportunity to surrender to God what hurts us, the hurts we have committed against others, the worries, struggles, and burdens that weigh us down and hold us back. Placing these cares into God's hands allows God to hold our hands and embrace us in Light and Love. In return our hands become free to hold God and to reach out with the same healing clasp to others.

May your day and the week to come be energized with light, healing, and wholeness!

Leaving Literature as Written? A Twenty-First Century Challenge or Opportunity

2011-01-14T09:45:00.004-05:00

A recent article by Tom Leonard in the UK’s Daily Mail has caught a lot of interest and generated a lot of discussion both in Facebook and in other venues. His article Huckleberry Finn Removes N-Word: Political Correctness Takes on Mark Twain’s Classic, discusses a forthcoming edition of the Twain classic to be released under the guidance of Dr. Alan Gribben, professor of English at Auburn University in Alabama, in which the “N Word and the term “injun” [referring to U.S. Indians] are replaced or restated to reflect 21st century sensibilities about race, ethnicity, and identity.

This is a must read article! Two key issues are raised: 1) Twain’s use of language recognized now as racist and 2) editing out objectionable language to overcome censorship and placement of a work on banned books lists.
A friend noted along with his link to the article, “The scholars say the new version is a bid to make the book's treatment of race more in line with 21st century values, but critics say the censorship is taking political correctness too far.” He then went on to ask, “What say you?”

Here is a summary of my contributions to the online conversation:

How can we learn/teach about history if we can't read a work in its original form and evaluate the context of its time? I think this is a potential tragedy as it really alters the state of literature and the disciplines of literary studies, interdisciplinary studies, and cultural studies, just to name a few (actually this list could go on ... history, American Studies).

We cannot re-write the history of race in the U.S. We can only contribute to writing its future. To erase the reality of racism in the U.S. is arguably one of the most racist things a person or group can do because by invisbilizing racism it is empowered and left unchallenged. We cannot rewrite the history of race in the U.S. We can only contribute to its future. To erase the reality of race in the U.S. is arguably one of the most racist things a person or group, whether or not they intend it, can do because by invisibilizing racism it is empowered and left unchallenged.

I don’t diminish or underestimate the pain/sting or racist language especially on people of color. However, I think we greatly fail as a society if we “whitewash” the impact of racism by erasing it, restating it, making it somehow more palatable.
The subtle influences of racism (and all other –isms), however, extend beyond use of language. So, if the language of a work were “fixed,” the more subtle nuances of racialized living may not be detected by readers who would experience the language as a red flag of sorts. Obviously, the whole story can’t be “fixed; that would mean remaking Twain’s work in its entirety, and thus it would no longer be Twain’s “Huckleberry Finn.”

Remembering -- One Year Later

2011-01-12T09:49:00.004-05:00

I think the snowfall came to keep us all reflective on this first anniversary of the tragic earthquake in Haiti. The cataclismic nature of shifting plates is not a mere metaphor: On that day, many lives were forever changed. In a special way, let us remember Christine Gianacaci and her school colleagues and mentors who were there to accompany and unknowingly did so very literally with their lives. Let us continue to remember and advocate for the many Haitian people who continue to suffer the longterm aftershocks.

The four Lynn University students who died in the January 12, 2010 earthquake. Christine Gianacaci is pictured on the bottom row, left.

"To continue Christine Gianacaci's mission of helping underprivileged children and to put a smile (like Christine's big smile) on the faces of those less fortunate than us", visit www.christineshope.org.

Turning the Page on Christmas 2010

2011-01-09T21:47:00.000-05:00

Well, tonight we turn the page and, liturgically speaking from a Catholic perspective, officially close the Christmas season. No one like to see Christmas go, especially not me. I take serious the charge to "keep Christmas with [me] all through the year!" While I believe that notion to be true, Fr. Dan's homily tonight (I went to a neighboring parish today) struck me: To paraphrase, in a homily in which he shared his childhood experience of his parents' rocky marriage and subsequent divorce, he said that the Christmas story is nice, but it's not why Christ came to earth or what we are all about as Christians. We are really Easter people so it's necessary that we encounter and experience Jesus the adult which today, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, is all about. That's why the feast marks the transition from Christmas to Ordinary Time. Fr. Dan underscored that God is there in the messes and the dumps and we need those experiences to encounter God there, too. So, he said, the trappings and external signs of Christmas will be gone (literally, he offered the pointsettias to anyone who wanted to take them home) in the next two days but our journey continues.

It was a very thoughtprovoking homily that left people with lots to ponder. It was also one in which Fr. Dan's human honesty about his own journey very well may have saved or will save a life as often times the miracles of every day life are the ones we never hear.

"Yes, Everyone Is a Shepherd and King!"

2011-01-02T12:34:00.003-05:00

Today we find ourselves at the liturgical celebration of Epiphany, the day on which we commemorate the Christ Child revealing himself to the non-Jewish nations through the three kings. My mind always returns on this day to the Weston Priory song, "Shepherds and Kings," so I invite you to revisit a blogpost I shared five years ago commemorating this same feast day. Click here and consider for yourself the role of shepherds and kings in your life, encountering God and sharing God each day.

Turning the Page from 2010 to 2011

2010-12-31T16:15:00.011-05:00

My feeling about the arrival of a new year has changed and, yes, grown over time. Now that I am in my 40s, I find myself less anxious about it and more reflective about it.

I used to think of New Year's as a fixed defined moment in which we together pass from one year to another, a moment full of possibility but also full of anxiety. Then I realized that the movement from 11:59 p.m. December 31 to 12:00 midnight January 1 happens on a rolling basis until the 24 time zones find themselves in the new year. With that realization, I have come to recognize the midnight moment as a moment within the many moments of natural transition that exist over the course of a lifetime. It is our construction of time and the time-counting labels we use that mark the moment of New Year.

With that new found point of view, the end of one year and the arrival of a new one is not a catastrophic moment but rather a moment filled with opportunity. The most obvious opportunity is to reflect, give thanks, praise, bless, and renew.

The opportunity to renew brings us to the age-old notion of "New Year's resolutions." Yes, I am sure that we all have our experience with resolutions made, resolutions broken, and resolutions repeated every year hoping for success.

These past few days I have been thinking quite a lot about resolutions, not as a ritual but as opportunity. The new year's moment offers a meaningful invitation to renewal and this blog post by Sister Anne Flanagan, fsp offers a healthy view on the New Year's resolution presented by Blessed Fr. James Alberione, ssp. Supplementing that "resolution framework" is this article by Fr. Jim Martin, sj offering 12 guideposts for daily living (lessons he wishes he learned at age 25 now that he turned 50).

For 2011, I am going to strive to integrate Fr. Alberione's model with Fr. Jim's 12 guideposts for living. The outcome? Hopefully together with a renewed and peaceful spirit will yield a Lisa who is more fully Lisa as God intends her to be.

We shall see... In the meantime, as the waters of time come to wash away the final hours of 2010 and the dawn rises on 2011, I wish you peace, health, contentment, and all that is good.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T22:44:00.002-05:00

Love Came Down at Christmas...

RIP, Cousin Danny

2010-12-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

Daniel M. Corkery
May 9, 1948 – December 11, 2010

In memory of my cousin, some of his own words of testimony: “I like to follow in the steps Jesus had laid out in the bible. His main mission was to tell others, about his Father named Jehovah and his plan for mankind here on earth. Jesus' directions on how to pray, I said this prayer many times in my life, but did not fully understand its meaning. Today with a clear understanding of his prayer, I now do the things he wanted us to do.”

Danny, daily I prayed that you’d get the miracle my Dad didn’t get. In the end, God deemed it was time to call you home to Himself. I am sorry we did not have more face-to-face, voice-to-voice time to share, but I am so grateful that we reconnected electronically and had the grace of sharing faith, testimony, and our family connection. Now, my cousin, you can experience an eternal fishing trip with the greatest Fisher of All, Jesus Christ, your God and your All, and together with the family members who live eternally you can enjoy the eternal banquet (or BBQ) of God’s unconditional love.

Rest in peace, and keep an eye on us! And please, give all our loved ones you see on the other side a big hug and lots of love from me.

Casual Comfort Cooking

2010-12-11T16:25:00.003-05:00

Busy Saturday! Up early, cleaned the shower, ran a few shopping errands, went to the Post Office, picked up the paper, came back home, put in some laundry, and have been cooking ever since. A busy night tonight, so I figured it would be good to get a head start on cooking. Plus the weather seemed right for cooking creativity! Today's recipes are turning out pretty good so far.

I've made three culinary innovations today.

First, for lunch, I quickly prepped what I am calling a December Pasta Lunch. Organic whole wheat fusilli with pan sauteed grape tomatoes, spinach, red and green peppers, basil, garlic, olive oil, and smoked mozzarella, very lightly salted and moderately peppered. Serve it up in a ceramic bowl and the tomatoes gently burst on each first bite.

Second, I pre-prepared supper: The filling for Asian chicken lettuce wraps. These are inspired by P.F. Chang's (way too high in sodium) lettuce wraps. Sauteed ground chicken in olive oil and garlic with mixed asian vegetables (including water chestnuts). Seasoned with a pinch of salt, several shakes of pepper, a couple of dashes of poultry seasoning, and 4 tablespoons of WF Thai Peanut Sauce/Marinade. When I thought of this recipe, I believed I still had some WF Korean Sesame Marinade, but as it turns out, that was already gone. In any case, yummy! As an alternate to consuming this cooked mixture in a lettuce wrap, you could serve it in a half of baked/roasted green pepper. I took a taste and have to say it turned out quite fine.

The third dish, which I plan to serve for lunch tomorrow, is something that for now I am calling Honey Mustard-Paprika Chicken and Scallopped Yams. The aromas wafing through the house while this one dish wonder bakes are soothing in a most wintery way.

I am glad that I take the time to cook and expand my culinary creativity from time to time. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and paprika are a few of the seasonal tools I make use of at this time of year. What aromas and flavors comfort you at this time of year?

Quiet Love: A Tribute to the Immaculate Conception of Mary

2010-12-08T17:31:00.001-05:00

Quiet Love
(reprinted from www.fatherlasch.com December 8, 2010 post)

Woman wrapped in silence
resting in the cold night
waiting for the sun to rise
and a new day to bring new life.
Woman unknown,
under stars light years away --
under the star destined to shine over all the ages.

Waiting woman wrapped in mystery
carrying within her womb the child God,
child unwanted --
by earthly gods
of gilt and gold
of power and prestige
of weapons and war

Woman wrapped in wisdom, sophia,
transparent soul filled with grace,
waiting in the darkness of night
to bring forth ‘Sophia’ Son of light
in whom there is no darkness --
no east or west,
incarnate – neither male nor female -- the Christ
the same yesterday, today and forever.

Courageous woman called blessed
from generation to generation.
Gentle woman in whom no sin is found
woman priest of God brings forth the lamb of God
who takes away the sins of the world—enduring love,
healing love.

Venite adoremus!

+ Rest in peace ...

2010-12-07T20:43:00.006-05:00

The world lost a giant today.
She gained her fame not by authoring a book or achieving great feats.
She achieved her fame by her integrity, courage, and honesty.
She did not choose a life lived in public, but she lived it there nonetheless.
She did not choose the limelight, but when it caught her up she stayed true to herself.
Elizabeth Edwards died as she lived:
True to her God, her family, her self.
She never wavered in fulfilling her destiny
and when faced with the cruel truth
of spousal betrayal and the uncertainty of a diagnosis of cancer
she went on, putting one foot forward and then the next,
marking out the path that was hers alone, the path that belonged to no other.
Her journey was hers, but it was not unfamiliar to many.
Yet a person made public, she continued to live the privacy of her life,
opening the door to the story of her self when she wanted and how she wanted.
Today the flickering flame of her candle extinguished
as she passed from this world into the next.
Now the third chapter of her life begins
in a place where she is whole and free.
The imprint of her life well-lived
will linger long
upon all of us who were drawn to her
and inspired by her.

The world lost a giant today.
Her example is more than we can capture in words,
more than we can chronicle in a text.

Rest in peace, Elizabeth.
May the choirs of angels sing you awake
in the glory of a God who loves you
unconditionally and faithfully.

Martyrs of El Salvador, Still Pray For Us!

2010-12-02T06:54:00.000-05:00

This is a reprinted excerpt of my December 2nd post from two years ago. My thoughts still ring true.

December 2, 1980... [Thirty years ago] armed masked men, on orders of the Salvadoran military officials who had been trained at the "School of the Americas" on the U.S. Army base at Fort Benning (Columbus, GA), raped and murdered Maryknoll Sisters Maura Clarke and Ita Ford, Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel, and Missioner Jean Donovan, missionaries who lived and worked among the Salvadoran people, side by side, in response to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through their lives and their deaths, they willingly and knowingly and unreservedly accepted "the same fate of the poor" (this is the title of a biography of Ita Ford published by Orbis Books).

There is an entire generation or two that has no personal knowledge of that fateful night on a dark road traveling from the San Salvador Airport to Chalatenango. Yet the legacy of these women's lives and the truth about their deaths and the promise of hope that lives on because of who they remain continues to inspire and motivate because even though twenty-eight y[thirty years -- three decades have] passed still each year countless numbers of us pause deliberately to remember them, to remember Archbishop Romero, to remember the tens of thousands disappeared and murdered, and the 100,000s of displaced.

...

As we celebrate the lives of these women, let us also give thanks in particular for the witness and courage of the Ford, Clark, Kazel, and Donovan families and the Maryknoll and Ursuline communities and especially for the multiple ways in which Bill in particular challenged us in the same way he challenged himself to walk the walk. Bill, may you rest in peace and in the embrace of our most loving God may you enjoy seeing Ita once again face-to-face! And may your spirit, along with Maura, Ita, Dorothy, and Jean, remain with us in our struggles for peace and justice always reminding us to never forget the people of El Salvador who still today need our "accompanimiento."

For the complete December 2, 2008 post, click here .

World AIDS Day

2010-12-01T18:46:00.005-05:00

Today I remember all whose lives have been touched by HIV/AIDS, those infected, those affected, those who give care, those who work for a cure, those who provide service, those who live, those who've died, those who love.

In a special way, I remember ...

Patrick
George
Raul
Arthur
David
Michael
Vinnie
Frankie
Ryan

... and the list goes on ...

Your lives were not lived in vain and your deaths were not in vain. You left your marks upon this world and upon my heart and the hearts of others who love(d) you.

To those who live with HIV today, stay strong, stay focused, stay well, and live life to the fullest.

The Turning of a New Page

2010-11-28T18:33:00.001-05:00

As you can see, I have been quite remiss in posting to this blog. After a similarly long unplanned hiatus, I had intended to get back to more frequent postings. However, life, including some health challenges and other priorities intervened. With the arrival of Thanksgiving and the start of Advent, I decided after having been inspired during prayer to be more deliberate in tending to this garden. I have lots of ideas for what I might plant here, but I think it is best to "be and let be" and see what blooms here. Some seeds might take root; others may not. What matters most is that I make myself available to this garden and welcome the visitors to it.

On that note, abundant Advent blessings!

Feast of the Queen of the Apostles

2010-05-22T17:46:00.002-04:00

Today, the Saturday before Pentecost, is the observance of Mary, Queen of the Apostles. This is a special feast for the Pauline family of religious congregations founded by Blessed Fr. James Alberione. As baptized disciples of Christ Jesus and children of Mother Mary, it, too, is a day for all Catholics to celebrate. In honor of the feast, I am posting a link to the reflection I posted for this day last year.

Blessings!

My Silence in the Blogosphere

2010-05-22T17:44:00.002-04:00

This has been the longest I have ever gone without posting on my blog. The past months have been very filled. I have also been expanding my techno-literacy via Facebook and Twitter. No excuse, just an honest explanation. Today I resolved the matter of my password and am back here, still with stuff to say. I won't promise to post daily or frequently, but I will try to at least post more regularly.

Thoughts on Thanksgiving Food

2009-11-24T20:17:00.005-05:00

This evening I had the graced opportunity to attend a Thanksgiving sharing on food following "A Nun's Life" nightly prayer podcast. I made the prayer time a few times last week and knowing that tonight's session would include this e-social gathering afterwards I spent some time reflecting on "food" in relation to the Thanksgiving holiday. Since I did not bring a recipe to share, I offered the following thoughts as the fruits of my own contemplation (the reference to the "lemon delicious" refers to a yummy dessert that was shared):

I have no recipe to share tonight so I'd like to offer the fruit of my meditation in preparation for this gathering here. I just want to share a thought on the significance of special foods on Thanksgiving. Whether it's my grandmother's stuffing recipe or the plate of nuts and veggies and dips that keep us occupied while the meal is cooking or the lemon delicious we are salivating over here, I think what the food represents is the deliciousness of the relationships that are important to us, the relationships for which we express gratitude in a tangible way on Thanksgiving whether we are near or far from family, friends, or loved ones, whether they are still with us or in the next chapter of life. The food which we rightly celebrate in honoring the bountiful harvest with which God has blessed us is an emblem or symbol also of the people with whom God blesses us.

Feast of the Divine Master

2009-10-25T10:05:00.003-04:00

Image compliments of the website of the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master

Today is the celebration of the Feast of Jesus the Divine Master -- Way, Truth, and Life -- in the family of religious congregations founded by Blessed James Alberione. Abundant blessings upon the Pauline communities throughout the world. It is also Day 1 of my novena asking God's wisdom on the November 3rd election here in New Jersey. Join me in praying each of these days, "Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in us the fire of Your love. Send forth your spirit and we shall be recreated and You shall renew the face of the earth!!" Please add this intention to your daily prayers.

On the Death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy

2009-08-26T22:09:00.001-04:00

While earthly hearts are heavy with sadness at this moment,

today there was a genuinely happy reunion of brothers in heaven.

Today Senator Edward Kennedy "closed his eyes to this world and opened them to the next" and with his passing from this world to eternal life an era comes to end. The subjective judgments are not ours to make. The mercy of God is greater than anything we can imagine with the limits of our human minds. Despite the issues on which we may have disagreed, Senator Kennedy did much good and remained true to his convictions. His life of public service is without question characterized by a genuine belief in public service and adherence to the notion that "to whom much has been given, of them much is expected." His human frailties reminded us that human beings are almost always imperfect and life is a process of trying to get it right just living day by day. Volumes will be written on the legacy of his public service chronicling his legislative and humanitarian accomplishments and critiquing the issues where his views and advocacy diverged from an author's or commentator's. Through it all, it is important to remember that a family mourns the death of a brother, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, substitute dad, and "Uncle Teddy." In that perhaps is his greatest legacy, a legacy he could only fulfill because his visible humanity kept him from the fate of his brothers Jack and Bobby. In their absence, caused by the violence of their premature deaths, Ted was able to be there for Jackie and Ethel and "Uncle Teddy" was able to be there for Caroline and John and for Joe, Bobby, David, Courtney, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Matthew, and Douglas. He gave many a niece-daughter away, danced the bride-father dance, and with the unwavering strength of an immovable ship in a storm was there for his entire family in every moment of joy and sadness. Now the Creator has said, "Ted, come home. Well done, my good and faithful servant. As you did for the least of these, you did for me." And Ted Kennedy cleared his throat one final time and with unwavering resolve responded in the words of Saint Paul, "I have run the race; I have fought the good fight so to gain the prize of the kingdom of my Lord."

Thank you for your service to the people of the United States. Rest in peace, Edward M. Kennedy. May your soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace, amen. And may the heavenly reunion with all your loved ones, especially Jack and Bobby, be a genuine homecoming in the eternal Camelot!

Jubilee Blessings, Sisters and Associates of Christian Charity!

2009-08-21T08:18:00.004-04:00

Photo compliments of the SCC Generalate Website

Today the Congregation of the Sisters of Christian Charity celebrate the 160th anniversary of its founding in Paderborn, Germany by Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt. Today we join together in this jubilee moment of thanksgiving. We join in giving thanks to God for the "YES" of Mother Pauline and her first three Companions, the "YES" of each and every Sister and Associate during these past 160 years, and the "YES" of all those will follow in these same footsteps. As our Superior General noted in a recent reflection, "... the Magnificat will be the never-ending echo of our Fiat." So together let us pray,

"For all that has been, 'Thanks!'

For all that will be, 'YES!'"

For more on this special moment in the life of the community, visit the Generalate's online chronicles here and read recent reflections posted by our Superior General here, here, and here.

Pray for a Cure to Cancer

2009-08-16T18:58:00.003-04:00

In honor of my friend, J, who is after a long, courageous, and successful fight is now dealing with the mestasis of her cancer to other organs, please join me in praying ardently for a cure for cancer and also for the medical miracle that J needs (and we need) in her life now. In memory of all those whose lives ended due to cancer, let us do what we can to show support to people living with cancer today.

+ Jersey City Detective Marc DiNardo

2009-07-23T23:08:00.002-04:00

No matter how I try I cannot find words that adequately express my appreciation for Detective Marc DiNardo and the gift he continues to be to so many. Anyone whose life path crossed his, whether for a lifetime or a moment, is saddened by the fact that he is gone too soon, and no one knows that painful reality more than his dear family and loved ones. To Mary and the entire DiNardo family and family of friends, I extend my sincere condolences and prayer support, not just today but for the years to come.In life and in death, Marc offers us the example of what it means to serve and live selflessly. As we continue to be of support especially to Mary and his children and his brothers and sisters in blue, let us honor Marc's life by following his example in our own.Marc, we know that "... [God] will raise you up on eagle's wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of His hand" (from "On Eagle's Wings"). Stay with and watch over your family, friends, colleagues, and fellow officers now as you always have done. We honor you and thank you. We will never forget you.Rest now in peace, Detective Marc Anthony DiNardo. Rest now in the palm of God's hand, Marc.

Hearts That Beat as One

2009-06-20T09:41:00.004-04:00

The pairing of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary reflected clearly in the love that Pauline von Mallinckrodt lived. In her care and concern for those entrusted to her care, whether for the Sisters or for her family or for her companions or for the children, the hearts of Jesus and Mary beat in unison with Pauline's own heart. Today let us consider the hearts of Jesus and Mary beating in unison with our own hearts, reflecting the immensity of that great love through all we are and do.

2009-05-30T09:37:00.001-04:00

As we approach the Feast of the Queen of Apostles and the Great Feast of Pentecost, it is fitting to pause and consider these two feasts in relation to our Blessed Pauline.Like Mary, Pauline sought to carry God to the world by reflecting God's heart to each and every person whom she encountered. Like the Queen of Apostles, Pauline led by example demonstrating the humility and surrender of one who truly has given her life to and for God through tireless service to God's people. Pauline's heart was on fire with love. The flame of that love continues to stir the flame of Christian Charity (Christlichen Liebe) today. Pauline had a real relationship with each of the three persons of the Blessed Trinity. The Holy Spirit was not an abstract entity in her life but rather a living breathing dimension of God in her life. She relied totally and completely on the Spirit to guide, direct, and inspire her. As we join in the Feast of Pentecost, let us consider the presence, power, and gift of the Holy Spirit in our own life and seek to live the Spirit's grace abundantly in the example of Mary, Queen of Apostles, and our Blessed Pauline.

Bless you, my Sister, bless you on your way...

2009-04-07T23:24:00.002-04:00

In Loving Memory of

Sister Mary Alan Barszczewski, cssf

In Grateful Memory: Natasha Richardson (1963-2009)

2009-03-19T08:09:00.003-04:00

In grateful memory of Natasha Richardson.

She was a gift to her family and friends

but also to all of us

through her theatrical and film work and her charitable endeavors.

She graced the earth only for a little while

but the footprints she leaves mark an indelible trail of goodness.

If the theater and film world have a Camelot couple today,

Natasha and Liam is our Camelot couple.

Natasha blended the best of Grace Kelly and Princess Diana.

She was another "Candle in the Wind."

Sincerest condolences to her family and friends,

especially to her beloved Liam and sons.

Third Sunday of Lent 2009

2009-03-15T13:55:00.002-04:00

The Lenten Journey With (rather than to)Jesus ...

It's not quite the mid-point of Lent yet, but clearly the journey towards Easter so far has been moving quickly. It's not too late though, I tell myself, to make sure that I am making the most of Lent and the opportunity it presents to focus on the inward journey through my outward relationship to God, Church, family, friends, co-workers, and the world.

This first piece of Lent has been a time of finding my Lenten space. It's been a bit of challenge to hold the focus that I think Lent deserves yet each day I try as I can to be deliberate about observing Lent. My goal this week is to be more deliberate not for the sake of practicing but for the sake of perfecting. It's not a matter of rehearsing but of consciously and conscientiously using the time of this special season to keep the internal gaze on Jesus as the One who leads us to Easter. It's not just a question of following him but of being led by Him along the road He chooses for us this Lent/Easter journey. Sometimes we set forth a map that we believe is the way for us to reach the Sacred Triduum yet in fact God has a better way to lead us to the Easter moment. As I have been reminded before, the grace is also in the journey and not just in the destiny. In fact, we may have missed out abundantly if we only look to the graces and blessings of the destination. The journey, too, may be a moving destination to be opportunized.

As we approach this third week of Lent and look towards the Laetare moment of next Sunday, let us be open to experiencing the rich graces of journeying with Jesus in the present moment. In each face of Christ we see this week -- whether it be the homeless man at the traffic light, the domestic violence victim, the single mother struggling to make ends meet, the friend in prison, the simple everyday people in our lives, may we also see the woman at the well, the Samaritan woman, the women of the Gospel who also walk with Jesus. In these encounters may we find the Lenten journey God has mapped for us individually so that we can arrive at the Paschal feast of Easter to celebrate together the joy of Jesus' resurrection.

History in the Making

2009-01-17T14:12:00.002-05:00

"Rosa sat so Martin could walk.

Martin walked so Barack could run.

Barack ran so our children will fly."

Source: Unknown (Overheard during the 2008 Presidential Campaign)

The Invitation Still Awaits You...

2009-01-03T09:25:00.003-05:00

As I recently posted, the Sisters of Christian Charity (U.S. Eastern Province) are hosting a Discernment Retreat the weekend of January 9-11, 2009. To help foster a broader understanding of the charism, ministry, prayer life, and community of the Sisters of Christian Charity, check out this brief online video. For more information about the Discernment Retreat or other vocation-oriented events, click here or visit the Province's website.

Social Justice Matter: Congo

2009-01-03T08:29:00.004-05:00

In case you are not already aware, I want to bring to your attention a pressing social justice/global human rights issue, the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

YouTube has a brief informational video, entitled "Congo Emergency."

The video, "Congo Emergency," is located here and includes the following description:

In November 2008 representatives of missionary Congregations working in North Kivu and its outlying zones met at the headquarters of the International Union of Superiors General in Rome, Italy to discuss what could be done about the situation. About 100 men and women religious, as well as representatives of other non-governmental organizations working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, participated in the meeting which set up an intercongregational committee entitled, Congo Emergency. The committee has been asked to gather and centralize information, requests for aid, news and initiatives pertaining to the Kivu
crisis and above all to draw up a unified strategy that will enable the missionary institutes present in the area to work together to help alleviate the desperate situation of the people.

Click here to access both the video and related information. The situation there is quite bad. According to reports from a number of diverse sources, women and girl children are being subject to rape as a "strategy of war" and doctors who treat rape victims are subject to persecution and violence.

Celebrating the Feast of Mary, the Mother of God

2009-01-01T17:33:00.003-05:00

As we celebrate the arrival of the New Year, today is also the feast of Mary, the Mother of God. "Theotokos," the God bearer, is the most common image associated with this feast. The image of "Theotokos" is familiar: the focus is on Mary's birthing of Jesus, her bringing him into (human) being and giving him to the world. We are all called, by virtue of our common baptism, to be "Theotokos" in our world today, to bear Christ, to carry Christ to all of God's people. The call is sacred and should not be minimized or ignored. But the feast of Mary, the Mother of God also calls us to focus on Mary's mothering of God beyond Jesus' birth in a humble stable. Today's feast asks us to contemplate and respond to the call to care for Christ in the most ordinary yet most meaningful everyday ways. For me, this invitation calls me to reflect on and respond more meaningfully to the numerous opportunities in daily life to mother Christ, not in disempowering or condescending ways but in ways that lift up, empower, and allow Jesus to be more fully known and loved. The call to mother Christ is a call to make Christ available and be available to Christ in God's many faces, voices, and presences: to care for Christ by caring for all of God's people and creation.

2009

2009-01-01T10:32:00.003-05:00

... Love and joy

come to you,

and to you glad tidings, too!

And God bless you and send you a happy new year,

and God send you a happy new year!

(excerptedfrom the English Christmas Carol, "Here We Come A'Wassailing")

A Moral Issue

2008-12-29T10:16:00.004-05:00

http://www.witnesstorture.org/

January 11, 2009 will be a national day of fast to end torture and bring about the closure of Guantanamo. Framed as a matter of war strategy or a national security tool, torture is not in fact a political issue; it is a moral issue. A civilized society cannot stand idly by as its government engages in the practice of systematic torture. Torture is a violation of human rights and affront to the dignity of the human person. A civil society that practices torture, no matter what its justification, is at risk of losing its collective soul. As U.S.-eans, we must speak the truth and make clear that the systematic practice of torture by our government or its agents against human persons is not acceptable and must be stopped. The U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed this belief and recognizes what many of us already knew: torture is wrong and the U.S. government should be engaged in the practice of torture. Whether one is a political activitist, a human rights advocate, or a promoter of human life from conception to the grave, the issue of torture and the need to stop it is a moment in which we can all come together and stand side by side for life and human dignity. Now is the time for the federal government to follow through on the ruling of the Court and close Guantanamo Bay. Now we must let our federal lawmakers know what we believe about torture and why we recognize the need for Guantanamo to be closed permanently. For more information on the national campaign to end torture and close "Gitmo" click here .

Mark your calendar for January 11, a national day of fast to end torture, and consider how you will observe the 100 days against torture in 2009. Think about how you will observe January 11, 2009 and what you will do to call attention effectively and meaningfully to this issue during the 100 days that follow. Torture is not a political issue: torture is a moral issue that a civil society in the 21st century can no longer ignore.

Torture is not a political issue; torture is a moral issue.

Feast of the Holy Family

2008-12-28T09:42:00.004-05:00

Photo compliments of Sister Anne Joan Flanagan, FSP taken at St. Joseph's Church, Chicago, IL, Christmas 2008

Today is the feast of the Holy Family. The Franciscan Friars of St. Anthony Messenger have a thought-provoking podcast on today's liturgical readings at "The Sunday Soundbyte." Click here to read the reflection or here to listen to it.

Whatever shape or size or configuration your family is, whether it is born or chosen, may you know all the blessings, joys, and graces of being "family" in today's world. In the Holy Family of Nazareth, may you find inspiration and a model for what it means to love one another.

"Love Came Down at Christmas"

2008-12-25T22:08:00.002-05:00

Photo compliments of www.felicianslodi.org/

Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing...

As Midnight Mass began with choir and congregation joining in singing "O Come All Ye Faithful,"

this line stood out to me, encapsulating the essence of Christmas, the heart of what we celebrate:

Jesus, the Word of God, in human form,

now living (forevermore) among us...

Jesus, born in the likeness of (hu)man...

Jesus, our Brother, our Savior, our Lover.

O come, let us adore Him.

O come, let us adore Him.

O come, let us adore Him,

Christ the Lord!

Advent 4: Behold!

2008-12-21T21:20:00.000-05:00

The four candles are all now lighted, lighting the path to Christmas, announcing that God is indeed near. Today's gospel tells us of Mary's surrender to the Divine will of God: "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. Be it done unto me according to your Word."

Imagine the young Mary, surrendered to the Will of God, even when the word of the angel could not make sense in any human terms. "How can this be - I do not know man?" That was Mary's reaction, yet with the same breath, she prayed the ultimate Fiat: "Be it done unto me according to your word." With that the angel left her and the Son of God, Jesus Christ, was made Incarnate within her womb. Imagine!

Mary's Fiat -- that is the depth to which we are called. Yet in our human experience that depth of Fiat is often a lifelong journey comprised of many small yet significant "Yes"es along the way. Blessed Pauline wrote in her Retreat notes (the exact year I don't recall at the moment), "The moment I realize God's will for me I must relinquish everything, even that which I cherish most." Like Mary, Pauline surrendered totally and completely to the Will of God, casting herself into the security of the palm of His hand, trusting that He would bring to completion the good work He had begun, the path which he carved out for her.

Today, as we approach the feast of Christmas, the feast of the Incarnation, the story of Mary's Fiat asks us to contemplate ourselves in the place of Mary and consider the daily Fiats to which God invites us. In the words of a song I composed many years ago, "With Mary, let us say, 'Here I am!'."

An Invitation

2008-12-20T07:55:00.002-05:00

Photo compliments of http://www.scceast.org/

Have you ever felt a call within you to share your life in service to God's people through the consecrated life? Do you wonder if God is calling you to life as a religious Sister? Do you feel comfortable with the idea that God is inviting you to consider living out your one amazing life through the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience? Would it be nice to have a weekend away on holy ground to consider these questions more directly in a no-pressure supportive environment?

If you have answered "yes" to any of these questions, then please consider the invitation of the Sisters of Christian Charity to attend a weekend discernment retreat at Mallinckrodt Convent, the motherhouse of the U.S Eastern Province. Further information about the retreat is available here and if you drop by the SCC Eastern Province homepage and scroll down beneath the picture you will find an interesting short video about the SCC community.

Will you be RSVP'ing for this special invitation?

Advent 3: Gaudete (Rejoice!)

2008-12-14T22:37:00.000-05:00

Continuing to reflect on the practice of Maryistic waiting throughout this week, my arrival at the Third Sunday of Advent reminds me that the waiting is not over: In the context of Advent, God's time has not yet come, but like Mary, I am able to appreciate the foretelling of the prophet Isaiah of the joy that would become hers, that would become each of ours:

[Because] the spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me; he has sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor, to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners, to announce a year of favor from the LORD and a day of vindication by our God.

Isaiah foreshadows the joy that would be Mary's "Magnificat":

[So therefore] I rejoice heartily in the LORD, in my God is the joy of my soul; for he has clothed me with a robe of salvation and wrapped me in a mantle of justice, like a bridegroom adorned with a diadem, like a bride bedecked with her jewels. As the earth brings forth its plants, and a garden makes its growth spring up, so will the Lord GOD make justice and praise spring up before all the nations.

With Mary, I wait. Patiently, I wait for the coming feast of the Incarnation, the celebration of the Word Made Flesh, Emmanuel - God with us.

How is your Advent going?

It's Officially (Almost) Christmas!

2008-12-11T23:01:00.001-05:00

Yes, that's right. Now it feels like Christmas: I have heard the Daughters of Saint Paul live in concert. That means Christmas is near. Since they began their Christmas concert ministry tour a few years ago, usually I would hear (and see) them at St. Paul's in Princeton. This year, however, they have expanded their tour and in the process changed some venues in order to extend their outreach and introduce themselves to new audiences. As a result, I had to figure out when and where I'd see them. As it turned out, the only performance that matched a free night for me was the final one, the one at Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Northeast Philadelphia. Actually that location was closer than the other NJ I had considered but the weather was a bit of a challenge the night I went to see in addition to my speedometer which stopped working correctly. In any case, the trip was well worth it. As always, this amazingly talented group of Sisters gave an inspiring, warm, and artistically well-executed performance. The singing and the dancing were great. I am happy to report that Sister Anne's "O Holy Night" returned for this year's program (her voice is like the purest crystal especially at the uppermost notes). I was happy to have a chance to talk with my friend, Sister Anne, and to meet in person Sister Helena. A new encounter for me was Sister Julia's solo: "Con Te Partiro" ("With You I Go") was an unexpected piece but oh so beautiful and personally very touching. Sister Nancy's "Angels Among Us" is always a centerpiece to the program. I could go on about each element of the program, but you get the idea. Each Sister on the stage and behind the scenes deserves enormous applause and thanks. Sister Bridget, the music director/conductor, is outstanding. Congratulations on another blessed concert tour! May you each have a most blessed Christmas and a grace-filled new year!!

Advent 2 - Waiting Patiently

2008-12-07T10:55:00.005-05:00

Image Courtesy of the SCC Generalate Website (2007)

This year, "wait patiently," the central theme of the second Sunday of Advent, is brought alive in a singular way with two significant feasts of Mary that take place during this coming week, the feast of Mary's Immaculate Conception and the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (more on the feasts specifically to come). Waiting patiently is a true Marian characteristic, a "Mary-ism," to use a variation on a term developed by an "aunt" of mine. It's not only that Mary waited patiently or patiently waited but it's how she embodied patience, how she lived out the meaning of "patient waiting."

Much of Mary's life was lived in waiting patiently. As a young Jewish woman, her faith life was centered on awaiting the Messiah. As a young girl, she did not know that it would be through her Fiat that the Messiah would come, yet as a Jewish girl growing up in the faith-filled home of Anna and Yakim she prayed and praised in patient waiting. When the angel Gabriel came to her and with her Fiat she conceived of the Holy Spirit, she began her waiting for the birth of Jesus, yet she did not wait on herself in the meantime; instead she went to Elizabeth and waited with her and tended to her for the birth of John (the Baptist). On the journey to Bethlehem, she with Joseph waited for a place in which to birth Jesus and then in the time that followed she again demonstrated patient waiting as the Shepherds and later the Kings came to honor Jesus. The Flight into Eqypt, the Child Jesus lost in the Temple, the every day occurrences of raising a young boy -- in all these things, Mary lived patient waiting. When Jesus began his public ministry, at the Feast of Cana, after suggesting to Jesus that he do something about the wine, Mary waited patiently for his time to come. On the way to Calvary and at the foot of the Cross, again Mary embodies patient waiting. Following Jesus' death, holding her Son's lifeless body in her arms, she lives patient waiting. Gathered with the disciples, before the Resurrection and again after the Ascension, Mary lives in patient waiting. Following the descent of the Holy Spirit, with John as her side, she lives out her life in patient waiting, moving towards the day she will be alive in everlasting glory with the Father, Son, and Spirit one. In fact, Mary now assumed into heaven, alive for eternity, now waits patiently on us.

Patient waiting, Marian-style, is not a passive act, not a passive posture. It is an attitude of intense engagement in the moment, being alert to the grace of God in the moment, not losing sight of opportunities for encountering God in the present. Patient waiting as Mary lived it is an act of total openness to be available to God "in the meantime." It's about being all one can be in that period of waiting, in that period we might be tempted to call "the meantime." The period of waiting in Mary's view is not incidental: it is the journey and it is as important as the destination.

So as we patiently (a)wait Christmas, let us endeavor to live Maryistic patient waiting, living in the moment, "allowing Advent to Advent so that Christmas can be Christmas" (original source: unknown).

What ideas do you have for Maryistic patient waiting in today's world?

How can each of us endeavor to live Maryistic patient waiting more authentically in our own lives today?

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

2008-12-06T22:34:00.000-05:00

St. Nicholas, pray for us!

Having attended a Catholic elementary school named after Saint Nicholas, December 6 is always a special remembrance (it was also my +great aunt's birthday). This year it just so happened that our parish Sacred Arts and Music series was able to host a presentation of Frederick Olessi's "Francesco" with a Mass in Celebration of the Birth of Jesus.

The dramatic presentation which includes spoken word and song culminates in a live presepio (we even had a real "Baby Jesus" although the animals had to be the stuffed version since we have a new carpet in the church) and the finale with the entire gathering joining in singing "Joy to the World" with lit candles as the presepio scene processes out of the Church (symbolically going in the peace of Francis to take Christ to the world). Francis is credited with, at the direction of the Lord, putting together the first creche to honor the birth of Christ as a human.

The falling snow (although at first it was cause for worry in terms of audience turnout) was a blessed touch adding to the spirit of anticipation for the arrival of Christmas and the commemoration of Jesus' birth.

Father's homily was spot on, acknowledging the shape in the world currently is and recognizing the promise of hope that Jesus remains for us all. He amazingly wove together seamlessly the readings and liturgy of the second Sunday of Advent with "Francesco."

So, this year my feast of Saint Nicholas was spent in very Franciscan tradition, but somehow it all worked well. (Actually, earlier in the week I had the opportunity to partake in an anticipated celebration of the feast with some of the Sisters so St. Nicholas wasn't omitted.) After helping to de-construct the individual candles and clear up any remaining programs from the pews, I was tired but energized and very happy that I had participated in the event.

A happy feast day to our Sister Nicholas and to all the Nicoles (Nicole, FMI!), Nic(h)olas, Nikkis, and other namesakes of Saint Nicholas!

St. Nicholas, pray for us! And St. Francis, too!

Martyrs of El Salvador, Pray for Us!

2008-12-02T17:18:00.001-05:00

December 2, 1980... Twenty eight years ago armed masked men, on orders of the Salvadoran military officials who had been trained at the "School of the Americas" on the U.S. Army base at Fort Benning (Columbus, GA), raped and murdered Maryknoll Sisters Maura Clarke and Ita Ford, Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel, and Missioner Jean Donovan, missionaries who lived and worked among the Salvadoran people, side by side, in response to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through their lives and their deaths, they willingly and knowingly and unreservedly accepted "the same fate of the poor" (this is the title of a biography of Ita Ford published by Orbis Books).

There is an entire generation or two that has no personal knowledge of that fateful night on a dark road traveling from the San Salvador Airport to Chalatenango. Yet the legacy of these women's lives and the truth about their deaths and the promise of hope that lives on because of who they remain continues to inspire and motivate because even though twenty-eight years has passed still each year countless numbers of us pause deliberately to remember them, to remember Archbishop Romero, to remember the tens of thousands disappeared and murdered, and the 100,000s of displaced.

This year's anniversary of the rape and murder of is different than all those of year's past: this year the anniversary comes and Ita's brother Bill, who immediately following her death, took up the cause of truth and fight for justice in El Salvador, died earlier this year following a battle with cancer. Surrounded by his beloved wife and children, he closed his eyes to this world and without a doubt when he opened his eyes in the next he was immediately welcomed home by Ita whom he so dearly loved and missed.

As we celebrate the lives of these women, let us also give thanks in particular for the witness and courage of the Ford, Clark, Kazel, and Donovan families and the Maryknoll and Ursuline communities and especially for the multiple ways in which Bill in particular challenged us in the same way he challenged himself to walk the walk. Bill, may you rest in peace and in the embrace of our most loving God may you enjoy seeing Ita once again face-to-face! And may your spirit, along with Maura, Ita, Dorothy, and Jean, remain with us in our struggles for peace and justice always reminding us to never forget the people of El Salvador who still today need our "accompanimiento."

World AIDS Day 2008

2008-12-01T17:11:00.000-05:00

In Loving Remembrance ... Because Remembering Still Matters

Visit the SCC JPIC Blog for a beautiful prayer of remembrance.

Advent 1 - My Soul in Stillness Waits...

2008-11-30T17:01:00.002-05:00

Advent has arrived. Our time of waiting, expectation, and stillness. The lighting of the first candle on the Advent wreath signifies a flicker of light illuminating our way to the birth of the Light of the World which we look to celebrate on Christmas. A tiny little light, a tiny little baby. Barely noticeable, either one, yet filled with the promise of all that is and is yet to be. The tiny flame that tops the first candle of the Advent wreath reminds me of the bright light that lives within me, Jesus Himself. The tiny flickering flame calls me to enter into the stillness on the journey towards Christmas.

A New Look

2008-11-28T10:39:00.003-05:00

With the end of another Church year and the start of a new one, I decided to give my blog a new look, nothing fancy, but just some "fresh paint," you might say. I hope you find the change inviting and relaxing.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T10:31:00.000-05:00

Photo courtesy of the Felician Sisters website: http://www.felicianslodi.org/

In the words of a song by Gregory Norbert (formerly of Weston Priory), my thanksgiving prayer for you:

"With thanksgiving to God, [my] prayer is

always filled with profound joy for you.

When [I] think of the strength you are for others,

letting God live in you with such beauty and truth."

I'm Still Here...

2008-11-02T17:49:00.001-05:00

I haven't been blogging for quite sometime since unexpectedly for the past six weeks much of my time has not been my own. However, things appear to be returning to usual (I won't say "normal") so I hope to get back in the swing of things. I have so many thoughts swirling around my mind, things I want to contemplate and share, but it will take some time to get through them all. In the meantime, expect an elections reflection from me ... very VERY soon!

In the Palm of God's Hands

2008-09-01T21:09:00.003-04:00

Loving God, this night especially watch over our brothers and sisters along the Gulf Coast and the Eastern seaboard as Hurricanes Gustav and Hanna and Tropical Storm Ike pass through and pass by the region. Sustain the strength of the levees by the power of Your name. Keep us all ever safe in You!

With the psalmist, let us pray for them,

"Keep me safe, O God, I take refuge in You."

Remembering Katrina (and Rita, too)...

2008-08-29T23:53:00.004-04:00

In remembrance of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and that devastation she brought, I re-post a 2005 post:

The ripples of Hurricane Katrina continue to reach out and enfold even as the flood waters begin gradually to recede. The tragedy and depth of human need post-Katrina continues to move me to the core of my being. This week I received a beautiful reflection, "Canticle of New Orleans." It was written by Sister Margaret Charles Kerry, FSP. It bears with it a request that the Canticle be shared far and wide and with it ongoing prayers for recovery, healing, and renewal so I am passing it on to you. Visit http://transformingtheworld.blogspot.com for more information.

Canticle of New Orleans

By Margaret Charles Kerry, fsp

Waters of the earth, bless your Maker.

be kind to the people who need you to quench their thirst.

Hold back your raging destruction of flood and overflowing banks.

Be kind to the city that sings about you in legend,

that travels over you to unknown places.

Unite people - do not disperse them.

Waters of the earth, bless the Lord!

Winds of sky, bless your Maker.

Keep cool breezes flowing over the people of God.

Keep away disease and danger by your healing movement.

Hold back your anger in storm and destructive power in tornado.

Be kind to the city that knows when you caress the land

and keep the heat from overtaking the plants and livestock.

Remind people of God's care.

Winds of the sky, bless the Lord!

City of humanity, bless your Maker.

Keep your people safe who have built you.

Allow them to write music,

sing, play and dance in praise of God-given life.

Keep those in leadership from misusing

what is gifted by the unity of men and women, children and family.

Be kind to the City that brings happiness to so many.

Be kind to her history that tells the human story.

May the city be a city on a hill that shines God's light.

May your music, dance, and food be a foretaste of the eternal banquet.

City of humanity, bless the Lord!

People of God, bless your Maker.

Keep hope in your hearts in time of distress.

Give hope to those around you

and know that you are loved by those who worry about you in your distress.

Reach out to those who are near.

Reach from afar in times of trouble

– reach in prayer if you can't reach physically.

Let us ask forgiveness when our response to trouble

seems slow and unthoughtful.

Open your hearts to those who are vulnerable.

People of God, bless the Lord!

People of New Orleans, bless your Maker.

Know that you are loved.

Know that the rain, wind and water that bless the city

and surround it as a hug outside of times like this

will return to their banks and sky.

Your hope is our hope.

May we share what we have with you

as you share your faith with us.

We reach you in prayer

even as we long to reach you with a helping hand

and pluck you from distress.

We share in your distress

and hold in our hearts your pain and sorrow.

May God renew you!

People of New Orleans, bless the Lord!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Margaret Charles Kerry, FSP, is a native of New Orleans and a Daughter of St. Paul. She can be reached at Kerrysso@aol.com. Website: www.pauline.org; BLOG: www.transformingtheworld.blogspot.com. Copyright © 2005, Daughters of St. Paul. Reprinted with permission.Permission is granted for the free reproduction of the Canticle of New Orleans in newspapers, magazines, bulletins, websites, or in photocopied format, provided that the entire Canticle and the author byline and credit is printed with the Canticle.

2008 Eastern Province Jubilarians

2008-08-26T23:09:00.004-04:00

This is an image of pure beauty! Joined by the General and Provincial Superiors, pictured here at the congregational founding day and jubilee celebration are all of the 2008 Jubilarians from the SCC U.S. Eastern Province except for the four diamond (75 year) jubilarians and one silver (25) jubilarian. Take note of the Sister in the first row, third from the left: She celebrated 80 years of religious life as a Sister of Christian Charity!

Each of these women's journeys is a unique story of God's love alive in her life and through her life. Together they represent over one millennium of consecrated service, 1,305 years of religious life as Sisters of Christian Charity, to be exact.

While the number of years is impressive and inspiring enough, I thought a bit more about what that means on a day-to-day basis: 476,325 days; 11,431,800 hours; 685,908,000 minutes; 41,154,480,000 seconds. Over 41 billion seconds of ongoing surrender to God! (Can anyone figure out how many beats of the human heart?)

They are prayer ministers, spiritual directors, development associates, transportation ministers (a.k.a. drivers), pastoral care ministers, college librarians, high school teachers, kindergarten teachers, volunteers, former Superiors General and Provincial, missionaries, homemakers, and elementary school teachers. They come from Jersey City, NJ; Williamsport, PA; Philadelphia, PA; Baltimore, MD; and Bronx, NY, to name a few. They have ministered in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Florida, and Maryland, in the U.S.; in Uruguay in South America; and in Rome, Italy.

Imagine the lives touched, the people served, the inspiration shared! And still today, no matter how many years they have already lived in consecration to God, they each continue to live out the fullness of the evangelical counsels, their baptismal promises, and their religious professions.

To them, I say, "Thank you," and for them, I say, "Thank you, God!"

In the words of one of our community hymns, "For all we praise, and thank, and love!"

Photo courtesy of the SCC Generalate Photo Album .

Celebrating A Journey!

2008-08-24T11:28:00.002-04:00

Photo courtesy of the SCC Generalate Photo Album .

On August 20th, the Sisters of Christian Charity of the U.S. Eastern Province celebrated the reception of Sister Linda Marie into the Novitiate. Here Sister, now a first year or canonical novice, is pictured here with the two second year novices.

As Sister continues her journey in religious life and embarks upon the start of her life as "Sister," may she and all who seek to follow Christ in consecrated service find in Him the grace to say "yes" each day to God's call to love and serve as women and men set apart to be bread and wine for the life of the world.

First Profession of Vows

2008-08-18T22:40:00.003-04:00

Pictured are (from left to right) the Most Rev. Edgar da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., auxiliary bishop of Newark, and newly professed Sister Amy, SCC (Photo compliments of the Sisters of Christian Charity Generalate Website.)

On Saturday, the Sisters of Christian Charity celebrated the first profession of second year novice, Sister Amy. What a beautiful celebration of joy and promise! The liturgy beautifully integrated so many aspects of Sister Amy's journey and the Congregation's charism. Bishop's homily drew together the scriptures with the events of the rite of profession and reflected his own deep understanding of the vows as a religious. Bishop da Cunha is a professed member of the Vocationist Fathers. One point he underscored about the profession of religious vows so clearly articulated the relational dimensions of religious profession: Specifically Bishop da Cunha illustrated that the "profession of religious vows is made to God, through the Church, in [your] religious community, for the service of God and God's people." That clearly mapped set of relationships and interrelationships has stayed with me these past days and also reminded me of the covenant of Associates.

The joy in Sister's heart and in the community that celebrates her deeper integration into its religious life was tangible throughout the Liturgy, especially in the music, and in the sister-ship that followed during dinner.

May God abundantly bless Sister Amy and all novices who profess vows this season! May God grant them all they need to fulfill the words of their professions and may their consecration inspire others to dare to say "yes" to God's sacred invitation and call.

Congratulations, my Sisters!

2008-08-15T21:56:00.004-04:00

This week marks a series of special celebrations for the Sisters of Christian Charity in the North American Eastern Province . The festivities began yesterday afternoon when the seven temporary ("junior") professed Sisters renewed their vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience for one year. This photo is courtesy of our Superior General and the generalate website. The Sisters renewing their vows are standing in the back row with their current formation director who is standing in front of the statue of Our Lady. To see more community photos, visit the Generalate's Photo Album. May God continue to bless these Sisters abundantly as they daily live out the fullness of their Baptismal call in consecrated life. In the words of Blessed Pauline, let us pray: "Mary, my mother, let us go to the altar of God together: you, offering your Son, and I, myself with all that I am and have."

Back to Blogging

2008-08-10T07:24:00.003-04:00

Welcome, blog-itors! (That's blog speak for "visitors" :)

As I look at the date, I cannot believe how long it has been since I have posted on my blog. In the time since my surgery, I have been getting back into the full swing of things (as well as dealing with the array of opportunities and challenges life presents) but somehow, although I've been checking in on friends' blogs, have not carved out the time to post here. Part of the problem is that my list of things about which to blog was growing faster than I could keep up with it. Now I have decided to simply get back into the swing of blogging and as time and opportunity present get to the list.

So here I am! I have made good progress so far since my surgery. I am still, until at least the end of September, on a restricted diet in that I cannot chew and definitely can't crunch, but that's fine. I'm happy to make accommodations in order to protect my jaw from fracture as the bone fills in. I still have facial numbness on the lower right side, but that, too, the surgeon said is to be expected for up to four months. It's manageable, and every day my face feels less strange so the nerve must be on its way to restoration.

I thank all of you who have not only been patient in checking in on me but also so kind and faithful in praying for me. I appreciate it greatly and am looking forward to returning to more regular blogging. With the Olympics under way and the presidential conventions coming soon, I anticipate a broad range of seemingly unrelated but hopefully thoughtprovoking topics for posting.

Have a blessed Sunday!

A Brief Update On the Power of Prayer

2008-05-25T11:12:00.000-04:00

Hi, friends,

Just a quick note to say "hi" and thank you for your prayers and encouragement.

I truly believe in the power of prayer. My surgery seems to have gone well, at least so far, and now I am in recuperation mode. In addition to the swelling and bruising (which is still emerging), I have to be cautious in eating for an extended time to come as my jaw is at increased risk for fracture until the bone grows back in completely. I have a follow-up with the surgeon on June 3rd. Then I will know more; for now, I am taking it easy.

That's about it for now. Thanks again for your support and please keep the prayers coming.

I Believe in the Power of Prayer!

2008-05-21T09:22:00.002-04:00

I am a rather private person. Usually I write with news and prayer requests for others. This time I'm writing with a prayer request for myself.

Tomorrow I am scheduled to have the first surgery of my life. During a routine dental exam in March, x-rays revealed that a cyst is growing around an unerrupted wisdom tooth which is now horizontally impacted (lower right side). The cyst, which the doctor expects to be benign but will biopsied to be certain, had made its way into my lower jaw and is deteriorating the bone so both cyst and tooth must be removed before they cause the jaw to break.

The surgery is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Thursday morning, May 22. The doctor anticipates the procedure will take about 1 1/2 hours if all goes smoothly.

I will offer up the experience for you and your intentions.

I count on your prayers!

God created it and saw it was good!

2008-04-22T06:37:00.005-04:00

Image compliments of Sister Susan Rose, csjp-n, at http://www.actjustly.blogspot.com/

From the Sisters of Christian Charity:

On Sunday April 6, 2008, the Sisters of Christian Charity of the North American Eastern Province adopted the following Provincial Statement on Ecology:
"Because we recognize creation as God's gift to us, the Sisters of Christian Charity are committed to a harmonious and interdependent relationship with the earth and its creatures. We will be guided by the principles of sustainability and environmental accountability in our decisions and actions as we claim our responsibility toward self, others, and all of creation."
Guided by this statement, we hope to continue our mission of giving and receiving Christ's love, joy, peace, and healing for the life of the world.

"Holy Father, keep in Thy name ..."

2008-04-20T22:12:00.003-04:00

The Holy Father is well enroute back to the Vatican having concluded his six day apostolic journey to the United States. My experience of his visit has been very rich, and I know I will be unpacking the new found treasures for sometime to come. Hopefully over the course of the next few days I will be able to share a few initial observations. But for now, I want to mark the conclusion of his visit to US with prayers of gratitude for what he shared and prayers of petition for his safe journey back to the Vatican.

15th Anniversary of the Beatification of M. Mary Angela (Sophie) Truskowska, cssf

2008-04-18T20:22:00.002-04:00

Today Felician Sisters around the world are celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of the beatification of their foundress, Mother Mary Angela. Click here to hear how the Felician Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Province (Lodi, NJ) celebrated the occasion.

Seventh Annual ACS Caring Basket Gala

2008-04-17T12:34:00.005-04:00

Touching the World One Sister at a Time!

This evening Assumption College for Sisters hosts is annual Caring Basket Gala, the college's major fundraiser to support its work and provide the revenues needed to support the full scholarships it awards to 25 international women religious each year to pursue their theological formation and Associates degree at ACS.

This year's Gala honorees are:

Education Award

Most Reverend Giles Hayes, OSB, Abbot of St. Mary's Abbey, Delbarton School, Morristown NJ

Lifetime Achievement Award

Reverend Monsignor John R. Torney, first Vicar General of the Diocese of Metuchen and pastor emeritus of St. Elizabeth's Church, Bernardsville, NJ

Service Award

Attorney Michael Critchley, Esq., alumni of Seton Hall University School of Law and graduate of Saint Augustine's Elementary School, Newark NJ (The Sisters of Christian Charity used to staff St. Augustine's; now it is the residence and ministry of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta's Missionaries of Charity)

Join us in celebrating the invaluable contributions these individuals make to the Church and the community-at-large! Support us in supporting ACS .

Official U.S.C.C.B. Papal Visit Website & Blog

2008-04-17T11:27:00.005-04:00

Treat yourself to a visit to the United States Catholic Conference papal visit website. There are many resources there, including the texts of the Holy Father's speeches and homilies, the Papal Visit missal, and lots of other good information including a blog that allows visitors to comment (even leave a Happy Birthday message for the Pope). Technology enables us to accompany the visit in a different way than past visits and allows us, if we wish, to enter more deeply into the experience of a papal visit. Television has enabled us partially to have such experiences during past papal visits, but new technologies enables us to connect with others in the experience in a different way.

Celebrate the love of Christ Our Hope!

In Memoriam

2008-04-16T21:34:00.002-04:00

Remembering the lives lost at VA Tech...

Welcome, Holy Father, and ...

2008-04-16T18:30:00.004-04:00

... Happy Birthday!

Yes, the Pope should have a birthday cake, too, right?

And as I searched a little further, I discovered that he was gifted with a papal birthday cake, U.S. style, during one of his stops on his visit around Washington, DC today!

Birthday Wishes

Pope Benedict, may your days among us be a time for clarity, renewal, and unity and may the challenges that face the Church in the United States today become an opportunity for more deeply becoming the Church God calls us to be.

Remembering A Good Priest, A Good Friend

2008-04-14T17:23:00.006-04:00

Rev. Hugh V. Fitzgerald

April 14, 192? - December 31, 1999

+++

Today I also remember an amazing priest friend

who now enjoys his eternal reward.

Happy Birthday, Fr. Fitz!

We love you and still miss you!!

April 14, 1985

2008-04-14T17:06:00.006-04:00

On April 14, 1985, Pope John Paul II declared Pauline von Mallinckrodt among the "Blesseds" of the Catholic Church, moving her one step closer to recognition as a canonized saint and enabling public devotion to her to take place liturgically as well as prayers in private.

What a blessed event M. Pauline's beatification was and how we work daily so that God's love may continue to be known through her.

Join us in praying that God may continue be made manifest through her intercession and that her holiness may recognized worldwide as a way of Christian living through her canonization during the reign of Pope Benedict XVI, if God so wills.

Click here to learn more about Mother Pauline's life and way of holiness, seeing in God in all and loving God in all.

Click here to access the Italian version of the homily Pope John Paul II delivered at the Beatification Mass for the Servants of God Pauline von Mallinckrodt and Catherine Troiani.

Now that she is beatified the Church marks her feast day on April 30th. Liturgically speaking, an optional memorial, but for us, it is a day of deep gratitude as we recall the anniversary of her homegoing and give thanks for the life which she marked out for us. Here's a list of other holy ones' feasts observed on April 30th.

A Salute to Jasmine

2008-04-12T15:46:00.000-04:00

I want to give special recognition to a young friend of the family, 19 year old Jasmine. Several months ago, Jasmine learned that she was pregnant. Unwed and about to finish her final year of high school, Jasmine could very easily have opted to terminate the pregnancy by having an abortion. Given her childhood experiences and the future that lay before her, the pressures in this day and age and the temptation to have an abortion were probably great. However, Jasmine, with the support of her mother, made her choice for life.

Today was the baby shower for Jasmine. I wasn't able to be there in person, but I really want to let Jasmine know that I support her decision to bring her baby into the world and I want others like Jasmine to be encouraged in their choices for life. Sure, it may not be easy and it may mean making adjustments in life, but accepting the gift of life is a gift from God and with God's grace things can work out for all involved.

Thinking about this, though, I gained another insight: We who say we are "pro-life" or that "we stand for life" need to be sure that we are only being theoretical but also that we are living that principle in practice by honoring those who make choices for life and by standing in support and speaking for those who have made these choices for life.

The next time I find myself in a discussion about "welfare" benefits for single mothers or state-provided health insurance for children, I am going to say a prayer of gratitude for the many who have made and continue to make choices for life on a daily basis.

What will you do to choose life today?

+Pope John Paul II

2008-04-02T08:27:00.000-04:00

It's true: we still love you!

With someone who has been a part of your world for over 25 years, it's hard to believe that it is three years since his death. Pope John Paul II was not the only Pope I had known (I was born during the reign of Pope Paul VI and remember his death and the election and soon-to-follow death of Pope John Paul I), but John Paul II was certainly a defining ecclesial presence throughout my youth and early adulthood.

While it's certainly true that I did not personally agree with his personal opinions on every thing, I had (and continue to have) a deep appreciation for his person as well as his pontificate. Besides his deep Eucharistic and Marian love, his sharp intellect and zest for life and people were trademarks that reflected something much deeper. It's that legacy and the richness of his global Catholic leadership that continue to provide so much inspiration.

Soon after his death, I was inspired to honor his life by composing a song memorializing some of his key teachings. Here are a glimpse at the lyrics, never before shared publicly:

SONG OF GOD'S SERVANT
In memory of His Holiness John Paul II (1927 - 2005)

Be not afraid,
Christ is before you.
Open wide your doors to Christ
go out into the world and share the Good News.

Have courage
be strong hearted
(have courage)
and filled with love.

Choose life, have no fear.
Christ is your life and guide.
He walks right with you and near.

Totus tuus.
All is yours.
Forevermore.
In the hand of our God.
I love you.
You have come
and are here with me now.

Thank God for you.
I love you.
Be not afraid.
God is ever here.
Be not afraid.
God’s love’s ever near.

+Remembering Terri Schiavo

2008-03-31T23:40:00.002-04:00

December 3, 1963 - March 31, 2005

Prayer in Remembrance of Terri

Lord God,

I thank you today for the gift of my life,

And for the lives of all my brothers and sisters.

I know that life is always a good,

and that it never loses its value

when it is beset by weakness or injury.

Lord, thank you

for the life of Terri Schindler-Schiavo.

Even in her suffering and death

She revealed Your glory

and truth that life is always sacred.

As I remember Terri,

I also commit myself

to be active in the pro-life movement,

And never to stop defending life

Until all my brothers and sisters are protected,

And our nation once again becomes

A nation with liberty and justice

Not just for some, but for all,

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen!

Prayer compliments of www.terrisfight.org.

Visit the website for more information and resources.

Second Sunday of Easter as the Solemnity of Divine Mercy

2008-03-30T07:47:00.005-04:00

"I pour out a whole ocean of graces

upon those souls

who approach the fount of my mercy."

As www.catholic.org notes, "This day we are invited to approach the throne of Mercy and cry out with St. Thomas: 'My Lord and My God' (Jn 20:28)." While I have had a deep appreciation for the Divine Mercy of Jesus and the revelations of this Mercy to Saint Faustina, I, like many other "liturgists" have had a bit of difficulty resolving the Solemnity of Divine Mercy in place of the Second Sunday of Easter. However, over time and with the gift of some grace-filled insights I have come to realize that it consists within the fifty day celebration of Easter and does not interrupt the celebration as some assert. The image of Divine Mercy I share here draws my attention to the connection. So, as we continue to contemplate God's great love for us shown in the death and resurrection of Jesus, let us, too, recognize that Mercy is also God's love gift to us and that it was because of His love and His mercy that Jesus was sent to redeem and save us. As we are invited, let us with Thomas pray in grateful love,

"My Lord and my God!

Water of Life ...

2008-03-27T23:39:00.001-04:00

What is the water that gives you life?

What is the water that quenches your thirst?

What is the water that satisfies you?

Easter Wednesday

2008-03-26T21:13:00.002-04:00

Courtesy of www.sccgen.org

Jesus lives!

+Archbishop Oscar A. Romero

2008-03-24T21:48:00.003-04:00

!Viva, Romero, en nuestros corazones!

No hay amor mas grande, que dar la vida por los amigos...

Live, Romero, in our hearts!

There is no greater love than to give one's life for one's friend.

"Cantico al Martir"/"Canticle for a Martyr" -- Lisa, 1985

Twenty-eight years ago earlier this evening, the Archbishop of San Salvador, El Salvador, Oscar Arnulfo Romero, was martyred, shot in cold blood, while celebrating Holy Mass in the Chapel of the Hospital. The "voice for the voiceless," his life and death call us to continue to speak for those whose voices are silenced, those whose existences are marginalized, those whose lives are invisibilized for the benefit of the powerful.

In many ways, it's hard to believe that it happened over a quarter of a century ago. It seems like only yesterday, my memory of that year as clear as crystal. While reality is different for the Salvadoran people in a number of tangible ways, the world is not so different than it was in 1980 when Romero was murdered. An attempt to silence his speaking of the truth, murdering him only made his voice, the voice of truth, resonate louder and more widely. The truth of the Gospel cannot be silenced: it is God's truth; it is a truth that crosses over boundaries, a truth that cannot be contained by hatred.

Eternal rest grant to Archbishop Romero. May He rest in peace and may we be strengthened in our resolve to be faithful to the Gospel to the end of our days and for the sake of all God's children and creations.

Eternal rest grant unto all those who have given their lives or have had their lives taken because of their work for justice, their work for the Gospel.

Easter Among Us, Around Us, Within Us!

2008-03-24T19:06:00.002-04:00

Mary recognized Jesus. Do I?

"Women, Faith, and Development" Project at The National Cathedral

2008-03-23T16:47:00.003-04:00

As He Said...

2008-03-23T11:36:00.003-04:00

Yes, Jesus is Risen!

Alleluia! Alleluia!! Alleluia!!!

Holy Saturday Mo[u]rning

2008-03-22T10:16:00.004-04:00

Keeping watch.

Final moments.

Last breath.
Death.

Tears.

Beholding a loved one.

Preparing for burial.

Final goodbyes.

Loved one laid to rest.

Going home.

Crowds gone.

Alone and wondering.

"Where is God?"

"Where is the loved one?"

Remembering what was said.

"Will the Word be fulfilled?"

People gone.

All alone.

Burial past.

No repast.

Back at home.

The rest of life.

What's its meaning?

Saturday morning of mourning.

Dark and dreary.

Raindrops fall.

Snowflakes flurry.

My God, my all.

You are my hope.

Do not abandon me, I pray.

I trust in You.

Scare my fears away.

Keeping watch,

but the loved one's gone.

So it seems, but so unsure.

What shall I do?

Is God near? Am I sure?

Morning of mourning,

it is here.

What shall I do

but hope,

pray,

believe:

God is near!

Prayer of an Anonymous Sojourner

His Obituary

2008-03-21T10:30:00.003-04:00

Click on the image or here to read Jesus' Obituary.

"Will you...?

2008-03-20T22:19:00.003-04:00

"Stay here, and keep watch with me,

the hour has come.

Stay here,

and keep watch with me.

Watch,

and pray!"

Refrain from Taize's "Stay Here"

Jesus invites YOU...

2008-03-20T07:12:00.003-04:00

to enter into the Sacred Triduum with Him.

No RSVP necessary,

only your presence,

your prayer,

your love.

Bearing Witness to the Peace of Christ

2008-03-19T10:28:00.001-04:00

Bishop Gabino Zavala, the bishop-president of Pax Christi USA: National Catholic Peace Movement and an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, wrote a column being circulated by the Catholic News Service marking the fifth anniversary of the U.S. War on Iraq. He starts his column by noting:

The fifth anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq, March 19, falls in Holy Week this year—a poignant reminder of the human cost and prolonged suffering taking place in that country. Five years after the invasion, the spiral of violence unleashed by the war continues to cause tremendous suffering on all sides, including our own military and their families, with no end in sight.

To read the complete column, click here .

Hosanna!

2008-03-16T10:33:00.008-04:00

Image borrowed from http://www.sermons4kids.com/

Palm Sunday is here, the day we commemorate liturgically the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The stark juxtaposition of Palm Sunday with Good Friday is clear: the glorious excitement and welcome expressed for Jesus as He arrived versus the dark bleak abandonment and distance of Good Friday. The traditions of today's liturgy are familiar: processions, blessings of palm branches, resonating "Hosannas," and the narrated Gospel reading of Jesus' Passion. Whether marked with traditional hymns accompanied by organ or contemporary songs accompanied by guitar (or any combination the two), the message of today's liturgy calls us to enter into the experience of Holy Week.

But what is really that we, today in the year 2008, that we are called to enter? Certainly we are called spiritually to re-enter the experiences of that first Holy Week and reflect on the enormous love God has for us, the love God has for each one of us, and to experience in a deeper way our personal intimate relationship with Jesus. But I think there's something else that we are called to in a special way this week: to consider, recognize, and embrace the modern day Holy Week that takes place in the world around us.

What are the modern day triumphal entries of Jesus in our lives?

Where is it that we join the crowds is welcoming Jesus in our midst?

Where is it that we sit down at table with Jesus, that we break bread with Him, that we allow Him to feed us, where we share a meal of God-life with others?

Where is it today that Jesus suffers agony in the garden?

Where is it that people/the authorities come to imprison Jesus?

Where is it that we see Jesus betrayed or we ourselves betray Jesus?

Where is it that Jesus is abandoned in his hour of need?

Where is it that Jesus is sentenced to death?

Where is it that Jesus is forced to carry a cross -- and carry it alone?

Where is it that the Veronicas of the world step forward to ease the pain of Jesus?

Where is it that the Simons of the world are obliged to help Jesus?

Where is it that Jesus dies on a cross?

Where is it that the faithful of the faithful -- the Marys, the Johns -- continue to stand with/for Jesus?

Where is it that there is no place for Jesus to be laid to rest after death?

Where is it that the Mother of God weeps for her son who has died, where the Mother of God holds her Son in her arms?

Where is it that the Josephs of Arimithea come forward to provide for Jesus and his Mother in need?

Where is it that Jesus rises among us?

Powerful, pausing, lifetime questions. Yet more remain:

In the story of Jesus' triumph, passion, death, and resurrection, who am I?

Where do I fit in the living gospel of Holy Week today?

**********

As you seek answers to the questions of your own Holy Week path,

may your journey be blessed and grace-filled!

Approaching the Holiest Week of the Year

2008-03-15T12:32:00.004-04:00

Behold the face of Him Whom we follow,

Behold His face in those whom we serve,

Behold His heart within each and every one of us!

Behold Him, Behold Jesus!

International Women's Day

2008-03-08T09:49:00.006-05:00

Photo courtesy of Assumption College for Sisters

Today is International Women's Day . There will be many different observances of this day throughout the world, some through celebrations, some just by living the day-to-day material realities of being women in today's world. Click here to hear this year's global message on International Women's Day.

Through my blog, I want to mark this international observance and draw attention to the women of the world in our rich diversity and extraordinary accomplishment and still-to-be fully realized possibility. As I plugged in my laptop, I thought about what would be the most meaningful way to achieve this connection through my blog. Then, the obvious became crystal clear to me: share the story of Assumption College for Sisters.

Assumption College for Sisters, or ACS, is a sponsored work of the Sisters of Christian Charity-Eastern U.S. Province, part of an international congregation founded in 1849 in Germany by Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt. Originally ACS was a junior college founded by the Sisters to provide education and training for young women in formation to be Sisters of Christian Charity. While originally affiliated as a satellite site for Seton Hall College (now Seton Hall University), the College became separately incorporated and accreditated by the State of New Jersey and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education over 50 years ago to award associate degrees and certificates in theology and philosophy.

As a Sister Formation College, ACS provided an opportunity for education and religious formation not only for the SCCs postulants, novices, and junior professed Sisters but also for postulants, novices, and junior professed Sisters from other women's religious communities in the local area. For many years, among the most frequent students of ACS were the Sisters of Christian Charity, the Filippini Sisters, the Vocationist Sisters, and the Franciscan Sisters of Saint Elizabeth.

While students who were born outside the U.S. have often been part of the ACS student body, during the course of the past almost ten years, ACS has expanded its reach through a special focus on providing educational opportunities to women religious from developing nations in Africa and Asia. Together with postulants and novices of the Sisters of Christian Charity, over two dozen women religious from various African countries and the Asian country of VietNam receive a top quality academic and religious education at ACS. These international students are the beneficiaries of full academic and room-and-board scholarships, most at this time provided by the Sisters of Christian Charity, in order that they can benefit fully from the opportunities available to them. While many of the ACS graduates go on to complete baccalaureate (and some, even Masters) degrees upon their graduation from ACS, the ultimate goal is that they will return to their home countries to put their education at the service of the people and their communities.

The work done at ACS is amazing. The more benefactors who help support this work, the more that can be accomplished for the betterment of the world. Whether you are a person in discernment, a professed religious or ordained priest, a faith-filled Catholic, a charitable donor, a dedicated volunteer, or just someone who'd like to know about the treasure that is Assumption College for Sisters , be sure to treat yourself to a cybervisit and feel free to contact ACS if you'd like more information. (And if you happen to be a woman in discernment or a lay person interested in studying philosophy or theology, be sure to check out the opportunities that ACS has for you, too.)

For a welcome from ACS President Sister of Christian Charity Mary Joseph Schultz, click here. To learn about the student body and the communities and countries from which the Sister students come, click here. For information on degree programs offered, click here and for information on opportunities for lay people, click here. There is a calendar of coming events and enrichment programs here and a glimpse at their electronic library here. And before you leave, make sure you check out the details on the upcoming "Caring Basket Gala".

The Gospel of the Woman at the Well

2008-02-24T21:00:00.007-05:00

For me, the Gospels are a source of life. I am grateful to be able to converse with them in prayer and in them find God speaking to me.

Among my special Gospels are "The Sermon on the Mount," "the Road to Emmaus," and "the Transfiguration." Interestingly, the woman at the well is not a Gospel that I've connected to in the past. I have respected and appreciated its message, but for some reason, I just never got close to it. I liked (and still like) the image of water it contains, but something has kept me from getting close and personal with this Gospel story.

As I prepared for this Sunday's liturgy, I thought a bit about the distance between me and this Gospel. Actually it was kind of bothering me. Then, not too long into my meditation, I was given a different approach to it: What if I am in the place of the woman? What if I am the woman at the well and Jesus is speaking to me?

Wow, what a different perspective! Definitely the beginning of a closer encounter with this Gospel story and with Jesus through it. I still have a lot to ponder about my new place with this Gospel story, but for now I am thankful that I've been able to get a closer look at it and now feel not so distanced from it.

I'll let you know what other thoughts I discover as I continue to comtemplate it. In the meantime, I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts on it or on other scriptures that have felt a bit distanced for you.

Trust

2008-02-17T17:43:00.002-05:00

This is the message I took from today's homily drawing the connections between the first reading on Abraham and Sarah and the Transfiguration Gospel on Jesus, James, and John:

Trust. Trust asks us to go beyond our reasoning, beyond what seems possible to us, to accept the boundless love of God and God's plan for us. "Listen to Him." Do not be afraid to listen to Him. Quiet my heart, my head, my soul. Be still, be not afraid. Listen to Him. Trust.

Sacred Sculpture: An Artist's Reflections of the Heart

2008-02-10T20:03:00.002-05:00

Kathleen Aucoin's "Mary At Prayer"

This is the second year of our parish's newly revived Sacred Music and Arts Series. It's a really beautiful ministry. I am grateful to be part of the coordinating committee and thankful that this year we were able to include a session on sacred sculpture led by Sister Kathleen "Katie" M. Aucoin, SC.

A Sister of Charity of New York, Sister Katie is truly a sacred sculptor; hers is beautiful gift and ministry. During the course of the hour and a half session, Sister Katie shared the reflections of her artist's heart, her journey with the Master Sculptor, and her relationship with the season of Lent. With samples of her work at the center of each of the roundtables at which we were seated, she faciliated our praying with the art and left us all renewed in our ability to engage God's voice speaking to us through the various media we encounter in our daily living.

Treat yourself to a visit to Sister Katie's website to get just a glimpse of her work. To be honest, the website is a good resource but does not fully capture the depth and breadth of Sister Katie or her work. Should you be looking to have such a program or something similar to it at your parish or community, consider inviting Sister Katie - you will not regret it. She can also be joined by Sister Margaret "Peggy" Beaudette, SC, the artist of DePaul Studios. Whereas Sister Katie specializes in table top size sculpture, Sister Peggy specializes in life-size sculptures. Both are amazingly gifted artists and souls and for me personally it was a grace-filled gift to share the afternoon with them and to reconnect with Sister Katie after many years. The time was prayerful and enjoyable! Definitely a well-spent Sunday afternoon.

"We Rise Again from Ashes..."

2008-02-06T17:03:00.006-05:00

It's hard to believe that it's already the first day of the 2008 Lenten season, but it is. Today was a full day at work so I was really looking forward to closing the day with Mass at my parish.

In the same way that our parish is deliberate about its weekly celebration of Sunday liturgy, it is also intentional about walking the Lenten journey together. Today's liturgy was no different: reverant and engaging and motivating.

In one way, however, today's Liturgy was different because I had the grace-filled opportunity to assist with the distribution of ashes. For many years now, our parish has had lay leaders and ministers assist in this ritual after the ashes are blessed by the priest. Anytime I have the opportunity to have a more participatory role in a liturgy or sacred experience I try to be focused about it and appreciative of the opportunity. I've been a music minister on many occasions over the years, a lector, a Eucharistic Minister, a greeter, a presenter of the offertory gifts, a reader, a planner, to name a few. But this was the very first time I assisted with the distribution of ashes, and it was an soul-opening experience.

Each time I placed my thumb into the small bowl of blessed ashes and embarked upon making the sign of the cross on the forehead of the person before me, I tried to convey a true sense of invitation as I stated the words our parish uses: "Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel."

As I performed this ritual over 100 times, sometimes upon faces I recognized, sometimes upon faces I did not recognize, I was struck many times by the range of facial expressions and postures of the individuals who come forth to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday and I came to realize the profoundly personal and intimate God and person experience that coming forth to receive ashes is.

Much has been said, often critically, sometimes sadly, about the people who only come to Church on Ash Wednesday, who only come for ashes and rarely or never come for Eucharist. In our parish we are deliberate in expressing how glad we are you are here with us today, hoping that the spirit of genuine welcome helps to overcome whatever has kept a person away. However, as I distributed ashes, I came to realize (thankfully) how the act of coming for ashes - whether for the frequent Church-goer or the "estranged" -- isn't about the ashes: coming forward for ashes is about bowing before God to receive God's invitation to "turn away from sin and be faithful for the Gospel," hoping that God's grace will provide the power and strength needed to do that. The signing of the cross with ashes on the forehead means that, at minimum, the person is open to the invitation and the possibility that God's grace will take root and make its home within him/her. For that we should be grateful and, yes, even rejoice in God's goodness.

As the distribution of ashes to the congregation concluded, the choir was still singing so we waited to be able to include them in the marking of ashes ritual as well. Once we had concluded, I returned my small dish of ashes to the stand next to the cauldron in which the blessed palms were burnt and after bowing before the altar returned to my seat. As the Mass continued, I contemplated what I had experienced, marked by the backdrop of the song "We rise again from ashes, from the good we've failed to do...", and thought of the invitation that God has extended to me: "Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel."

As the Liturgy drew to a close, I realized that, for me, the challenge of the invitation is found in the "and": the Lenten journey is about turning away from sin (our human weaknesses) AND being faithful to the Gospel. I pray that I may be receptive to God's grace that awaits me.

Let's continue to pray for one another as we walk this journey with Jesus!

From the Writings of Dorothy Day...

2008-02-01T19:44:00.000-05:00

During the holy hour for First Friday, the Sisters at the Motherhouse shared this reflection from the writings of Dorothy Day. Someone shared the reflection with me via e-mail. Since I found it very inspiring, I thought I'd share it here with you. My apologies for not being able to reference the exact source. If anyone knows, please feel free to mention it in the comments.

It is no use saying that we are born two thousand years too late to give room to Christ. Nor will those who live at the end of the world have been born too late. Christ is always with us, always asking for room in our hearts. But now it is with the voice of our contemporaries that He speaks, with the eyes of store clerks, factory workers, and children that He gazes, with the hands of office workers, slum dwellers, and suburban housewives that He gives. It is with the feet of soldiers and tramps that He walks, and with the heart of anyone in need that He longs for shelter. And giving shelter or food to anyone who asks for it, or needs it, is giving to Christ. We can do now what those who knew Him in the day of His flesh did. I am sure that the shepherds did not adore and then go away to leave Mary and her Child in the stable, but somehow found them room, even though what they had to offer might have been primitive enough. All that the friends of Christ did for Him in His lifetime, we can do. Peter’s mother-in-law hastened to cook a meal for Him, and if anything in the Gospels can be inferred, it surely is that she gave the very best she had, with no thought of extravagance. Matthew made a feast for Him, inviting the whole town, so that the house was in an uproar of enjoyment. We can do it too, exactly as they did. We are not born too late. We do it by seeing Christ and serving Christ in friends and
strangers, in everyone with whom we come in contact.

Christ Himself has proved it for us; and no one has to go further than that. For He said that a glass of water given to a beggar was given for Him. He made heaven hinge on the way we act toward Him in His disguise of commonplace, frail, ordinary humanity.

Did you give Me to eat when I was hungry?
Did you give Me to drink when I was thirsty?
Did you give Me clothes when My own were all rags?
Did you come to see Me when I was sick, or in prison or in trouble?

For a total Christian, the goal of duty is not needed ---always prodding one to perform this or that good deed. It is not a duty to help Christ, it is a privilege. Is it likely that Martha and Mary sat back and considered that they had done all that was expected of them---is it likely that Peter’s mother-in-law grudgingly served the chicken she had meant to keep till Sunday because she thought it was her “duty”? She did it gladly - she would have served ten chickens if she had had them.

If that is the way they gave hospitality to Christ, it is certain that that is the way it should still be given. Not for the sake of humanity. Not because it might be Christ who stays with us, comes to see us, takes up our time. Not because these people remind us of Christ, but because they are Christ, asking us to find room for Him, exactly as He did at the first Christmas.

Standing Up for Life

2008-01-22T22:21:00.000-05:00

As this 35th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade & Doe v. Bolton decisions comes to a close, I wanted to post something to commemorate the day. As I took a walk around the 'net and a few blogs, I discovered a post by Joe Koczera, SJ and decided to share Joe's message with you (hope it's ok, Joe) since it really spoke to me deeply, reminding me of the challenge and call to embrace a consistent ethic of life in promoting the Gospel of Life that Pope John Paul II challenged us to live fully:

On this 35th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Catholics in the United States have been asked by our bishops to pray for an end to abortion. More specifically, the U.S. edition of the General Instruction of the Roman Missal states that this date "shall be observed as a particular day of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion, and of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life. As we pray today for an end to abortion, we who describe ourselves as "pro-life" would do well to reflect on the responsibilities that come with this label. Many people on both sides of the abortion issue tend to frame the goals of the pro-life movement in legal and political terms. However, truly being "pro-life" means much more than seeking to overturn Roe v. Wade. To be pro-life is to desire - and to work for - a society that truly values human life at all stages. To be pro-life is not merely to challenge legal abortion and euthanasia, but to work for a society that truly cares for the most vulnerable persons among us. To be pro-life is to seek something far more radical than changes in law; to be pro-life is to seek to transform contemporary culture. As Pope John Paul II very eloquently expressed, one of the key tasks facing Christians today is replacing a culture of death with a culture of life. The culture of death is reflected not merely in a direct assault on human life, but also in a much more subtle attack on human dignity. In a culture that prioritizes autonomy and the fulfillment of individual desires, the values of interdependence and self-sacrifice remain unacknowledged. In a society that applauds the youthful and the strong, the old and the weak find themselves increasingly unwelcome. With the objectification of the human body and the commodification of sexuality, the value of relationships and the meaning of family become less apparent. The culture of death has many aspects, and any movement toward a culture of life must confront all of them.We who seek a culture of life must be defined not merely but what we're against but by what we're for. On a very basic level, what we're for is a culture in which the full dignity of all persons is respected and in which all are valued. This goal will not be achieved through changes in law, but through the transformation of hearts. As a first step, I suggest that we each look within our own hearts and consider the ways in which we ourselves must be transformed. How does each one of us - self-described "pro-lifers" included - help to perpetuate a culture of death? How can each of us work toward a culture of life? My prayer for today is that all who read these lines (including myself as I write them) will have the courage to confront these questions. AMDG.

Now I am off to watch a bit of the March for Life coverage on EWTN (thanks to the repeat viewing).