Our Call to Community

As we enter into fall, we reflect upon those things that make us whole and of those things we value in life.  Myself, I volunteer at a homeless picnic each year at this time and am a witness of what absence of self truly means and how a simple act of kindness can profoundly change a human life.

This is the month of sharing our bounty and giving back to those less fortunate.  It is important to note, however, that many of us see this as only a physical act – volunteering, supplying food and shelter to the poor and needy.  Many of us forget there is an aspect far more important, the sharing of our spirituality.

Without God, there is nothing.  Without prayer, there is no life.  And without life, no faith.  St. Therese of Lisieux was known for her childlike view of God.  St. Francis of Assisi preached a life of poverty, to anyone and anything who would listen.  St. Luke took to his oath and used his vocation to serving mankind.  They all bred a familiarity to their faith and came to others at times when people often looked for ways to escape their true responsibilities.

We have an obligation to bring together people of all socioeconomic means and to connect them with faith and action in the service of justice.  Our mother Mary, in her quiet grace, gave us the most elegant of gifts to share – the rosary.  It is through her eyes and with her strength we have the tools we need in teaching others about the healing power of prayer.

It is through this practice of meditation and care; we help those seek a way out of darkness.  By spreading the word of His life, we create the light so necessary for survival.

Pray together, live together and give to one another whenever and wherever you can.  Use this as a time for rebirth and renewal.  Do not think of yourself but of the many people who know not the love of Christ.  Come together and unite as Christians and make a difference!  This is our endless call and our plea for community.

May the gentle breath of the Holy Spirit come upon you, may the wind be forever at your backs and may His peace be with you, always.


 

The Rosary

Not on the lute, nor harp of many strings
Shall all men praise the Master of all song.
Our life is brief, one saith, and art is long;
And skilled must be the laureates of kings.
Silent, O lips that utter foolish things!
Rest, awkward fingers striking all notes wrong!
How from your toil shall issue, white and strong,
Music like that God's chosen poet sings?

There is one harp that any hand can play,
And from its strings what harmonies arise!
There is one song that any mouth can say, --
A song that lingers when all singing dies.
When on their beads our Mother's children pray
Immortal music charms the grateful skies.

Joyce Kilmer