Our Lady of Advent symbolizes the call of every Christian to bring forth the Living Word into the world. A faculty member translates this call in these words: "I think that Mary was someone who had "skillful means"--the ability to reach people where they were by whatever means necessary. To get to Jesus is the point, but to do it through Mary means to be met where we are on the way. So my job is to get at my students where they are, however I can on any given day." We could apply this to our dealings with family, co-workers, or whoever comes our way.
As time approaches for the Morning of Recollection for Parents and Alumni, let me again invite you all.
Advent Recollection. Central Catholic High School, Saturday, December 11, 9 am till noon. Chapel. Presenters: Fr. John Delaney, Ms. Betty Desjardins, Br. Rene. Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, quiet prayer, confessions and benediction.
Please RSVP to kpeters@centralcatholic.net by December 8. Thank you.
Bro. Rene
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Advent Mission
Day two of Advent and a beautiful day. The purple vestments and ribbons at church need not be signs of gloom, though they are reminders of the penitential aspect of Advent. Penance that comes from waiting, patience, preparing, spending time in silence and prayer. But the sunshine reminds us that joy can and must underlie the season, for we are anticipating the arrival of the Savior, announced by the angels as "tidings of great joy" (Lk 2:10) as well as our personal encounter with God at the end of our lives, and finally, THE FINAL COMING of Jesus at the end of time. These latter two will be at times as yet unknown, but the former, of course, is December 25th, giving us almost four full weeks of joyful preparation. Joy does not always mean laughter and high energy, but a deep abiding sense of peace and contentment that outer circumstances cannot waiver or sway. Let us take the time we spend in the car, walking up the stairs, cooking supper, whatever, and in silence touch base with the joy within us, and when we speak, spread it to others. An easy Advent Mission.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Advent
The coldest night and morning so far this Autumn; the First Sunday of Advent arrives with St. Paul's admonition: "it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep." (Rm 13: 11). What do we expect from this season? What will be our priorities in a world (and our own personal world) of darkness, disbelief, ignorance, indifference and sin? Will a cold morning keep us in bed, or will we rise to embrace the season of Advent and address each of these challenges with vigor?
The famous WW II pilot, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, tells the story of a life-changing experience when he and his crew were flying a special mission, crashed into the Pacific and were lost as sea for 21 days, almost the same length of time as Advent. He wrote, "In the beginning many of the men were atheists or agnostics, but at the end of the terrible ordeal each, in his own way, had discovered God, prayer and a community of feeling developed which created a liveliness of human fellowship and worship, and a sense of gentle peace." Wouldn't it be worth the effort we've made in prioritizing our spiritual needs, our hopes, and our plan of action for Advent, if we could arrive with the same results as these men? Do we need to be shot down and float in a raft for these four weeks, or can we discipline ourselves out of love of God and a desire to draw closer to him, to arrive at these ends?
Bro. Rene
The famous WW II pilot, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, tells the story of a life-changing experience when he and his crew were flying a special mission, crashed into the Pacific and were lost as sea for 21 days, almost the same length of time as Advent. He wrote, "In the beginning many of the men were atheists or agnostics, but at the end of the terrible ordeal each, in his own way, had discovered God, prayer and a community of feeling developed which created a liveliness of human fellowship and worship, and a sense of gentle peace." Wouldn't it be worth the effort we've made in prioritizing our spiritual needs, our hopes, and our plan of action for Advent, if we could arrive with the same results as these men? Do we need to be shot down and float in a raft for these four weeks, or can we discipline ourselves out of love of God and a desire to draw closer to him, to arrive at these ends?
Bro. Rene
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Vigi lance
On the eve of the first Sunday of Advent, let us take a moment to reflect on vigilance, a state of watchfulness, waiting, patience, and endurance. Jesus warns us, "Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap." (Lk 21: 34). "That day" is usually understood as the final day, the day of the coming of the Lord, but it can also be our final day. "You know not the day nor the hour." (Matt 24:36). Yes, we must be ready, and these four weeks of Advent call us to be alert and watchful of our behavior, our complacency, perhaps the drifting and slow shifting of values, the loosening up of self-discipline, the sliding into laxity in our prayer and liturgical lives, a neglect of charity in speech and action, a "drunkenness" in self-absortion and self-centeredness. No, we wouldn't want Jesus to show up suddenly and call us to account when we are off the track. Rather, let us keep vigil with Mary in her last month of pregnancy, so willing to step out of her comfort zone, so ready to accept the plan of God for her and her Son. Let us keep watch with Joseph, whose fidelity to his wife and the will of God called him to stretch beyond what he thought were his reasonable limits, into an unknown which demanded more strength and faith than he thought he possessed. Both Mary and Joseph were attentive to each other and to the overtures of God and in so doing enabled God himself to come into this world for the procurement of our salvation. May our hearts be vigilant and ready to respond to the calls we receive to be instruments of redemption in the lives of others. We may not be asked to trek on foot to register for the census in Jerusalem, but we are asked to take up the little, ordinary tasks of daily life as if we were doing them for the last time. Let us do so with attentiveness and vigilance.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Friday, November 26, 2010
Stand Erect and Raise Your Heads
Over-stuffed with Thanksgiving turkey, too many deserts, disappointed or elated on the outcomes of football games, weary or wide-awake from early bargain shopping, and greeted by rain and gray skies, we need some reassurance from outside our little worlds. And it comes. The Alleluia verse before today's Gospel urges us to "Stand erect and raise [our] heads because [our] redemption is at hand." As we ease into Advent and for four weeks receive a hefty dose of this kind of assurance that indeed "God lives among his people." (cf. Rev 21: 3b), may we be fortified to stand with assurance and move confidently ahead. God dwells in our altar tabernacles and in the tabernacles of our hearts. We are God's holy temple, come rain, come shine, come weal or come woe. So too are our family members, our neighbors and our friends. Walking temples we are, most of the time unconcious of the privilege God has given us, to be his dwelling place. How sacred, how richly endowed so freely and abundantly! We have every reason to stand erect and hold our heads high with pride and dignity, for not only is our redemption at hand (initiated by the birth of Jesus and completed by his death and resurrection) but if we are living God's ways, we are experiencing a taste of the redemption that fully awaits us when through death we enter into eternal life. Let our fatigue and weariness give way to energy powered by God's love and God's presence.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving 2010
Life is a mixture. Today's Eagle-Tribune reflects the convergence of disparate elements, for all of which, yes, ALL, we pause to give thanks. It is ironic, it is paradoxical, that President Abraham Lincoln declared this a national holiday in the midst of our bitter Civil War. He saw beyond the bloody conflict to the many blessings we as a people had received and acknowleged the GIVER by a gesture that has endured the generations until now. Our troops today are scattered around the globe, yet pause to pray and greet families through the gift of technology.
How inspiring to see on the front page the story of Jacob Morales, proudly one of our Central Catholic students, and read of how, through continued pain and struggle, he has turned tragedy into positive service to others. The editorial reads like a meditation and poses several areas for which we can and should give thanks. Highlighted is the reality that we have the FREEDOM to give thanks to God; that families have the means to gather from all parts of the country and globe around the HOME table, where stories are told as the traditional turkey "and all the trimmin's" disappear. We have memories to share, family members to enjoy, deceased to remember in gratitude. Yes, we have football and shopping...newpapers are stuffed with advertisements; shoppers already queue up outside New Hampshire stores. We have the freedom to do all of this; we have the freedom to worship, thank, and offer God ourselves as gifts to him, the Giver of all these good gifts. Does it not become apparent that God knows what's best for us? Thank you God, through Christ Jesus, Our Lord.
Bro. Rene
How inspiring to see on the front page the story of Jacob Morales, proudly one of our Central Catholic students, and read of how, through continued pain and struggle, he has turned tragedy into positive service to others. The editorial reads like a meditation and poses several areas for which we can and should give thanks. Highlighted is the reality that we have the FREEDOM to give thanks to God; that families have the means to gather from all parts of the country and globe around the HOME table, where stories are told as the traditional turkey "and all the trimmin's" disappear. We have memories to share, family members to enjoy, deceased to remember in gratitude. Yes, we have football and shopping...newpapers are stuffed with advertisements; shoppers already queue up outside New Hampshire stores. We have the freedom to do all of this; we have the freedom to worship, thank, and offer God ourselves as gifts to him, the Giver of all these good gifts. Does it not become apparent that God knows what's best for us? Thank you God, through Christ Jesus, Our Lord.
Bro. Rene
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Addiction
More than we would like to acknowledge, we are surrounded by people suffering from addiction, perhaps even we ourselves have one of its many forms that are not as blatant, at first, as alcoholism or drug abuse. Gambling is a powerful addiction, that at first seems harmless fun. "Oh yes, we go to Foxwoods, la-dee-dah. The visits become more frequent, the stakes higher, and on it goes to destruction of personal and family life, unless it is stopped.
Soldiers in Afghanistan, hooked on pornography, so readily available on the internet, so readily available that even here on the job, it's becoming a major problem. No one is immune to the temptation that a click of the mouse can bring up a gallery of sordid images. It can be kept secret, but as it grows in intensity, it divides a person who realizes he or she is living a double life, and eventually loses control of "the good life" as the "bad" takes over.
And, of course, alcohol. This morning I read an e-mail from the mother of one of my Godsons, who is in treatment for alcoholism...only 23, two tours in Iraq, smart, strong, good looking like his father, but hooked on alcohol like his father, who never broke his addiction, because he never really admitted he had a problem.
It takes courage and the support of patient, understanding, prayerful people to help the addict find the path to sobriety. Twelve Step Programs work, if followed with sincerity, honesty and love. Above all, a healthy relationship with a "higher power", ultimately GOD, is the real answer to becoming sober and living a full and productive life.
We all know addicts at various levels of addiction. Reaching out, confronting, intervening, praying for them can save their lives. It takes guts, conviction and commitment. Let us pray for wisdom and courage to become an instrument of healing.
Bro. Rene
Soldiers in Afghanistan, hooked on pornography, so readily available on the internet, so readily available that even here on the job, it's becoming a major problem. No one is immune to the temptation that a click of the mouse can bring up a gallery of sordid images. It can be kept secret, but as it grows in intensity, it divides a person who realizes he or she is living a double life, and eventually loses control of "the good life" as the "bad" takes over.
And, of course, alcohol. This morning I read an e-mail from the mother of one of my Godsons, who is in treatment for alcoholism...only 23, two tours in Iraq, smart, strong, good looking like his father, but hooked on alcohol like his father, who never broke his addiction, because he never really admitted he had a problem.
It takes courage and the support of patient, understanding, prayerful people to help the addict find the path to sobriety. Twelve Step Programs work, if followed with sincerity, honesty and love. Above all, a healthy relationship with a "higher power", ultimately GOD, is the real answer to becoming sober and living a full and productive life.
We all know addicts at various levels of addiction. Reaching out, confronting, intervening, praying for them can save their lives. It takes guts, conviction and commitment. Let us pray for wisdom and courage to become an instrument of healing.
Bro. Rene
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Advent Reconciliation
Central Catholic students are given the opportunity today to attend penance services and receive the sacrament of reconciliation. A wonderful opporotunity for them to prepare for Advent, which begins on Sunday, and a reminder to us that as a season of preparation, there is a motif of penance, not quite as demanding as during Lent, in order to purifiy our hearts for the coming of the Savior. With "Black Friday" beginning at midnight people will rush to stores while still in process of digesting the Thanksgiving turkey, in order to "beat the crowds and get a headstart on Christmas shopping at bargain prices." The meaning of Advent is lost in the frenzy to shop, decorate, send cards, and attend parties in the weeks ahead. Prayer, confession, reflection, sacrificing, and service to others fight for survival, but yes, with a concerted effort, can find their rightful place in the next four weeks. The example of our students at our penance services, confession, and Thanksgiving prayers during their religion periods can motivate us to find the time for these important acts of faith and practices of our religion and put us on the right track for the weeks of Advent. Our faculty as well, on Mondays and Tuesdays during Advent, will be meeting in the chapel for reflection and prayer over the Advent readings of the week. It is a special time, a special season, a prelude to a very special event in human history: the coming of God as one of us. How greatly does he love us to have made such a "leap". How great the call to leap as high as we can in response.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Monday, November 22, 2010
St. Cecilia
For as little as we know about Saint Cecilia, as patroness of musicians and poets. she is a very popular saint. We assume that she was a musician herself, but there is no verification of that. Her association with music comes from a legend that as the muscians played at her wedding, "she sang in her heart to the Lord." She evidently was martyred in Sicily between the years 176-180, when Marcus Aurelius was emperor.
In commemorating St. Cecilia, we recognize the place music, especially Church music, has (or should have) in our lives. In some Catholic churches, everyone sings and the effect is the positive lifting up of soul and body in prayer. Many Catholic congregations, however, allow the choir to entertain them while they sit back and listen, in the hopes that the choir will not sing all the verses. Usually a hymn is cut short and the real impact of the poetry is lost. Advent and Christmas will bring out old familiar favorites. Perhaps we might be inspired by the gumption of St. Cecilia, whose martyrdom was, as the stories go, very gruesome and long-drawn-out, to make an effort to share our voices with the choir and thus "pray twice", as St. Augustine put it.
On another note, a reminder that today is the 47th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, a date forever etched in the hearts of those of us who were alive at the time. May he rest in peace.
Bro. Rene
In commemorating St. Cecilia, we recognize the place music, especially Church music, has (or should have) in our lives. In some Catholic churches, everyone sings and the effect is the positive lifting up of soul and body in prayer. Many Catholic congregations, however, allow the choir to entertain them while they sit back and listen, in the hopes that the choir will not sing all the verses. Usually a hymn is cut short and the real impact of the poetry is lost. Advent and Christmas will bring out old familiar favorites. Perhaps we might be inspired by the gumption of St. Cecilia, whose martyrdom was, as the stories go, very gruesome and long-drawn-out, to make an effort to share our voices with the choir and thus "pray twice", as St. Augustine put it.
On another note, a reminder that today is the 47th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, a date forever etched in the hearts of those of us who were alive at the time. May he rest in peace.
Bro. Rene
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Christ The King
In 1925, Pope Pius XI established the Feast of Christ the King on the last Sunday of the liturgical year as a reminder that unless total allegiance be given to Jesus Christ, there would never be peace. The "War to end all Wars" in which millions died, was proof that weaponry and war would not bring about a lasting peace. Worse, a growing skepticism, secularism and materialism, even then, demanded a re-focusing of attention on Jesus. Sad to say, the world in general is still, if not alarmingly, "out of focus", and the need to turn to Jesus is stronger than ever.
A king is a leader, one who inspires and who by his strong faith in God and in those whom he serves, wins their loyalty and willingness to follow whatever he asks. "The King of the Jews" (Lk 23: 36) wore a crown of thorns on the cross, a crown willingly accepted to expiate our sins. Now, risen and seated at the right hand of the Father, his crown is one of victory, a sign to us that his kind of leadership, based on love, and sacrifice, even of his own life, is the only path worth following.
As we prepare for Advent, let us look and see where our path is taking us. Are we straying, in little things? In big things? Are we providing loving, self-sacrificing leadership in our families, our work place, in our circle of friends? Is Jesus the center of our family life? Are family prayer, grace before meals, weekly Mass attendance, regular confession part given their proper place? Are we planning to observe Advent with an Advent wreath, special prayer, reading, reflection on the place of Emmanuel, God-With-Us during the four weeks? If today we hail Christ as our King, let our actions back up our words.
Bro. Rene
A king is a leader, one who inspires and who by his strong faith in God and in those whom he serves, wins their loyalty and willingness to follow whatever he asks. "The King of the Jews" (Lk 23: 36) wore a crown of thorns on the cross, a crown willingly accepted to expiate our sins. Now, risen and seated at the right hand of the Father, his crown is one of victory, a sign to us that his kind of leadership, based on love, and sacrifice, even of his own life, is the only path worth following.
As we prepare for Advent, let us look and see where our path is taking us. Are we straying, in little things? In big things? Are we providing loving, self-sacrificing leadership in our families, our work place, in our circle of friends? Is Jesus the center of our family life? Are family prayer, grace before meals, weekly Mass attendance, regular confession part given their proper place? Are we planning to observe Advent with an Advent wreath, special prayer, reading, reflection on the place of Emmanuel, God-With-Us during the four weeks? If today we hail Christ as our King, let our actions back up our words.
Bro. Rene
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Saving Life
Mary McCarthy, Executive Director of the Pregnancy Care Center, is a convincing, faithfilled, fully-focused and determined figure in the quest to save lives, to give life a chance. Her agency, headquartered in Haverhill, with branches in several locations, including Lawrence, for twenty-five years has been counseling couples and individuals to choose life over abortion. Thousands of precious lives have come into this world because of the caring ministry of this center. That support for it is growing is one of the signs of hope that fit right into the approaching season of Advent. Our Good Mother, Mary, chose life, and it was a choice that has brought the Author of Life into our world and thus the availability of new life, eternal life, to the fallen human race. Mary McCarthy is well-named and walks in the footsteps of the great Mary who is "Wider than the Universe."
Also following in the footsteps of our Good Mother, is a group of seven Marist College students who have come to Lawrence for the weekend to help Lazarus House prepare food baskets for its larger-than-ever Thanksgiving food distribution over the next several days. Yes, three days have been allocated this year, because the demand is so high. It is a paradox that in this "land of plenty" so many have so little. It is also a paradox that the young, often labelled "self-centered and spoiled" should sacrifice a weekend before Thanksgiving, and before the imminent end of the term, to help provide for those who have less. Yet it is consonant with our Marist Mission, "to serve the least favored."
May these two examples of service to LIFE, be signs of hope for us, as well as inspirations to us to work and pray with equal generosity for the saving of this precious gift.
Bro. Rene
Also following in the footsteps of our Good Mother, is a group of seven Marist College students who have come to Lawrence for the weekend to help Lazarus House prepare food baskets for its larger-than-ever Thanksgiving food distribution over the next several days. Yes, three days have been allocated this year, because the demand is so high. It is a paradox that in this "land of plenty" so many have so little. It is also a paradox that the young, often labelled "self-centered and spoiled" should sacrifice a weekend before Thanksgiving, and before the imminent end of the term, to help provide for those who have less. Yet it is consonant with our Marist Mission, "to serve the least favored."
May these two examples of service to LIFE, be signs of hope for us, as well as inspirations to us to work and pray with equal generosity for the saving of this precious gift.
Bro. Rene
Friday, November 19, 2010
Advent Recollection
In response the the requests of several Alumni, Central Catholic High School will conduct an Advent Morning of Recollection on Saturday, December 11th from nine till noon in the Chapel and Baroni Multi-purpose Hall. With all the commotion taking place now and ever building till Christmas, I'm sending out this invitation now, so that you might plan to include this time of reflection and prayer as an essential part of Advent and preparation for the Solemnity of the Birth of Christ. The ever-increasing secularizing of this event, reducing it to colored lights, and gifts, is dimming the real meaning of Christmas as one of Light, Hope, Peace, Joy, Reconcilation and Love, resulting from the Incarnation of Gift of Gifts, Jesus, the Son of God, our Savior,. The incursion warrants time set apart to reflect on the meaning of God's enfleshed presence among us, as well as our priorites during the nearly obliterated season of Advent. Fr. John Delaney and I will offer some ideas on the meaning of Advent and Mary's role in our redemption, and there will be time for quiet prayer, the sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and Benediction. We thought that a morning would be just enough, and would respect the need for other preparations for Christmas.
Please respond to kpeters@centralcatholic.net if you are planning to join us. Thank you.
Bro. Rene
Please respond to kpeters@centralcatholic.net if you are planning to join us. Thank you.
Bro. Rene
Thursday, November 18, 2010
God's Ways
With the sun shining brightly in contrast to yesterday's dark and rainy morning, we find our spirits lifted and nourished, as plants respond to the rays of the sun. House plants turn and lean toward the sun to receive the maximum power and energy to thrive. Such a reminder that "God's ways are faithfulness and love," (Ps 25: 8 ) and in him we live, move and have our being, are easy to absorb on such a day. We can share the exuberance of Solomon at the dedication of the new Temple he built for the Lord, "Lord, God of Israel there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below; you keep your covenant of kindness with your servants who are faithful to you with their whole heart." (1 Kgs 8:23). God's love and faithfulness far surpass the greatest of human love and is the inspiration and motivation for us to remain faithful and loving with our whole heart even when the sun is not shining. As busy as St. Francis or St. Teresa of Avila were, they spent hours in prayer by opening their hearts to the moment and lifting them up to this loving, faithful God. "My eyes are always on the Lord:" (Ps 25, 15). May our eyes lead our hearts to greater love of God and neighbor and "May the Lord of peace himself give us peace at all times and in every way. Amen." (cf. 2 Thes.3: 16). This are the Ways of the Lord.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Thanks-Giving
Bells are ringing at the doors of supermarkets and department stores. Headlines highlight the increased number of people needing help at Thanksgiving. Central Catholic's lobby is filling with bags of food for Lazarus House. The Christmas Project is underway. "Tis the season to be giving. Nothing new; there is not one of us who does not remember pre-Thanksgiving and pre-Christmas as a time when the needs of others came to the fore and were addressed. It seems like the "Thanksgiving Food Drive" is an established part of Americana as is apple pie.
Such generosity to the poor was part of the life of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, who gave from the royal coffers and kitchen to the poor of her era, the early 13th century. So generous was she that her in-laws objected, ridiculed her, and, when her husband died, evicted her from the castle. Such treatment never daunted her generous spirit. She merely followed Jesus who challenges us "to sell what you have and give to the poor," (Mt 19:21), and warns us, "Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one's life does not consist of possessions." (Lk 12: 15). As pressure mounts for giving to help make a happy Thanksgiving for the poor, or when that Salvation Army bell tinkles, may we not be callous, thinking, " them again" and head for the other door, but moved by the words of Jesus, the example of St. Elizabeth and the real needs of others, to give generously to help them, and give thanks that we are able to do so.
Bro. Rene
Such generosity to the poor was part of the life of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, who gave from the royal coffers and kitchen to the poor of her era, the early 13th century. So generous was she that her in-laws objected, ridiculed her, and, when her husband died, evicted her from the castle. Such treatment never daunted her generous spirit. She merely followed Jesus who challenges us "to sell what you have and give to the poor," (Mt 19:21), and warns us, "Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one's life does not consist of possessions." (Lk 12: 15). As pressure mounts for giving to help make a happy Thanksgiving for the poor, or when that Salvation Army bell tinkles, may we not be callous, thinking, " them again" and head for the other door, but moved by the words of Jesus, the example of St. Elizabeth and the real needs of others, to give generously to help them, and give thanks that we are able to do so.
Bro. Rene
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Frank MacDonald. '53
In Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, we watch the unravelling of a life that was just an empty shell, no substance, all sham and bravado. In reflecting on the death of an alumnus, Frank MacDonald "53, we find just the opposite: a life full of meaning, love and happiness. We might say he was an uansuming, normal young man while a student at Central, playing football, participating in the Poster Club, and having a penchant for singing. As he matured further, married and became a succssful business man, his true stature became apparent as his loyalty and fidelity to his Alma Mater grew to the point of interminable involvement in Central Catholic, serving as a member of its Board of Directors and its Athletic Advisory Committee. He served on this committee until recently when his illness forced him to a never-formal "retirement", for his heart was always with it.
Two years ago he was the honoree at our Annual Golf Tournament, where the song of his praises was sung with great gusto, and still lingers in our hearts. It is with sadness at the loss of this great man, a model alumnus, as well as with gratitude and joy that we bid him farewell and commend him to that ever-growing alumni association in eternity. May he rest in peace.
Bro. Rene
Two years ago he was the honoree at our Annual Golf Tournament, where the song of his praises was sung with great gusto, and still lingers in our hearts. It is with sadness at the loss of this great man, a model alumnus, as well as with gratitude and joy that we bid him farewell and commend him to that ever-growing alumni association in eternity. May he rest in peace.
Bro. Rene
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Society of Mary
Today marks several events of note in our Marist history. While in the seminary in 1815-1816, several young men, led at the time by Jean-Claude Courveille, bantered about his idea, based on an alleged vision, about forming a new religious order as another arm of reform initiated by the Jesuits several centuries earlier. It was to be called The Society of Mary and was to have four branches: priests (today's Marist Fathers), brothers, (today's Marist Brothers), sisters (The Marist Sisters), and a Third Order for lay people, (today known as The Third Order of Mary). Fr. Marcellin Champagat was the first to move on the idea, as we know, founding the Marist Brothers in 1817, not even a year after his ordination. Fr. Jean-Claude Colin, another one of these seminarians, forged ahead with the founding of the Marist Fathers and along with Jeanne-Marie Chavoin, founded the Marist Sisters, a teaching order. A second group of Marist Sisters, known as the Marist Missionary Sisters was founded much later by a group of laywomen, headed by Franciose Perroton, who left for Oceania on this day in 1845 to help the Marist Fathers (and Brothers) with missionary work in the South Pacific. After several years as lay missionaries, these women were asked to consider becoming a religous order, one which was finally approved in 1932. While these congregations share the common name, Marist, and a common Marial spirituality, they are four distinct and independent congregations, a fact often unknown.
This is also the anniversary of the death of Fr. Colin who died in 1873. On this date in 1880, the Marist Brothers opened an establishment in Rome, where our General Headquarters are located. Fittingly, Marists in the United States are praying for a group of brothers who have answered the call made by our then Superior General, Bro. Sean Sammon, to leave home and bring the Gospel "to the nations" (Ad Gentes). These men are following in the footsteps of the early missionaries and are concentrating on countries in Asia, where Marists have never ventured, or where, such as in China, our earlier work was suppressed by the Communist Government, but where there is now some leeway and tolerance for the presence of religious. Already, in Indonesia, for example, there are young men in formation to become Marist Brothers. Let us pray in thanksgiving for these and the earlier founders who dared to take creative initiatives "to make Jesus known and loved."
Bro. Rene
This is also the anniversary of the death of Fr. Colin who died in 1873. On this date in 1880, the Marist Brothers opened an establishment in Rome, where our General Headquarters are located. Fittingly, Marists in the United States are praying for a group of brothers who have answered the call made by our then Superior General, Bro. Sean Sammon, to leave home and bring the Gospel "to the nations" (Ad Gentes). These men are following in the footsteps of the early missionaries and are concentrating on countries in Asia, where Marists have never ventured, or where, such as in China, our earlier work was suppressed by the Communist Government, but where there is now some leeway and tolerance for the presence of religious. Already, in Indonesia, for example, there are young men in formation to become Marist Brothers. Let us pray in thanksgiving for these and the earlier founders who dared to take creative initiatives "to make Jesus known and loved."
Bro. Rene
Sunday, November 14, 2010
God's Plans For Us
As the Liturgical Year winds down and a new one awaits us in two weeks, (the First Sunday of Advent is November 28th), we begin to ponder the plan of God which ends in a transformation of the world as we know it into a world of everlasting union with God, where joy, peace and love prevail. Our mission as Marists calls us to be confident in this blueprint, and to take to heart, the words of Jeremiah: "The Lord says: my plans for you are peace and not disaster; when you call to me, I will listen to you, and I will bring you back to the place from which I exiled you." (Jer 29: 11, 12-14). "When you call to me": in prayer from the depths of our hearts, in persistent prayer, even when we don't feel closeness to God, or anything, for that matter. Our desire to pray, is the beginning of prayer, and sometimes all that we can offer as prayer. Our presence to God, the movment of our will towads God, these will lead us to an understanding that all that happens from day to day is an invitation to faith, trust and hope. God wants our good. When Jesus says, "Come to me", it is a invitation to be replenished, strengthened, comforted, and loved unconditionally. We have to "call", God says, and then he will listen. It's a simple plan; it leads to our personal transformation and union with him. Call to him and while he is still near, call to him and you will be heard. Call now, call many times during the course of this Sunday. Heed his plea, "Come to me."
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Saturday, November 13, 2010
The Right Thing To Do
One of the groups at the Marist Youth Encounter Christ retreat in Esopus two weeks ago came up with a refrain in their skit that rings in my head to this day: "Because it's the right thing to do." It became the benchmark for the group for the rest of the Encounter as everything they did was hailed as "the right thing to do." It made for a lot of fun, but oh, how true it is, how needed for our growth in the spiritual life.
Obedience. Perhaps the hardest virtue to put into practice. It demands letting go of our own will, and is especially trying when we think OUR way is best and our boss, our wife, our husband, think otherwise. It becomes even more complicated when we get into morals. Telling the truth might reveal our weakness or bring on consequences for our actions that we want to avoid. In the end, it is "the right thing to do" and ultimately verfies the old adage, "honesty is the best policy."
Getting up for Mass each Sunday, corraling the family, especially the young who have a hard time sitting still in Church, or even harder, teenagers in their rebellious stage, would be so easy to dismiss as "impossible." To accept and go with the challenge is "the right thing to do" in view of the third commandment and the prizes of nurturing our faith by joining the community of faith, hearing the Word of God and intimate union with Jesus at communion. As we approach Advent, a time of preparation and waiting for the coming of Jesus at Christmas and at the end of time, we might begin to examen our lives, our commitments, and start looking at what we can "clean up", what we can do to avoid the pre-Christmas frenzy foisted upon us by our "material world", and see how obedient we are to doing "the right thing."
Bro. Rene
Obedience. Perhaps the hardest virtue to put into practice. It demands letting go of our own will, and is especially trying when we think OUR way is best and our boss, our wife, our husband, think otherwise. It becomes even more complicated when we get into morals. Telling the truth might reveal our weakness or bring on consequences for our actions that we want to avoid. In the end, it is "the right thing to do" and ultimately verfies the old adage, "honesty is the best policy."
Getting up for Mass each Sunday, corraling the family, especially the young who have a hard time sitting still in Church, or even harder, teenagers in their rebellious stage, would be so easy to dismiss as "impossible." To accept and go with the challenge is "the right thing to do" in view of the third commandment and the prizes of nurturing our faith by joining the community of faith, hearing the Word of God and intimate union with Jesus at communion. As we approach Advent, a time of preparation and waiting for the coming of Jesus at Christmas and at the end of time, we might begin to examen our lives, our commitments, and start looking at what we can "clean up", what we can do to avoid the pre-Christmas frenzy foisted upon us by our "material world", and see how obedient we are to doing "the right thing."
Bro. Rene
Friday, November 12, 2010
A Brother's Life
Anyone who has been taught by "the brothers", with few exceptions, speaks highly of the impact this band of men has had on him or her, yet, the vocation of the brotherhood remains one of the hidden gems of the church. References are frequently made to priests and sisters, but rarely to the brothers. We've always been dwarfed by the sheer numbers of priests and sisters, yet our impact is unquestionably immearsureable. For example, at Central Catholic Class reunions around lunch, or wherever, the topic of "the brothers" always seems to dominate the conversation. "Remember when" stories are told and re-told at each gathering, and sentiments of long overdue gratitude are expressed. We trust that "the brothers" in heaven, can hear their former students now sing their praises for the education and the life-direction they gave their reluctant students.
In this context I announce the death of Brother Kenneth Marino F.M.S. who entered into eternal life suddenly Wednesday night. He was from Lawrence and taught here in the late fifties and finished his active days as librarian. He was a talented artist and musician, but suffered in the classroom. Through a life of ups and downs, he remained faithful to his vows and rightly deserves our gratitude and praise for the witness to the Gospel he leaves as his legacy. May he finally rest in peace.
Bro. Rene
In this context I announce the death of Brother Kenneth Marino F.M.S. who entered into eternal life suddenly Wednesday night. He was from Lawrence and taught here in the late fifties and finished his active days as librarian. He was a talented artist and musician, but suffered in the classroom. Through a life of ups and downs, he remained faithful to his vows and rightly deserves our gratitude and praise for the witness to the Gospel he leaves as his legacy. May he finally rest in peace.
Bro. Rene
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Honoring Our Veterans
Our nation takes time today to honor the men and women of have served our country in the military: those valiant, generous, brave, and long-suffering citizens, some of whom have given their lives to preserve the values and freedom we treasure. The tales told by the living survivors of WW II are shockingly brutal. It's no wonder these veterans don't like to talk about them: beatings as prisoners of war, excruciating pain from wounds, heat or cold. Hours, days, floating in the ocean after their torpedoed ship went down. We cannot but listen in awe at the extent of their sacrificial service. Flags will fly, speeches will be given, music played, wreaths placed, stories told, memories stirred, hearts inspired, prayers offered. Yes, prayers offered, perhaps the most important piece of this special day. We pray in thanksgiving for those who survived and those who didn't; we pray for protection for those who are serving now; we pray for peace and the negotiations in process to achieve that end. We pray for the wounded, maimed, and those seeking work. It is sad to read of the plight of the returned service men and women who cannot find work. Yes, it's the same plight of civilians as well, but it seems an added hardship on those who gave up jobs and security to serve our country. It would seem that a priority in hiring them would be readily available. We might know people or have some influence in our communities to look into this and help these veterans find work. At least we can take steps to make this need known: another solid and lasting way to honor our veterans.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Monday, November 8, 2010
Encounter
As you digest today's slice of Daily Bread, please pray for the Central students and faculty members who will be on an Encounter in Whittinsville, MA till Wednesday. Here is a testimony from a young man who made an Encounter in Esopus last week. Pray that such amazing gifts might be given to our students. I will not be able to post anything on Wednesday, so you might want to re-read this one and keep us all in prayer. Thank you.
" I will certainly pray for you and those from Central Catholic who will be on the Encounter. I can honestly say that it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I met so many great people, many of whom I am still keeping in touch with. Some are planning to come to New Jersey next month and we will go to the mall or even do something crazy, like snow tubing! It was such a humbling experience while, at the same time, such a relaxing and energy-infusing one.
I told people from the Encounter and my friends and girlfriend back home that I can't remember the last time I cried. I cried for 5 different reasons on the Encounter. I cried because of laughter (there was a lot of that). I cried because I was moved. I cried because I was happy. I cried because I was thankful. I even cried because of pain. (funny story involving an accidental swing of the ping pong paddle to my forehead... but that's another story)
It was no surprise to me how much love was at the Encounter. It seems like love and Esopus always go hand in hand. I have met so many great people over the years, from you and Br. Steve to countless friends from the special needs camps, retreats I've led, and now the Encounter. I wear the necklace from the Encounter all the time, and I have to say that it is one of my most cherished possessions. It represents not only the memories from the Encounter, but also all those that have been created over the years through various experiences. "
Bro. Rene
" I will certainly pray for you and those from Central Catholic who will be on the Encounter. I can honestly say that it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I met so many great people, many of whom I am still keeping in touch with. Some are planning to come to New Jersey next month and we will go to the mall or even do something crazy, like snow tubing! It was such a humbling experience while, at the same time, such a relaxing and energy-infusing one.
I told people from the Encounter and my friends and girlfriend back home that I can't remember the last time I cried. I cried for 5 different reasons on the Encounter. I cried because of laughter (there was a lot of that). I cried because I was moved. I cried because I was happy. I cried because I was thankful. I even cried because of pain. (funny story involving an accidental swing of the ping pong paddle to my forehead... but that's another story)
It was no surprise to me how much love was at the Encounter. It seems like love and Esopus always go hand in hand. I have met so many great people over the years, from you and Br. Steve to countless friends from the special needs camps, retreats I've led, and now the Encounter. I wear the necklace from the Encounter all the time, and I have to say that it is one of my most cherished possessions. It represents not only the memories from the Encounter, but also all those that have been created over the years through various experiences. "
Bro. Rene
Ascending God's Mountain
The Psalmist asks, "Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord?/or who may stand in his holy place?"(Ps 24: 3), What would be my answer? Would I see myself worthy? He gives the straightforward answer: "Only those whose hands and hearts are pure,/ who do not worship idols/ and never tell lies" (Ps 24: 4). Our actions, the works of our hands and feet, our inner thoughts, our attitudes, our desires, our loves, all must be pure and transparent. No idols. What are my idols? Self? Power, money, control? Honesty, no lies...a hard lesson in these days when lying and hypocrisy are so rampant. Anyone who has climbed a mountain knows the challenges, the fatigue, the times when it seems we'll never reach the summit. But oh, the exhilaration of reaching the top: the view, the sense of accomplishment, the desire to dance with joy! Even more so, ascending this path laid out by the Psalmist which leads to the summit of God. Not to be achieved in one day, but the climb of our lifetime. May we re-focus on it today and not stray from the path.
Bro. Rene
Bro. Rene
Sunday, November 7, 2010
People of Encouragement
Veteran's Day celebrations are occuring already to honor those who have served our country with valor and dedication. To shake these still strong hands, to hear of wounds, beatings in prison camps, to watch these valiant men who served in WW II or Korea, walking with canes and walkers, to see the gleam of pride in their eyes as they receive the gratitude of us who still benefit from their sacrifices, and to hear that the young men and women enlisting in our military have that same love of country and willingness to lay down their lives for us, cannot but give us inspiration, encouragement, even tears of joy and gratitude, and a renewed sense of patriotism.
St. Paul in writing to the Corinthians brings us to a deeper understanding of encouragement: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our every affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we oursevles are encouraged by God. For as Christ's sufferings overflow to us through Christ, so does our encouragment also overflow to others." (2 Cor. 1: 3-5). We see the love of God in others, and in the case of the veterans, we see the "affliction", the suffering, and the total gift of self, that Jesus underwent, that in turn becomes a source of encouragment to us. As we honor these heroes this week, let us take stock of their on-going gift to us, and ourselves become people of encouragement. May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting encouragement and good hope through his grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word. " (2 Thes 2: 16-17).
Bro Rene
St. Paul in writing to the Corinthians brings us to a deeper understanding of encouragement: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our every affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we oursevles are encouraged by God. For as Christ's sufferings overflow to us through Christ, so does our encouragment also overflow to others." (2 Cor. 1: 3-5). We see the love of God in others, and in the case of the veterans, we see the "affliction", the suffering, and the total gift of self, that Jesus underwent, that in turn becomes a source of encouragment to us. As we honor these heroes this week, let us take stock of their on-going gift to us, and ourselves become people of encouragement. May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting encouragement and good hope through his grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word. " (2 Thes 2: 16-17).
Bro Rene
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Time
Time. We never seem to have enough of it. Tonight, as we "fall back", the elation of gaining an hour while we sleep gives us somewhat of a boost, an encouraging hope of "catching up", at least on sleep. At any rate, we become conscious of the gift of time as we turn back our clocks, or change batteries in smoke alarms, noting that six months or so, have passed since the last time- change in the spring.
God, the Timeless, has willingly entered time, blessed it and made it part of the road to salvation. He has sanctified the present moment and offered it to us as a means of reaching the eternal moment, the great NOW, of which there is no end. In Psalm 90 we read, "For you, a thousand years are like yesterday!/They are like a few hours." Or in another translation, "a thousand ages in thy sight are like an evening gone. Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom." (Ps 90: 4,12). As we gain that "extra hour", let us look at how we use the time God has given us, see if we are using it wisely and really growing in wisdom, or see if we will have to account for the hours we have squandered on the trivial or the insignificant. We trust that there will be time to put our use of it in good order. Sanctifying, asking God to bless each new moment as we shift from one task to another, or deal with unexpected requests and interruptions, makes every moment a grace-filled one. May each one of us "have a good time" today.
Bro. Rene
God, the Timeless, has willingly entered time, blessed it and made it part of the road to salvation. He has sanctified the present moment and offered it to us as a means of reaching the eternal moment, the great NOW, of which there is no end. In Psalm 90 we read, "For you, a thousand years are like yesterday!/They are like a few hours." Or in another translation, "a thousand ages in thy sight are like an evening gone. Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom." (Ps 90: 4,12). As we gain that "extra hour", let us look at how we use the time God has given us, see if we are using it wisely and really growing in wisdom, or see if we will have to account for the hours we have squandered on the trivial or the insignificant. We trust that there will be time to put our use of it in good order. Sanctifying, asking God to bless each new moment as we shift from one task to another, or deal with unexpected requests and interruptions, makes every moment a grace-filled one. May each one of us "have a good time" today.
Bro. Rene
Friday, November 5, 2010
Compassionate Presence
First Fridays are always associated with the Sacred Heart, whose loving compassion is symbolized by the flame burning from his exposed heart. The Entrance Antiphon for the Mass of the Sacred Heart recalls that "The thoughts of his heart last through every generation, that he will rescue them from death and feed them in time of famine" Ps 32: 11, 19). It is the goal of every Marist to exemplify that love as best we can, but, as we so woefully experience, we often fall short of that goal.
Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M., noted spiritual writer, has some words of consolation for us. "My own basic goal is to give myself as fully as possible to being a compassionate presence in our world. I've discovered I cannot push, hurry or control this goal. I do what I can and try not to be discouraged when I am anything but a compassionate presence. I entrust my goal into God's hands and pray to be open to God's grace. I keep returning to my fundamental objective, day after day. Each time my steps take me ever so faintly toward he gates of my focus." I might add, that the burning love of Jesus will eventually melt away the dross which prevents us from radiating his love. Daily presence with him, will lead to a fully compassionate presence to, ourselves and others.
Bro. Rene
Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M., noted spiritual writer, has some words of consolation for us. "My own basic goal is to give myself as fully as possible to being a compassionate presence in our world. I've discovered I cannot push, hurry or control this goal. I do what I can and try not to be discouraged when I am anything but a compassionate presence. I entrust my goal into God's hands and pray to be open to God's grace. I keep returning to my fundamental objective, day after day. Each time my steps take me ever so faintly toward he gates of my focus." I might add, that the burning love of Jesus will eventually melt away the dross which prevents us from radiating his love. Daily presence with him, will lead to a fully compassionate presence to, ourselves and others.
Bro. Rene
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Zeal
Zeal is not a word that is part of our contemporary vocabulary. When is the last time you heard someone, even a priest during a homily, use it? Even when we hear a reference to the apostle, Simon the Zealot, it sounds like "republican" or "demorcrat" more than a description of his personality, although it was a faction at the time to which he belonged: Jews who zealously wanted to live the Scriptures and work for the restoration of the kingdom of Israel.
St. Charles Borromeo, whose Memorial is observed today, was a short man, 5'4", but a dynamo on fire with love of Jesus, and love of the Church. When he became Archbishop and later Cardinal of Milan, he set the diocese abalze with reform with his infectious and unyielding zeal. He understood the Church's mission and untied it from the bonds of corruption and indifference that had stagnated the growth of the faithful. He lived at the time of the Reformation and labored tirelessly to correct the abuses that had led up to it. Like the tiny mustard seed, this man, small of stature, cultivated a community of faith that became a strong and vigorous tree.
Speaking with pastors, campus ministers, and teachers, I find that, for the most part, the "faithful" in their hands have little or no knowledge of their faith or of God, much like Jean Baptiste Montagne, the young lad St. Marcellin encountered on his death bed. "We're starting from scratch" sums up the situation. It can be discouraging, but the example of these zealous saints urges us on to find our own zeal, determination, persistence, patience, and, above all, LOVE, for these young people who don't ever realize their spiritual poverty. May we take to heart St. Paul's admonition: "Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord" (Romans 12:11).
Bro. Rene
St. Charles Borromeo, whose Memorial is observed today, was a short man, 5'4", but a dynamo on fire with love of Jesus, and love of the Church. When he became Archbishop and later Cardinal of Milan, he set the diocese abalze with reform with his infectious and unyielding zeal. He understood the Church's mission and untied it from the bonds of corruption and indifference that had stagnated the growth of the faithful. He lived at the time of the Reformation and labored tirelessly to correct the abuses that had led up to it. Like the tiny mustard seed, this man, small of stature, cultivated a community of faith that became a strong and vigorous tree.
Speaking with pastors, campus ministers, and teachers, I find that, for the most part, the "faithful" in their hands have little or no knowledge of their faith or of God, much like Jean Baptiste Montagne, the young lad St. Marcellin encountered on his death bed. "We're starting from scratch" sums up the situation. It can be discouraging, but the example of these zealous saints urges us on to find our own zeal, determination, persistence, patience, and, above all, LOVE, for these young people who don't ever realize their spiritual poverty. May we take to heart St. Paul's admonition: "Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord" (Romans 12:11).
Bro. Rene
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Faith, Love and Schools)
It has been said, "Love me first and then I will believe." Words might be able to excite the mind, but action stirs the heart. When St. Damien contracted leprosy and could speak from the heart on common ground with the other lepers, they flocked to his hut and to the Church on Sundays to be with him. St. Martin de Porres, whom we remember today, was not a preacher, but put his medical knowledge to work to care for the health needs of the poor in Lima, Peru and won the hearts of thousands for the faith. Adults taught us as children that "Actions speak louder than words." As our daily experiences teach us, the truth of that adage is verified over and over again. St. Marcellin's basic premise in education was to "love the children, all of them, and equally." A teacher said to me this morning, as he looked at a somewhat lethargic homeroom, "We've gotta keep loving them."
Sometimes it is shocking to hear teens express their doubts or disbelief, or rejection of Catholic teaching, as they go through their "rebellion period", but that is no reason to stop loving them, but the very reason to love them more. They appreciate genuine love, and in the end that is what will bring them back.
Love is first exprienced in the family; friendships help develop love; school, which occupies a huge chunk of the day, plays a major role in helping love mature. A Catholic school has the mission and added advantage of teaching the faith in the context of love. Thus, our schools are essential to the future of the Church, as Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan has pointed out in an excellent article in America, the Jesuit weekly magazine. (September 18, 2010). May the love for our children and our schools foster our own faith as well as the faith of the young.
Bro. Rene
Sometimes it is shocking to hear teens express their doubts or disbelief, or rejection of Catholic teaching, as they go through their "rebellion period", but that is no reason to stop loving them, but the very reason to love them more. They appreciate genuine love, and in the end that is what will bring them back.
Love is first exprienced in the family; friendships help develop love; school, which occupies a huge chunk of the day, plays a major role in helping love mature. A Catholic school has the mission and added advantage of teaching the faith in the context of love. Thus, our schools are essential to the future of the Church, as Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan has pointed out in an excellent article in America, the Jesuit weekly magazine. (September 18, 2010). May the love for our children and our schools foster our own faith as well as the faith of the young.
Bro. Rene
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Blessed Are They
The commemoration of all the souls of the faithful departed today, sets the tone for the month of November. As the grays of autumn gradually take over, a certain somberness about the cycle of life emerges. Yes, the growing season is over, frost is around the corner, and many trees are totally bare already. Stark realities, once hidden by leaves and colorful flowers, are apparent. So is the shorness of life. Yet, our faith assures us that death is not the end. It is a stage in the cycle of life; we move from this temporary phase to the eternal where our current mortality is transformed to immortality. "The souls of the just are in the hands of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their deparure was thought to be a disaster, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace....their hope is full of immortality." (Wisdom 3: 1-4).
Today, as we pay special attention to our departed loved ones, we are assured that they are alive, more than ever, and are in the hands of God. We miss them, especially those whose lives in our estimation were too short, but in praying for and with them this month, we will come to the conclusion that they are truly blessed, and so are we, for we believe that we shall see them again after a brief period of separation. We read the Beatitudes at yesterday's Mass, and echoing today is the second one: "Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted." (Matt 5: 4). May we grow in faith and wisdom as we ponder our loved ones and our own place in the cycle of life.
Bro. Rene
Today, as we pay special attention to our departed loved ones, we are assured that they are alive, more than ever, and are in the hands of God. We miss them, especially those whose lives in our estimation were too short, but in praying for and with them this month, we will come to the conclusion that they are truly blessed, and so are we, for we believe that we shall see them again after a brief period of separation. We read the Beatitudes at yesterday's Mass, and echoing today is the second one: "Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted." (Matt 5: 4). May we grow in faith and wisdom as we ponder our loved ones and our own place in the cycle of life.
Bro. Rene
Monday, November 1, 2010
In Communion With The Saints
All Saints Day. A time to celebrate our union with those who have gone before us, and those of us who are on our way, including the souls in purgatory. We refer to this union of peoples as "The Communion of Saints". We are reminded that "in unity there is strength", for we have the help of the saints and souls in purgatory, as well as our efforts to support each other, "to know, love and serve God in this life, and be happy with him in the next" (Baltimore Catechism, remember?).
While on the Marist Youth Encounter Christ retreat in Esopus, I had a preview of that happiness and a real experience of the communion of saints, as young adult Marists gave talks and led small group discussions. I saw the "Encounterites" move from doubt to faith, shyness to all-embracing love. The joy on these faces, the embraces, the desire to stay connected (we had to pull students from other busses to their own busses, so close had they become to their new friends from our other Marist Schools. I saw the effects of grace, and the power of pulling together, which is what the communion of saints is all about...we pray to the saints and they help us, and we in turn, help one another. This is a day to pray to our patron saints and to ask them for the light, strength and guidance to bring joy to our own hearts and to those in darkness, or doubt. We will celebrate our All-School Mass this morning at 8:15 am. and will pray for you all and thus be in communion with you.
Bro. Rene
While on the Marist Youth Encounter Christ retreat in Esopus, I had a preview of that happiness and a real experience of the communion of saints, as young adult Marists gave talks and led small group discussions. I saw the "Encounterites" move from doubt to faith, shyness to all-embracing love. The joy on these faces, the embraces, the desire to stay connected (we had to pull students from other busses to their own busses, so close had they become to their new friends from our other Marist Schools. I saw the effects of grace, and the power of pulling together, which is what the communion of saints is all about...we pray to the saints and they help us, and we in turn, help one another. This is a day to pray to our patron saints and to ask them for the light, strength and guidance to bring joy to our own hearts and to those in darkness, or doubt. We will celebrate our All-School Mass this morning at 8:15 am. and will pray for you all and thus be in communion with you.
Bro. Rene
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