Those Who Have Blessed Us

Most days in the liturgical year bring to mind and honor a particular saint whose life is set before us as an example and inspiratuon to help us on our own journeys.  These holy ones have lived through the basic struggles of the human condition and by the grace of God and power of the Holy Spirit at work within them, they have reached the point of loving so fully that they are now united with God for all eternity.  Their presence in the course of their lives, now in the collective memory of the Church, and from their place in heaven were and are a source of blessing.  The story is told of the influence St. Ignatius had on the 10 soldiers who were assigned to bring him to Rome from Antioch for martydom.  As was the custom, he paid their expenses, arranged for their food and lodging along the way  and turned out to be such a blessing to them that they became Christians and also suffered martyfdom.
 If we think about it, we can call to mind people who have had a powerful influence on us along our journeys so far: parents, grandparents, relatives, friends, teachers or even people we talk to during a plane trip.  Perhaps their influence is taken for granted or only appreciated in hind-sight, and for that reason, some periodic reflection, recognition and expressed gratitude are in order.  Thus, Central Catholic has invited grandparents to school today, to pray for and with them, to thank them for the blessing they are, to share a meal with them, show them the school, and help them realize how their presence itself is a blessing.  All of us might take a moment here and there to call, visit, or write to those who bless us, certainly to pray for them and thank God for them daily.
Bro. Rene