The Gift of Life

Today we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the death of Joseph Cardinal Bernadine, beloved Archbishop of Chicago, who was noted for his understanding, compassion and pastoral sensitivity.  He understood and lived what it means to be a Good Shepherd. Even when his was Archbishop of Cincinnati, he was known for being approachable and human,  but when he came to Chicago, these qualities became futher evident and appreciated.
When all was going well, a former seminarian accused him of sexual abuse, launching a long period of painful investigation and casting the cloud of doubt over his credibility.  The accuser, dying of AIDS, eventually withdrew the accusation, clearing Bernadin who met him and forgave him.
Soon after this, Bernadin learned he had pancreatic cancer, but kept working as long as he could, keeping notes for a book entitled A Gift of Life.  His empathy with the sick and dying where he was in hospice care increased as did his appreciation for the gift of life.  He left us an example of how to accept graciously life on this earth as well as life in the world beyond.  May his example help us to appreciate the gift of life we enjoy as well as to accept the invevitabilty of leaving it behind to enjoy the greater gift of life that comes from being with God.  Let us continue to remember Cardinal Bernadin and all the souls of the Faithful Departed this month of the Holy Souls.
Bro. Rene
Note:  In the nine years since these slices of Daily Bread have been served, we have 80,057 recipients!