Although the 17th Sunday of Ordinary Time takes precedence, the Marist Brothers of the United States commemorate this day (the feast of St. Anne and Joachim) as "Vow Day" for many older Brothers. Known as the Province of St. Anne, it made sense for new members to take the Marist Habit and pronounce Vows on this day, a custom which prevailed for many years. The custom ended in the late fifties when August 15th became "the big day" for the taking of the Habit and pronunciation of First Vows. Now, with smaller numbers and the Corona Virus, Vow day is fluid and at the choice of Master of Novices and the candidate.
Today's Gospel would be a fitting reading for Vow Day, for it focuses on "the pearl of great price", a gift worth the sacrifice of power, wealth, and fame, for it is for Christ, the Pearl, that he calls us to direct our energy and make him the Goal of Goals. Even for those who do not aspire to religious life, a fully authentic Christian life must have Jesus as its main focus and goal. Today's Gospel reminds us that it is this that "really matters". Can we take some time today to review what really matters in our lives?
Bro. Rene
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