The next generation

I am preparing the materials for a mailing to solicit funds for our major renovations efforts. My focus for the renovations tends toward the idea of strengthening the foundation for the next 100 years of mission. I hope it will continue to be collaborative, in the Maryknoll spirit and beyond.
Here is a celebration of that next generation that will serve mission.

Yesterday was the ordination of Father Stephen Taluja. In the picture on the left, Father Stephen is blessing Archbishop Timothy Dolan.




















This morning was Father Stephen's first mass. Here is pictured with Sisters Janice McLaughlin, Jareen Aquino, Genie Natividad, Sue Rech, Laura Guledew, and Linda AB. Genie, Laura and Linda have nearly completed their formation as Maryknoll Sisters. Soon they will profess their vows and prepare for their first mission assignments as Maryknoll Sisters.






These committed people, far more than the buildings, are the foundation for the next generation of making God's love visible.

(Photos thanks to Maryknoll Fathers Joe Veneroso and Dennis Moorman)

Poverty and Simplicity

Some of us have been reading articles and sharing conversation around the vow of poverty during the last few months.

I am out of times that focused on simple living. "Live simply that others may simply live."

A lot of religious discussion on poverty addresses the common good.

In some many ways, simple lifestyle was easy in Bura-Tana, Kenya. There wasn't much to have so we didn't have to worry to much about choices. And the focus of our day to day ministries were integral human development--helping people with basic needs. So maybe I am spoiled. I didn't have much money and didn't have anything to spend it on except basics (rice, beans, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, kale and collard greens [locally, sukumu wiki--low cost greens to push the week until something else could be found].

Now, I try to learn and be informed by a bigger consciousness of common good--common good of the whole of everything--all of God's amazing, magnificent creation. The idea of footptrint (usually as in carbon footprint) can be expanded.

How much do I need?

How much do I use?

In addition to trying to reduce my carbon footprint,
what about reducing my attention footprint--listening, and paying attention more to a bigger world than demanding attention for my own.
How about expanding my mindfulness footprint?

Seeking peace

Inspirational Poems or really quotes. Takes a few minutes, but some nice things to reflect on.

Friday afternoon

Some days it is easier to be a seeker than other days. Perhaps it has something to do with remembering the purpose of the seeking.

It's Friday afternoon. And I am thinking: blessings and peace to all.

Music Sharing

The Power of Beauty in the Internet/Global Sharing:

Stand By Me International Street

International Orchestra

We can work together for beauty and good in our world.

Praying for Peace in Africa

Prayer for Peace in Africa