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)

After

We wake up this morning either excited or disappointed at the results of the US elections. Both John McCain and Barack Obama were masterful in making the more important point: it isn't this result that matters as much as the choices we will all make after.

Many years ago, I read a book by a Jewish philosopher. I have tried to locate a certain passage again, never successfully. Now I can't even remember the philosopher's name. But I remember this image: the nuclear holocaust has taken place, the last living man on earth contemplates his next action. What does he do? He goes out to turn swords into ploughshares. Even if his messianic faith has been destroyed, he serves the bigger vision.

What was the right thing for any one of us to do last week, is the right thing to do today, tomorrow:
to act justly
to love tenderly
to walk humbly with God.
(Micah 6:8)

Both John McCain and Barack Obama invite us to serve a cause greater than ourselves--a dream bigger than ourselves, a hope that inspires and challenges us.

God bless all the newly elected leaders in their future service. And God bless all of us who have to exercise our responsible citizenship every day--each contributing our gifts and talents to serve that bigger vision. We are all the people of God, called to serve the body of Christ.

Humility and service in seeking God.

Phil 2:5-11: humbled himself, becoming obedient
Ps 22: I will fulfill my vows
Lk 14:15-24 Invited to the feast

Show up

• show up for the wedding feast
• show up to be a responsible citizen
• show up to knock on God's door and allow God to knock on mine

Be courageous and seek the Lord. Be courageous and seek your mission, your purpose.

Be courageous and serve the people of God.