Sister Linda's Blog

2011-09-18T16:14:00.000-07:00

We have all heard on the news and read in the newspapers about how our economy is in a terrible state. High unemployment ravages our country. The poor get poorer. Crime is up because people are desperate. Today's gospel is about justice, generosity, and desires.

The Gospel reading today is about the owner of a vineyard who paid the men that he hired late in the afternoon the same wage that he paid those who had worked all day. Those who worked all day challenged the owner and felt they were being cheated. The owner, however, pointed out to them that he agreed to pay them the usual wage, therefore, he did not cheat them. He also pointed out that he can be as generous as he wants with his money.
It is easy for me to recognize that God is generous with all people. This time my reflection took me to think about the economy of our lives? Like the workers who were hired first, do we want more than what is fair? Do we think that we deserve more than another person? Are we jealous of God's or another person's generosity? Perhaps the economy of our country and our lives would improve if we paid attention to our desires. Are the things we want beneficial or necessary to our lives? What can we let go of and share with others so that others can have their share?
I reflected also that we might try embracing our poverty. I am not saying it is okay to be economically poor, hungry, homeless. I am saying quit whining about what you don't have. If you are blessed with good health, a place to live, adequate nourishment,, why moan about not having the latest fashion, iphone, ipad, x-box, or largest flat screen TV. God is generous and will give us what we need. I have often heard that God's generosity will not be outdone. While we need to do what we can to help ourselves, we also need to place our trust in God who loves us more than we could ever imagine.

JESUS' PRESENCE AT THE WORKPLACE

2011-09-05T16:17:00.000-07:00

What motivates you to go to work and do what you do? Is it just a pay check or prestige? Is it obligation? Is it passion and joy for what you are doing, or is just out of necessity? We all have different reasons or motives for choosing a career or profession. We all need to work in order to make a living for ourselves, our community, or to provide for a family.
For some people their job, the place they work, and the people they work with are great. Going to work is not a burden. For others the job is okay, but their co-workers may be unpleasant or difficult or uncooperative. And for some, their co-workers are okay, however, they hate their job. Since most of us do not work alone, what if before the work day begins, we and those co-workers who would choose to do so, get together for a short prayer, or a scripture reading, and to offer prayer intentions.

Jesus said in Sunday's Gospel, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them." It would be a good reminder to all that Jesus in present as we go about our work each day. Maybe we and our co-workers would be more kind, cooperative, and more pleasant. Perhaps it would make work not feel like a burden. Maybe I am a dreamer.
Each morning when I get to school I invite Christ to be with me throughout the day as I teach and interact with my students and co-workers. A few of us teachers used to pray for a few minutes, but once the person who organized it left, no one picked up the ball to continue. I think I will invite others to join me in prayer in the morning. I will let you know the outcome. Will you take a chance and try it at your place of work? If so, let me know about it.

Pearl of Great Price

2011-08-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to post for the last few weeks, however, I had a family emergency, then I went to Cape May for retreat. When I got back, we had a discernment weekend in community, I had to get my classroom ready, and attend three inservices. I will try to get back to regular posting.
Last month was the gospel reading of the parable of the pearl of great price. I went to retreat hoping to reclaim and deepen that Christ is my pearl of great price. This was a different retreat for me in that I had a different conference time with my director than I have had in the past. I prayed in a different area of the beach. I had to set up my prayer times differently, and I had to learn how just to be. Well, I prayed with the Song of Songs, the Good Shepherd passage from John's Gospel, and a few others. I sat on a rock near the jetty reflecting and letting the ocean waves hit my legs. As the water swirled around me, I was reminded that my relationship with God is like a dance, a movement, or a symphony. It is give and take, back and forth, gentle, and sometimes turbulent. I also imagined that it was God's graces swirling around me.
I made my own footprints in the moist sand, and picked up several seashells. I sat in my beach chair and took long walks in the evening as I continued to pray and reflect. During one of my reflections midway through the retreat I was reflecting on how Jesus, while in the tomb, was waiting for the transformation to become and be what he fully was from the beginning before he came to earth--God. He was coming home to himself.
When I am on retreat, I always have the sense of not only being still, but also coming home to myself. Rabbi Heschel said, "Just to be is a blessing." To be and become who I am fully meant to be as a person and as a Sister of St. Joseph continues to unfold. Not only is God my pearl of great price, but the graces I have received are pearls of great price also.

JUBILEE

2011-07-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, five of our sisters celebrated their 60Th jubilee. Some family members and friends of the jubilarians were also present for the occasion. The jubilarians are Sr. Ann Amen, Sr. Leonella Gingenbach, Sr. Mary Carol Hoke, Sr. Maria Onuffer, and Sr. Barbara Ann Zakutney. After a lovely liturgy, there was a brunch for all who attended.

I am always in awe of God's fidelity to the sisters and the sisters fidelity to God for sixty years. I get excited about God's fidelity and my fidelity for these past nineteen and a half years. I know that it takes prayer, reflection, relationships within the community, and a personal relationship with Christ to continue nurturing my vocation as a Sister of St. Joseph.

I would ask you to pray each day as I do for all women and men religious that their fidelity and love of God will deepen. Pray as well for those who are considering vocations.

SACRED HEART OF CHRIST

2011-07-19T07:10:00.000-07:00

On the Feast of the Sacred Heart I was reflecting on what makes Christ's heart so beautiful. It contains so much love for all people; the sinners, the saints, the lost, the broken, the rich, the poor, the young and the old. (I'm sure you could add more). Christ's heart holds so much mercy and forgiveness and so much sorrow for a troubled world. When I see the Sacred Heart it reminds me that Christ has the strength for the despairing. His heart longs for each of us to be united with him. It also contains much joy when the lost are found, the broken are healed, and sinners repent.

Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto thine.

GOLDEN JUBILEE

2011-06-20T05:52:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday two of our sisters, Sr. Michele Healy and Sr. Moira Sullivan, celebrated fifty years in community. With family, sisters, associates, and friends present, the celebration was wonderful. At the liturgy, Fr. Sullivan, Sr. Moira's brother, gave a beautiful homily. Also, all the sisters were invited to renew their vows along with Moira and Michele. Later, a dinner was held at the Shriner's Club. Then, in the evening, a picnic was enjoyed by all.

At each jubilee I can't help but reflect on the fidelity of the sisters celebrating, but also on the fidelity of God who called each of them to this way of life. Each sister has her own story of how and why she felt called to religious life, as well as how she responded. Some have known from a very young age that they wanted to be in community, well others struggled with making a decision and waited a few more years. However, no matter what the call story is, each sister continues to be faithful to God, to her congregation, and the ministry in which she is involved. Each one continually chooses to daily say, "Yes" to the deepening of the relationship with God and with those to whom she serves. Fidelity is enhanced through prayer, community, and even in times of trouble or despair. Our fidelity as Sisters of Saint Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania carries on a tradition of 150 years of women meeting the needs of the "dear neighbor."

As I have mentioned in other posts, I have been in community for nineteen years. Each day I am grateful for God's faithfulness to me and the grace for me to be faithful to God. Continue to pray for us, and for those who will yet be called.

GENTLENESS, PEACE, JOY

2011-06-05T15:34:00.000-07:00

This is the last week of school for me. I always find this time of year to be stressful. Trying to close up my classroom, teaching the students whose brains are already on vacation, and keeping up with the rest of life can take its toll on me. So how do I get through it all? It takes just three words; gentleness, peace, and joy to keep me on the straight and narrow.

My spiritual director gave me these words from our Maxims of Perfection which tell us to approach each task with gentleness, peace, and joy. As I begin my day I pray for peace as I get ready and leave for school. Before the students come into the classroom I pray for patience and gentleness that is so much needed at this time of year. During the day, as I realize that I have been patient and gentle, I find joy in who I am as Sister of Saint Joseph, a teacher, and a beloved of God.
I never get my classroom finished by the last day of school and always have to return for a couple of days to get done. However, by keeping those three words in the forefront of my prayer I can do the best I can knowing that it will take me longer than everyone else without getting worked up about it. So, I look at my classroom and think to myself I will be here as long as it takes therefore, be at peace.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD

2011-05-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. This always falls on the Fourth Week of Easter. In today's gospel reading Jesus tells us how the Shepherd calls each of his sheep by name. The sheep know his voice and they follow. The sheep also know that the Shepherd will lead them to pasture. How do we hear the Jesus, the Good Shepherd, call each of us by name?

I know for myself that being faithful to taking some quiet time to be still and listen is important. Leaving room in my heart for the Shepherd and not crowding it with other things that would not allow space for Him to enter is crucial to my spiritual well-being. It is through the image of the Good Shepherd in the book, "Hinds Feet in High Places," by Hannah Hurnard that I came to know many years ago that I could have a relationship with Christ. Ever since, when I need to rekindle that relationship, I go back to the image of the Good Shepherd. He truly laid down his life for me.

Jesus also said in the gospel today that he came that we may have life abundantly. In following Christ I can be aware each evening as I pray my Examen of the blessings of each day. Then, at the end of each week when I list the graces I have been given, I realize how blessed I truly am and how abundant are the graces.

Today also marks the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Pray that more young men and women will hear the voice of the Shepherd and will come and follow.

CHRIST IS PRESENT

2011-05-04T15:06:00.000-07:00

I enjoy looking at the daily readings after Easter. Between Easter and Pentecost the readings are all from the New Testament. My favorites are Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb and the disciples on the way to Emmaus. I like to imagine the joy they felt when they recognized the risen Christ. There are times in my own prayer when I recognize Christ's presence, not only with me, but also in what I learn or discover about Christ or myself. My relationship with Him may deepen, or I may understand a situation more fully.

In other readings during this time we listen to how St. Peter or St. Paul proclaim Christ's presence to the people in the cities and towns to which they traveled. Where and to whom do I/you proclaim Christ's presence? How do we do this in our communities, with our families, and those to whom we minister and with whom we minister? A few years ago a retreat director told me to invite Christ each and every day to wherever I go to increase my awareness of Him being with me. It also reminds me of whom I am in the presence of when I see the faces of all the "dear neighbors" that I meet each day.
Another theme in these post-Easter readings is the new community of the followers of Jesus. The readings describe how they share all things in common, looking out for widows and orphans, and participated in the breaking of the bread. It seems as though there was no looking out for number one going on in these communities! So, as you continue to listen and read these New Testament passages, be aware of how Christ is present to you and how you bring His presence to others.

TRIDUUM

2011-04-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Triduum means "Three Days." These days that begin today with Holy Thursday are the pinnacle of the church year. About 20+ years ago I had the privilege to teach the catechumens at my home parish about the liturgies of the Triduum. I remember telling them to use all their senses. These days are filled with wonderful rituals to observe and in which to take part. They are filled with the smell of incense. The readings remind us of how we were saved by God through God's Son, Jesus Christ. We hear about the covenant God made with the Israelites and their journey from slavery in Egypt to freedom. We listen to St. Paul tell us about the dying and rising to new life with Jesus and that death has no more power over Him nor over us. Then we are sprinkled with the waters of Baptism and renew our baptismal promises.
For me these days draw me to reflect on the passion and death of Jesus. The Ignation way of praying by using my imagination and placing myself at the different scenes of Christ's passion and death are most helpful to me. Read a passage from scripture. Then sit quietly with it and place yourself in the passage. You can be one of the people from that passage or be yourself. Be part what is going on. Pay attention to what Jesus may be saying to you personally. Also be aware of how you respond and behave in this scene. Pay attention to what you are feeling. After the time of reflection, I always find it helpful to journal about the experience.

Many blessings to all of you this Easter.

SURRENDER

2011-04-17T11:42:00.000-07:00

This morning I read the four gospel accounts of Jesus' passion and death. The theme of surrender came through to me.

First, during the last supper, Judas surrendered to the evil and fear within himself to betray Jesus. He was afraid of the religious and Roman authorities. Judas thought that Jesus' way of doing things and his preaching would cause more trouble for Jesus, the disciples, and the people. He was partly correct. The religious leaders did not approve of Jesus and as we all know plotted to get rid of him. Surrendering to fear, Judas made a deal to turn Jesus over to them. When have you surrendered to fear rather than do good?

Secondly, after the Last Supper, Jesus and his disciples went to the Mount of Olives. He asked Peter, James and John to go a little further with him. At prayer Jesus prayed to his Heavenly Father to please somehow not let the events that were about to happen take place. Jesus then went over to Peter, James, and John and found them asleep. One gospel said that they surrendered to their grief, so they slept. This must have been a very sad moment for Jesus to see that he could not count on them to be strong. He returned to prayer and again asked God to take away the cup he was about to drink. However, this time Jesus surrendered to his Father's will. This is what he was called to do. Have you ever surrendered to grief that you slept to avoid it? Was there ever a time when you found it difficult to surrender to God's will in your life? How did you surrender to God's will? What happened after you did so? What happened or would have happened if you did not surrender to the will of God?

Then Jesus was brought before Pilate. After much questioning Pilate could not find any reason to keep Jesus. The religious leaders were adamant about putting Jesus to death. They incited the crowds who kept yelling, "Crucify Him." No matter what Pilate said or did, the crowds would not be satisfied until they got their way. Fearing a riot or dissension with the higher authorities, and fear for his own position, Pilate surrendered to the crowds. He washed his hands and gave Jesus over to be crucified. When have you surrendered to doing what you know is not the right thing to do? When have you not stood for the innocent?

In the end, hanging on the cross, Jesus surrendered his spirit into his Father's hands.

AWAKEN AND COME OUT

2011-04-10T15:16:00.000-07:00

Spring is a time of new life. Birds migrate back to the north. In fact, you can once again hear the bird chirping early in the morning. The sun rises earlier. The skyline on a clear morning as I drive to school is beautiful to behold. We have a few warm days to give us a glimpse of summer. The snow has finally melted and green grass is visible. Soon the trees will begin to have buds on them. The crocuses have already popped out of the ground. Everything that has been asleep all winter will now awaken and come out.

How fitting that we celebrate the resurrection of Christ in Spring. As Jesus called Lazarus in today's gospel to "come out" I too am looking forward to coming out. I have been reflecting on what needs to be awakened in me. Perhaps these thoughts will help you also in your reflection.

How is Christ calling you to "come out"?

Does your relationship with God need to be awakened?

Does your self-confidence need to come out?

Do you need to awaken in yourself to be more hospitable, more kind, more generous?

Does a positive attitude, service toward others, or forgiveness need to come out?

Does your passion for life need to be awakened?

My sense of awakening and coming out is stirring now that it is spring. My whole being seems to come alive as the weather gets warmer. My mood is elevated and I have a hopefulness of new life and energy. We have ten more days in Lent. We may still experience the passion and death with Jesus during Holy Week. However, we can look forward to the promise of resurrection in the here and now as well as at the end of time.

BRADFORD

2011-04-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

As part of our 150th Anniversary Celebration this year, many of us went to Bradford, PA to celebrate with the people there. Many of our sisters are natives of Bradford, Lewis Run, and the surrounding areas. We began with liturgy at Saint Bernard's. Then everyone went across the street to a hall where there was a lovely reception.

Our sisters served in the schools in that area for many years. Although I have never ministered in Bradford, it was wonderful to hear the memories shared and the comments about how the sisters reached out to people. There was a wall filled with cards congratulating us and thanking us for our years of service that were made by children who probably were born long after the sisters were gone from the area. The old school is torn down now and a Tops supermarket is in its place. As one woman said, "Little do people know they are shopping on hallowed ground."

I am happy that I went to this celebration as it has helped me know a little more of our history in Bradford and the people whose lives were touched by our sisters.

THE WOMAN AT THE WELL

2011-03-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Water is an essential part of our lives. Think about all the ways in which we use water: for drinking; cooking; washing; bathing; and swimming. Water brings life to plants. Then there are those places without water: the desert-dry and arid; countries where water is such a precious commodity that they must walk miles to get clean water. Things wither and die without water. And of course we know the destruction water can cause by flooding and the recent tsunami in Japan.

In the first reading today the Israelites were physically thirsty and they grumbled against God and Moses, who provided water for them to drink. In the Gospel the Samaritan Woman was spiritually thirsty. Her thirst is quenched when she meets a stranger by the well. This unnamed woman has looked for love and acceptance by drawing from wells that failed to satisfy. She longs for relationship with others and with God.

Are we not like the Samaritan Woman? We long to be in relationship with others. Our souls thirst for God. We seek truth about ourselves as well as the truth about our relationship with God. We draw water from countless wells: wells of success; wells of importance; wells of praise; wells of pleasure; and wells of pride. You can probably name some of your own wells.

Jesus, in his asking for a drink, was offering the grace of living water. The Samaritan Woman was resistant. She wanted to go about her own work and not be bothered by this Jewish man. Think about those times when you may have resisted grace. You may have been too busy, not open to change, did not want to go out of your way, and so on. As Jesus said, "...if you only knew who it is that is speaking to you."

The Samaritan woman, perhaps out of curiosity, continues to speak to and challenge the stranger. However as their conversation continues, she begins to listen and challenges less. She begins to let her guard down seeing that this man is someone who listens to her and is accepting of who she is. Slowly the grace of living water begins to seep into her thirsty soul. Then when Jesus reveals to her, "I am he who is speaking to you," the grace begins to flow and her soul is open to receive fully the grace of the life giving waters that Jesus is offering.

Do you remember a time during prayer or retreat when, after some reflection and resistance to grace, your heart and soul surrendered and opened to receive the grace that God was offering to you? Remember how it filled you with whatever emotion you might have experienced? Remember how is quenched your thirsty soul?

Little did the Samaritan Woman know that her ordinary task that day of drawing water would turn her world around and transform her. From thirsting and longing, she was given new hope and new life.

Jesus is the only well who quenches our thirsty soul and gives us new life. As Lent continues, let us draw closer to Jesus, our life giving water.

TRANSFORMATION

2011-03-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

The gospel reading yesterday was about the Transfiguration of Jesus on Mount Tabor. Jesus' clothes became dazzling white. Once again he was reassured that he was the beloved Son of God. I think the disciples who were with him were also reassured. My reflections led me in a couple of different directions.

Jesus was no longer just a carpenter from Nazareth. He had a mission to bring about the kingdom of God. He also taught others about God's abundant love and gracious mercy. He followed God's call wherever it took him. On Mount Tabor, Jesus must have gathered strength and confidence as well as the reassurance of his identity. He needed these qualities to continue his journey; a journey that would lead him to Jerusalem and to his death.

The disciples were also transformed. They saw a glimpse of Jesus' glory. They were in awe of the three presences they saw. These disciples followed Jesus closely. They also went where they were sent. Following Jesus must not have been easy for them. I would think that they had to experience the ridicule and hostility that Jesus experienced. They feared for their lives as well. Their journey led them to continue Jesus' mission even after his crucifixion and resurrection. Eventually, their journey also led to their death.

I could not help but remember the first time I heard the word transformation. I was thirty years old and attended a young adult retreat. The speaker talked about transformation, and although I can't remember all that he said, I do remember how his talk affected me. I knew that God was calling me to something more. I knew I was being called to transformation in my life. As I talked with him, I realized that I was beginning a new journey. This journey led to the people and places that guided me and strengthened me throughout this transformation. It was a twelve year journey of learning, praying, discerning God's will in my life. It was a journey of preparation to take the next step to a new transformation by entering community.

How has God called you to transformation? Who are the people and events that led you to be transformed?

SAINT JOSEPH'S DAY

2011-03-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday our congregation celebrated the Feast of Saint Joseph. We began with an uplifting liturgy. During the liturgy, the sisters renewed their vows and our associates renewed their commitment. I always find renewing our vows to be a sacred moment. It is each of us proclaiming our "Yes" once again. It is also a reminder of what we said yes to. It is a time to celebrate who we are as Sisters of Saint Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Our vows, our charism, our spirituality, and our mission are deeply a part of our being. As I said a couple of weeks ago, I thank God for this call and for who I am.

The liturgy was followed by a wonderful brunch. The celebration committee as well as others set and decorated the tables. Our kitchen staff outdid themselves in the preparation and serving. Door prizes were given out. An enjoyable time was had by all.

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

2011-03-13T12:58:00.000-07:00

Today's Gospel reading from Matthew is about Jesus' temptation in the desert. He had just heard God calling him his "Beloved Son" when he was baptized in the Jordan. Then the Spirit led him into the desert. There he was tempted by Satan three times. I have heard some wonderful homilies on this passage. What I want to share is a reflection I remember that has always stuck with me and also some of my own thoughts.
Satan begins each of the three the temptations with, "IF you are the Son of God..." He is obviously aware of what Jesus heard at the Jordan and wants to test him. Satan tries to play on Jesus' weakness. He is expressing his doubt of Jesus' identity. By tempting him, Satan thinks that Jesus will also begin to doubt his own identity as the Son of God.

What about you? When, where, what and by whom have you found cause to doubt your own identity as a beloved son or daughter of God? Has there been a time when someone did not think you were good enough or capable enough to do a task or complete a job even when you thought you could do so? Did you do something to prove yourself, or did you just believe what the other person said? How did you feel? Was your self-confidence stripped away?

Perhaps there have been times when you caused yourself to not believe in your own identity as a beloved of God. You may have failed at a task. You may have lost your job. You may have hurt someone. So you put yourself down and doubt your own self-worth. You may even feel that you are unlovable. No matter what we say or do, God never disowns us and always calls us back. God never stops loving us, nor does God ever decide that we can't be God's beloved anymore. Being loved by God gives us dignity and strength to be and do all that we can in Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Often, when we are on retreat, we may given a chance to pray and reflect on how much God loves us. We are renewed and reminded that we are God's beloved son or daughter and that nothing can separate us from the love of God. We can rejoice in the graces we received because we do recognize who we are in the sight of God.

Remember, Satan will do or say anything to make you feel like an "Unbeloved" of God. In those times of temptation or doubt, allow yourself to be filled with the love of God. Hear God say to you, " You are my beloved son/daughter on whom my favor rests."

LENT

2011-03-13T12:41:00.000-07:00

Lent began last Wednesday with Catholics receiving ashes on their foreheads as a sign reminding us of who we are and how we were made. This is a time to return to the Lord by prayer, fasting, and alms giving. It is a time of reflection and prayer. We do a lot of focusing on our physical well being. However, Lent is a time to focus on our spiritual well being. It calls us to renew our relationship with God, go deeper into prayer, be reconciled to others, and care for those in need. How will you spend this Lent?

While we are renewing our spiritual selves, nature is also renewing itself. We will see little more sunlight each evening. The snow will melt. The birds have already begun to chirp more. Hope for warmth and sunshine and summer days is renewed. We look forward to not only more sunlight but also the light of Christ to come back into our lives that we may share his light with others.

MAGNIFICAT

2011-03-05T12:24:00.001-08:00

This past Tuesday, March 1st, was the nineteenth anniversary of my entrance into community. Each year, when this date comes around, I can't help feeling a sense of awe that God has called me to religious life. I say a prayer of thanksgiving and reflect on my life as a Sister of Saint Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Last year I wrote a Magnificat and I have been praying it ever since. I want to share it with you. The only change I made is the number of years.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord

And my spirit rejoices for the past nineteen years.

For God who has called me to religious life has blessed me.

Trustworthy is His name.

You have gifted me with courage to risk

You've graced me with perseverance and hope.

When I was down and desperate for help

you held me tightly.

You nourished my soul.

You have given me companions on the journey

Who guide me, strengthen me, and teach me.

They pray and listen, love and challenge me to grow.

For these I give thanks.

You have given me a vision for my life.

You've deepened a charism in me.

Drawing me closer to you has drawn me to long for

and love you more.

I am your delight!

From now on your love will chase after me

everyday of my life,

And I will know your love and fidelity

as you promised to me forever.

TRANSFORMATION

2011-02-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

I just came back from the first of three phases of a workshop on the Transformation of Religious Life in North America. About 130 men and women religious attended this meeting which included those in leadership positions, formation personnel, and newly professed members. We discussed the importance of religious communities not remaining the way they have always been. They must move forward and transform themselves to continue the mission to which they were called at their founding. Religious communities need to let go of the memories that encumber them and hold on to the memories that energize them.

There was time for table discussion at which each person expressed where they felt their congregation was a this point in time about transformation. The facilitators/speakers, Luisa Saffiotti and Finten Sheenan are well known to the Religious Formation Conference and gave us much to ponder by stirring up a lot of questions we need to ask ourselves. The weekend was heavy, however, it was also very exciting. I think the most important point I brought back with me is the urgency of transformation of religious life.

PRAYER

2011-02-27T16:06:00.000-08:00

With my prayer group a couple of weeks ago, we reflected on the importance of praying and sitting in silence for twenty minutes a day. The reflection mentioned all the possibilities that sitting in silence can do for us and how it can change us on the different situations of our lives. It helped us to see how we can grow in relationship with others as well as with our God. With all the noise in the world, our culture, and the business of our lives we need to take that twenty minutes a day to help keep us in balance. We need prayer and quiet time. I (we) cannot function well without it.

SALT AND LIGHT

2011-02-06T10:57:00.000-08:00

Today's reading from Matthew 5:13-16 has so much to reflect on. I will try to sum up some of the two homilies I heard and my own reflection. Jesus said, "YOU are the salt of the earth," and, "YOU are the light of the world."

My first reflection was on those who have been light and salt for me. These people have shown me the way when I felt I was in darkness. They put flavor in my life when I felt flat or lacked enthusiasm. Some of these people brought the light of scripture to me and taught me how to pray with God's Word. Others helped me journal and voice what was going on in my heart and in my relationships with Christ and other people. For these people, I am deeply grateful.

Then I reflected on how I am salt and light for others. All of our gifts and talents are given for the common good. St. Paul says that in his letter to the Corinthians. So, where and how are my gifts shared? First of all I think with my students and their families. I share with them the love of Christ for each one. I help bring light to parents who miss the fact that their child may have a learning disability or an attention issue. I bring light to how they can help their child at home. I let parents know I am praying for them.

Secondly, I try to be light and salt to my congregation. I use my gifts and talents by doing formation work, expressing enthusiasm for the life we lead, proclaiming scripture, helping to plan a community day, or planning prayer for my prayer group. I try to be light of hope and presence to the sisters in our Marycrest area.
Finally, I try to be light and salt for my family. My daughter-in-law is having surgery this Tuesday, and I am the listening ear for both her and my son. I hope to be present with them on Tuesday, however Erie weather is unpredictable. I listen to my sisters concerns, my mother's joys and woes. Being a listening ear helps keep me in touch with my family.
What good is salt if it goes flat? It will not flavor the food. Jesus said we do not put a lamp under a bushel basket, but rather we put it out where all can see it and benefit from its light. So must we use our gifts and talents to be and do for others and it is all for the glory of God. Our faith is not just a "me and God" kind of faith. It is a faith that must be shared. Our light can make a difference in another person's life.

How are you called to be salt of the earth and light of the world? Let your light shine!

THE BEATITUDES

2011-01-30T16:29:00.000-08:00

The Beatitudes tell us what it means to follow Jesus as a disciple. By sitting down, Jesus takes the position of a teacher. In teaching these nine statements, Jesus describes the qualities of a disciple. They are not the same as the world's expectations. Have you ever thought about what they mean? Perhaps I can share with you what I am currently teaching my students. These are simple meanings from our text book.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." The poor in spirit know their need for God.
"Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted." Those who mourn are sad because of the sorrow in our world. They will do what they can to help.
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land." The meek are kind to others and treat others fairly.
"Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied." These people give to God and others what is right and work for justice.
"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." The merciful forgive others as they want God to forgive them.
"Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God." The clean of heart keep God first in their lives.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Peacemakers solve problems without hurting others.

"Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom heaven." These people do what God wants even when doing the right thing is difficult.

"Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad for your reward will be great in heaven." Sometimes we will be called names and be hurt because we choose to follow God and his commandments.

There is so much we can reflect on in this passage. I think I will take time to reflect on how I am following Jesus in light of the Beatitudes. My students will have a test on this on Tuesday. Blessed are they who study, for they will pass the test.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

2011-01-30T15:49:00.000-08:00

Today marked the beginning of Catholic Schools Week. The theme is, "A+ for America Catholic Schools." At the opening liturgy this morning our students at Blessed Sacrament School talked about how Catholic Schools provide Achievement, Academics, Attitude, Athletics. Catholic Schools in America provide a well-rounded education. Students who graduate from Catholic Schools go on to be professionals and leaders.
After the liturgy, we had an open-house. All the teachers were in their classrooms. Third grade students and their parents came in to see what fourth grade will be like. Some of my students and their parents stopped in to say hello. Also, some of my former students came as well as their parents. It was wonderful to see them and find out how they are doing in high school and in college. It is funny how I can still picture where they sat in my classroom when they were in fourth grade.

We have several activities planned for the week which include assemblies, playing games with our buddies, writing cards to those at the VA hospital, playing bingo, and watching a movie. Not much will be normal this week in the classroom, however, the students will enjoy themselves. Someday they will realize how fortunate they were to attend a Catholic School.

GRACED MEMORIES

2011-01-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

Since Kelly's entrance last week I have been recalling my journey through formation. I found the entrance ceremony and remembered the events that led to my entering community. I next looked at my entrance into the Novitiate. I remember how unsure I was that I was ready for this next step. It was held at the Motherhouse on 8th and Liberty. I was soooo nervous. It was a time of learning the history of our congregation, its documents, and vows. It was a time of discovery of who I was in all this and how I wanted to serve God and the "dear neighbor". Then I recalled making vows for the first time. It was held at our Community Living Center. Each year after that I renewed my vows in a simple ceremony at the different houses in which I lived. Finally, I looked at my Profession ceremony. It was such a joyous occasion! Family, friends, and community members were all present. The music, the liturgy, the celebration was more than I could have hoped for.
My invitation and program covers held an image of two people dancing with the words, "My spirit dances with God who loves me." This line came from a magnificat I had written before I entered. God and I continue to dance. Sometimes, we are in-sync. Sometimes, I am out of step. Other times I try to lead and I stumble. However, throughout the dance, God always continues to hold my hand. God and I have been dancing for eighteen years. March 1st will mark my nineteenth year in community. I want the dance to go on forever!

WELCOME

2011-01-09T17:38:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, Kelly Smock entered our congregation. Kelly is a young woman who has been an associate of our congregation for six years, therefore she is no stranger to our sisters. She has lived our charism and has brought it to those with whom she works. As has been our tradition, we held the service at the house where she will be living during her Pre-Novitiate stage. Leadership, a few friends, her family, and formation personnel were present. It was a joyous occasion for all of us. During the ceremony Kelly was presented with a basket which held welcoming notes from many of our sisters in the community. I will continue walking with Kelly during this stage of formation.
Kelly is the first young woman I have had the pleasure to journey with through the Pre-Entrance stage of formation. Sometimes it seemed as if everything took so long, however, it was worth it. The day finally came.

It is a blessing when new people come to a community. They bring gifts to share, enthusiasm, and a willingness to serve God. When a new person enters it changes the whole community. I look around at all the women in our congregation and know that each one of us makes a difference in her own way. I cannot imagine the community without any one of them.

THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

2011-01-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we celebrated Epiphany. So many of the readings during Christmas and for Epiphany had to do with light and darkness. I was especially struck by the Prologue of John's Gospel where it says that the darkness will not overcome the light.

Sometimes we can get so bogged down or depressed by circumstances in our lives that we forget that Christ's light is there if we look for it. Christ is the light that shines in the darkness. In keeping watch and open to receive the light of Christ we can be filled with and recognize the graces that God is giving us.

Once we recognize the light of Christ in us, we can then be strong enough and radiate that light to others. We can bring Christ's light to those who are walking in darkness. We can help Christ bring abundant joy and lift others burdens.

Imagine yourself filled with light and surrounded with light and see what happens.

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION

2011-01-03T08:15:00.001-08:00

To post blogs more regularly. Happy New Year!

GATHERING OF VOCATION DIRECTORS

2010-11-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

Last week I attended the National Religious Vocation Conference in Cleveland. There were over 300 Vocation Directors present. The theme was "Casting the Net" Vocation Ministry in a Global Church and World. The keynote speakers included Br. David Andrews, CSC, who voiced the need for a spirituality of globalization; Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, MHSH, a native of Erie, who spoke on new technologies and the digital culture they created, which she described as mission territory for the Church; and Fr. Bryan Massingale, STD, who explored the theology of globalization. Archbishop Gregory Aymond of New Orleans, the NRVC’s episcopal liaison to the USCCB, presided at the Friday evening liturgy.

The Vatican Nuncio, Pietro Sambi was also present. He commended religious brothers and sisters for all that they do for the church and told us of the Vatican’s support of religious vocations and the important Christian witness provided by men and women in consecrated life: “The Church wants you to be successful in your catch.”

There were twenty C/SSJ Vocation Directors at the convocation. We had the opportunity to go to the Cleveland Motherhouse in Rocky River for dinner and to have a meeting. It was wonderful for us to be there. It was also good to connect with other brothers and sisters that I have met while taking workshops at CTU in Chicago.

Please continue to pray for Vocation Directors as well as for vocations.

ANOTHER TAX COLLECTOR

2010-10-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

Zacchaeus, the tax collector in today's reading, wanted to see Jesus. His obstacle was his size. He was short in stature. However, Zacchaeus thought of a way to overcome this obstacle. He climbed a tree! What are the obstacles that you or I have that may prevent us from seeing or getting closer to Jesus? What can you or I do to overcome these obstacles?

There are many instances in scripture in which we read that Jesus called, chose, or defended the outcast. He knew there was goodness in Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus must have been so surprised and excited, and perhaps even a little humbled, when Jesus asked him to come down. In choosing to call Zacchaeus and allowing him to change his ways, Jesus brought about a unity between Zacchaeus and the other people, and between Zacchaeus and God. How do we call others to unity with each other and with God? Do we create dissension between one group of people and another group?

The refrain of one of my favorite hymns at mass goes like this, "Take O take me as I am. Summon up what I shall be..." Jesus accepted everyone including tax collectors and sinners. He took them as they were. Then, Jesus summoned or called forth from them to be what he knew they could be. Jesus continues today to take each of us as we are. I know that at various times in my life, through prayer or other people, Jesus has called me to be more of what he sees in me in spite of what I may think are my obstacles. I cannot climb a tree as Zacchaeus did, however, I can continue reaching toward Christ who summons me to the more.

This week I will be attending the National Religious Vocation Conference. I am looking forward to listening to the keynote speakers and connecting with other vocation directors. The SSJ directors will gather together on Friday evening for supper and to have a meeting. Please pray for all of us and especially pray for vocations.

HUMILITY

2010-10-24T14:43:00.001-07:00

The Gospel reading for today was about the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. The Pharisee was thanking God that he was not like others, especially like the tax collector. He was also letting God know about the wonderful things he did. The tax collector, however, simply said, "Have mercy on me, O' Lord, a sinner."

When we accomplish good deeds, when we achieve a certain status in life, we have been gifted by God who accomplishes these things in us. I think humility and gratitude go hand in hand. Expressing our praise and thankfulness to God for all that we have and all that we are able to do is one form of humility because we know that we cannot do these things alone. It seems the Pharisee had a big head about who he was and what he did rather than acknowledging that God was the source and giver of his gifts. He did not ask forgiveness for any of his failings. He only wanted to show God his perfection.

The tax collector knew who and what he truly was. He did not even try to express anything good about himself. He humbled himself before God, faced his failings, and asked forgiveness. God knows what is in the human heart. It is a good thing to pat ourselves on the back once in a while when we know we have done a good job. However, it is equally important to remember to give thanks to God who has graced us and blessed us abundantly.

GUARDIAN ANGELS

2010-10-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, October 2nd was the Feast of the Guardian Angels. Do you remember the prayer you said to your guardian angel when you were a child? Do you still pray that prayer today? I was telling my students how God truly loves us to assign a guardian angel to each of us. I have the children say the guardian angel prayer at the end of each school day.
Kathy Sherman, CSJ wrote a song entitled, "Have You Ever Thanked the Angels in your Life." The song is about all those who have touched our lives by praying for us, loving us, protecting us, etc. It tells us to be grateful for and remember them in our hearts.

God does send angels to us in many different ways and circumstances. Think of someone who just happened to be there to help you at a particular moment in your life. Remember the person or persons who shared your joys and sorrows. Recall those who have mentored or guided you. I am confident that you can come up with more angels than you ever thought of before.

I still pray to my guardian angel and I thank God for all the angels in my life.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

2010-09-12T15:39:00.000-07:00

One of the gifts in my life is having a spiritual director. A spiritual director is someone with whom you can share about your relationship with God. You can talk about how your prayer life is going, what blocks or distracts you from prayer, what touches you, and where you think God is calling you. A spiritual director can help you through a discernment process in whatever you need to discern about. You can be challenged to grow in your prayer life and relationship with God.
This afternoon I met with my spiritual director. She is a Sister of Saint Joseph from Baden, Pennsylvania. I was delighted to share the graces of my retreat with her, how God touched me, and what I learned. It was a graced time as I recalled those special moments of retreat. She has known me for a long time, so it is easy for me to share with her as she knows what my spiritual journey has been and has witnessed the growth in my prayer, relationship with God, and who I am as a Sister of Saint Joseph. We meet about every four to six weeks depending on our schedules. I look forward to the two hour drive to quiet down and then meet with her. On the drive back, I recall what our conversation was and in what way she challenges me to grow. Today, she challenged me to find ways to keep the graces of retreat alive in me during the busyness of my days.
This is a part of my life that I cannot do without. Sometimes we have to reschedule when the roads are bad in winter; however, I am so grateful when I can get there to share with her. I hope your experience with your spiritual director is as enriching as mine.

LABOR DAY AND THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL

2010-09-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a good weekend. I was thinking about workers, and all the different occupations. I am grateful for those who work at night, in snowy weather, in the heat, or in places where I can't imagine. I also thought about and prayed for those who are unemployed and those making wages that still can't support their families.

I went to visit my family for the weekend. I have not been home since July 4th weekend. It was a good weekend to spend time with my mother. We did some shopping, played cards, and watched a movie. On Monday we were at one of my sisters' home where everyone gathered for a cook out. It was fun to talk to my neice and nephew, and great-neice and nephew about their first days of school. I got to share my experience of the first week of school. I have a wonderful story to tell you.

There is a new student in my class, who is also new to the school. She is African-American and is unfamiliar with anything Catholic. During the week all students were taken to church for the sacrament of Reconciliation. We invite those who are not Catholic to go into the Reconciliation Room and tell Father their name and ask for a blessing. I explained this to my new student by saying, "Tell Father your name and tell Father that you are new to our school. Then ask Father to give you a blessing." Her reply was, "You mean GOD is in there!" Needless to say I had to stifle my laugh and explain that God is everywhere, however, there is a priest inside the room. Well, she went in and a few minutes later she came out. I asked her how it went and she replied,

"Good, he said I had a nice smile." So, she was happy. I would have loved to have heard her explain this to her family when she got home.

The next day was our first school mass. Watching my new student was a delight. She was on the edge of the pew looking everywhere. She did not want to miss a thing. The rest of my class was slumped in their pews not paying attention to anything.

The first week of school I have to continually remind myself that they are still Third Graders when they can't follow simple directions. Pray for me! Pray for them!

BACK TO SCHOOL

2010-08-29T15:28:00.000-07:00

Wow! It is hard to believe that I have been home only nine days. Retreat already seems like a long time ago. Thank God I have my journal to remind me of the many graces and how truly blessed I am.

This past week I have been to two inservices, one faculty retreat, and spent two days and half of Saturday getting my classroom ready. Yes, it is time to go back to school. I don't understand why we just don't wait until after Labor Day. Winter is sooooo long in Erie that it would be nice to have that extra time to be outdoors.

For my last free day (well most of it was free) I spent a couple of hours on the beach at Presque Isle. I was happy to be in the sunshine and watch children playing in the sand or in the water. It was very relaxing to listen to the gentle lapping of the water against the shore in comparison to the roaring waves of the ocean. It was always high tide in the afternoon while I was on retreat. I watched, read, and slept.

School begins tomorrow and I look forward to meeting my new students. At the Parent Information Night I told the parents not to worry if their child comes home looking wild-eyed as fourth grade is a huge transition. They really are not fourth graders until after Christmas. So, summer fun ends and its back to lesson plans and correcting papers.

MINISTRY AND RETREAT

2010-08-22T09:59:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone. I arrived back in Erie on Friday. My trip driving to and from New Jersey was good with not too much construction and great weather.

My first five days at St. Mary's-by-the-Sea, located on the Jersey Shore, I was part of the staff. For the past eight years I have been cooking for those who are on vacation. Usually, there are about one hundred to one hundred and twenty people. This year, however, I was assigned to salads. Brother Dennis from Jamaica, NY and I were a good team. He had all the vegetables lined up with cutting boards and knives so that anyone who would volunteer to come and help chop them would know exactly what to do. I helped at this task when needed. While that was being done, Bro. Dennis and I worked on the special salad. There was always a regular salad bar and something special that Bro. Dennis would create. One evening it was tomato with fresh basil and oil, and another evening was a zucchini salad. We did fruit salads also. Our job was to get it all out before supper and clean it all up and put it away afterward.

I have been going down to this retreat house for fifteen years. For me these five days each year is way for me to give back for the generosity of the staff and the many graces I have received there while on retreat. It is a chance for me to meet new people and catch up with friends I have made while being there these many years. When I was finished with salads, I would go over to help dry pots and pans or put them away. With all the people working in the pantry, the cooking, and the salads, there is always a lot to clean before and after each meal. Two of my friends came down early on the day retreat was to begin so that we would have time to catch up with each others' lives. Then, that evening retreat began.

I am delighted to tell you that my gift from the sea was a Remembering Heart. During those eight days of silence and prayer my heart was drawn to the many different moments of my adult life when God touched me, called me, and was present to me. I was so aware of how my heart was filled with so much gratitude as I would share my prayer and reflection with the director each day. Like Ann Morrow-Lindberg I also collected small shells or stones to mark special moments of grace. I only brought one home.

On the evening before the Feast of the Assumption, candles are placed around the huge statue of the Blessed Mother that stands in the court yard facing the ocean. Many of us quietly sat out on the porches in awe of the beauty of the statue with the candles flickering in the dark. The candles were also lit on the evening of the feast. On that feast day, my director asked me to spend the day in prayer and reflection with the Blessed Mother. The day was filled with graces as I remembered significant moments of my past and Mary showing me how blessed I am.

As the graces of retreat continue to unfold, God continues to touch me, call me, and as He promised, is always present to me.

It would be an honor for me to hear about your retreat experience. Write me or e-mail me at s.lfusco@ssjerie.org if you wish to share.

HOMECOMING

2010-08-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 1st our congregation held a homecoming event as part of our 150th year celebration. It was an event to welcome and celebrate women who were once members of our congregation. It was a time of remembering, healing, sharing, and reconnecting. About sixty-seven women returned for this celebration

As soon as I walked toward the entrance of our Community Living Center, I could feel the excitement, energy and joy that came from sisters and former members greeting one another. There was hugging and laughing, bonding of members of a "crowd", and for me a great sense of awe in what was happening. The chapel was filled and the liturgy expressed the joy that was evident. Our chaplain was also touched by the excitement and joy that he heard and saw.

After the liturgy, we continued the celebration with a brunch. During this time, people continued to move around and reconnect. Pictures were taken of some of the crowds. Some of the women took a tour of our Community Living Center and Administration Building. Some even went down to 819, our old Motherhouse, to see how it has been transformed into apartments and to once again walk the hallowed halls which held so many memories for them. The celebration continued into the late afternoon.

It was wonderful to me to share in this event. I did know a few women and I also got to meet women whose names I had heard whenever one of our sisters would share a story. It was a day that all of us will remember for a while.

I am leaving tomorrow morning for retreat, so I will not be posting for a couple of weeks. I will be by the ocean looking for my own gift from the sea. Please keep me in prayer and know that I will be praying for all of you.

More on Solitude

2010-07-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

In my last posting I wrote about taking time for quiet and quoted a section from the book, "Gifts From the Sea" by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. A few pages later, she talks about how taking time for quiet reflection is helpful preparation to attend mass. Here is what she says.

"The church is still a great centering force for men and women, more needed than ever before...But are those who attend as ready to give themselves to receive its message as they used to be? Our daily life does not prepare us for contemplation. How can a single weekly hour of church, helpful as it may be, counteract the many daily hours of distraction that surround it? If we had our contemplative hour at home we might be readier to give ourselves at church and find ourselves more completely renewed."

Have you ever been distracted by all the things you need to do while you are sitting at mass? If you do, you are not alone. I find it helpful to look at the readings for Sunday ahead of time, so that I feel a little more prepared when I go to mass. It also helps me to stay focused because I want to hear what the pastor says about the readings during his homily.

During these past two months our sisters have been coming and going to and from retreat. We have also had other people, not from our community, at our Community Living Center making retreat. We know how important it is for us to make retreat not only for our relationship with Christ, but also to strengthen us to continue serving the people to whom we minister. I know that many people do not have the opportunity to be able to make retreats yearly. However, perhaps the opportunity is there for an hour each day, or one day here and there during the year to spend some quiet, reflective time.

BALANCE

2010-07-19T06:08:00.000-07:00

The Gospel reading for yesterday was the passage of Jesus' visit to the home of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus in Bethany. We heard about Martha's busyness in preparing the meal and how Jesus told her she is "anxious about many things." We also heard how Mary sat at the feet of Jesus to listen to his teaching. Which one can you identify with?

In his homily yesterday our chaplain for our Community Living Center preached about balance. During the day, I picked up the book, "Gift From the Sea" by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. I had read this book many years ago and thought I would see what it may have for me to reflect on now. She describes what a woman's life is like with distractions always present. She wrote, "For to be a woman is to have interests and duties, raying out in all directions from the central mother-core, like spokes from the hub of a wheel. The pattern of our lives is essentially circular. We must be open to all points of the compass; husband, children, friends, home, community; stretched out, exposed, sensitive like a spider's web to each breeze that blows, to each call that comes. How difficult for us, then, to achieve a balance in the midst of these contradictory tensions, and yet how necessary for the proper functioning of our lives."

I find this to be an excellent description of how many of our lives look. We are pulled in many directions. I especially like the image of the hub and spokes of a wheel. It might be interesting to take some time to draw this image and name the spokes of our busyness.

The author continues to talk about getting rid of distractions and what different kinds of seashells teach her throughout the book. Although published in 1955, I think it has a lot of wisdom for us today. As I continue to read and pray with this book, I hope I will be able to share with you more thoughts and reflections.

VOCATION DIRECTORS

2010-07-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

Vocation Directors are the first people contacted by someone who is interested in entering a religious community. They are the "gate keepers" of the congregation. It is a very serious position. There is much screening, meeting, testing that needs to be done with the applicant. The Vocation Director needs to know about the congregation's mission, ministry, spirituality, and history.

In addition to the many duties that need to be done is the attitude of the Vocation Director. This person has to have a big heart. The heart of a Vocation Director is filled with joy, faith, love for God and her/his congregation, passion, and most of all hope.

Why do I think hope is so important? Hope along with faith is what the Vocation Director needs to continue praying and working in this ministry. They pray daily to the Holy Spirit that more young men and women will respond to God's call to follow as a woman religious or brother. They know that there are people out there who are searching. They try to find ways to help these people to find what they are looking for in terms of spiritual direction, discernment, communities. Hope keeps them passionate about who they are and what they are doing. When I attended a week-long orientation for Vocation Directors, we were told that many sisters or brothers who leave community are former Vocation Directors. They left because they no longer had hope.

Let me tell you about a little group of Vocation Directors who meet monthly in our diocese. One is a Sister of Mercy. Another is a Sister of Saint Benedict. Then there is the Vicar of Religious for our diocese and myself who are Sisters of Saint Joseph. Each month we get together to pray, talk and plan how to make people aware of who we are. We also have put together a booklet of speakers available to talk on vocations or religious life. We have a website for vocations. We have been working on an idea to have articles in one of our diocesan publications. We view dvd's that are put out. We have planned Holy Hours for vocations along with the Serrans. None of us have crowds of women entering, however our hope keeps us on task.

So, while you are praying for vocations to the priesthood or religious life, remember to pray a little prayer for Vocation Directors. By the way, don't worry, I'm not leaving.

A QUOTE TO THINK ABOUT

2010-07-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

I saw this quote when recently visiting one of our sisters.

"God loves each of us as if there were only one of us."
St. Augustine

LOVE AS GOD LOVES

2010-07-03T10:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was taking some time for prayer out on Presque Isle. It was a beautiful, sunny day, warm temperature, and a cool breeze. I found a quiet spot away from the families on the beach. I reflected on the line from Jeremiah, "I have loved you with an everlasting love."

The first part of my reflection was focused on how much I am loved by God and will always be loved by God. That was easy. Then my thoughts went to the gospel reading for next Sunday about the Good Samaritan.

I don't need to go through the whole story. Jesus wanted to get across to "...love your neighbor as yourself." However, my reflection invited me to love my neighbor as God loves me. Wow! God's love is everlasting and God loves us beyond what we could ever ask or imagine. Can I love like that? Can you love like that?

I think it is important for us to keep our humanity in perspective. God never asks more of us than we can handle. Therefore, we can only love to the best of our ability. It can begin with those with whom we live and work. Sometimes, they do not get the love we have. We need to reach out to those outside who are less fortunate; the poor, the hungry, the homeless, the marginalized, etc. Jesus said that as often as we do unto one of his least people, we do it unto him. That is loving God and neighbor. There are so many good people doing many good works, but as St. Paul says, if you have not love, you gain nothing.

There are many places in scripture where we can learn about love. As we do so, we can pray for the grace to have a heart that is open and compassionate.

FOLLOWING CHRIST

2010-06-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

The readings for this Sunday are about following. In the first reading Elisha was called to follow Elijah, and in the gospel Jesus called others to follow him. In both readings, those called said they wanted to do something first, then they would follow.

Their response is typical of human nature. Do we really want to follow Christ? Think of your own call. Did you respond with an enthusiastic yes? Were you hesitant?

Following Christ is a radical response to His call. It will not always be easy. Some days we will be broken. However, the love of Christ will lift us up, keep us going and give us whatever grace we need to continue following Him.

Over the years, sisters have shared their call story with me. It is wonderful to listen to how each person knew she was being called to religious life. I enjoy sharing my own call story. It is very different from most of the sisters as I entered community later in life.

By the way, everyone is called to follow Christ. Priests and religious do so in one way. Married couples and single men and women do so in another way. In whatever way you are called to follow Christ, do so with focus, love, and generosity.

PERSEVERANCE

2010-06-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

I read an interesting article this morning. The author talked about how people do not persevere in the commitments they make. He focused on marriage, religious vows, and commitment of priests. He made his readers aware of how easy it is for people to give up on to what they vow or commit. Married couples easily choose divorce or annulment rather than going to a marriage counselor or first trying to work things out. Priests and religious leave their communites or the priesthood.

The author stated that people need to quit questioning their choice of commitment or vows. Once the choice is made, don't look back instead persevere ahead. When I entered the noviate, I remember some of the sisters saying to me, "Grace and perseverance." At first I did not understand, however, it soon became clear what they meant. As I struggled through some times during my formation years, it was perseverance that kept me choosing the process. It is perseverance that continues to get me through days when I am not at my best. God gives me the grace I need each time I say, "Yes."

Many of you have seen the article in the Erie Times these past three weeks focusing on religious life. By choosing to live this life, we choose to love differently. Our love is not given to one person, but poured out all those to whom we minister. For us SSJ's we move "always toward profound love of God and neighbor without distinction."

Another point I want to make is that none of us are doing good works in isolation. No matter what ministry we are in, we have the support of the whole community. That makes a difference. We have each other to share our lives and our ministries with.

I don't look back and wonder if I have done the right thing. Instead I look to today to be the best I can, and I look to the future to how I can live this life more fully.

End of School

2010-06-20T10:36:00.000-07:00

Like the students in my class, I am grateful for summer vacation. I got my classroom closed up last Friday and have been working at spring cleaning and taking a little break. It is good that students and teachers have a chance to get away from the usual routine of a school schedule to no routine. I look forward to working in my office, visiting my family, taking time to relax, going to the beach, and going on retreat.

Summer is my favorite season. I enjoy the sunshine and walking outdoors. Seeing the green grass and leaves on the trees helps me forget the white mounds of snow. I especially like sitting on the patio and reading. I enjoy watching the beautiful birds at my feeders.

What is your favorite season and why?

Celebrate!

2010-05-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I'm Back! Sorry I have not posted for a while, but sometimes life just happens.

I am so happy to be a Sister of Saint Joseph. Yesterday we celebrated 150 years in the Diocese of Erie. We marked the occasion, with our associates, with a beautiful liturgy at St. Peter's Cathedral. Our bishop, Donald Trautman, talked about the group of apostles in the upper room at Pentecost and the little group of sisters who first came to the diocese. The procession, the liturgical dancers, the choir and music was more than we could have asked for. Many friends and relatives filled the Cathedral to celebrate with us. Then, we all went to the Bayfront Convention Center for a reception. I fell asleep last night recalling all that went on during the celebration. There was so much joy!

Four sisters came from St. Louis to Corsica, PA to open a school for girls called St. Anne's Academy. Mother Agnes Spencer, a woman of spirit, courage, and vision led the little group. Today, and throughout the last 150 years, the Sisters of Saint Joseph continue to serve the "dear neighbor without distinction" with spirit, courage, and vision.

If you have been thinking about a vocation to religious life, contact me at s.lfusco@ssjerie.org. I will be glad to talk with you. God's generosity will not be outdone.

How Do I Love Thee?

2010-04-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

I have been reflecting on the Gospel from John 21 in today's liturgy since my prayer group met last Tuesday evening. It is about Jesus asking Peter three times, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" I wonder how Peter felt during this questioning. Surely, it must have been difficult for him to face Jesus. Jesus already knew that Peter truly did love him. I think perhaps he wanted Peter to realize or know it more deeply. Peter denied Jesus, however, he could still love him and serve him.

We, too, need to remember how merciful God is. As human beings we sin, we do stupid things, and we are sorry for failing in our love for God and others. It does not mean we love God less. It does mean that we need to learn from our mistakes and failings and turn to God for help, not turn away from God. We can search through prayer, reflection, and meditation to find that place in ourselves where we know how much we love Christ. It is in us!

Nine years ago, before I made my profession of vows, I made a 30-day Ignation Retreat based on the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. It is a wonderful process of praying and reflecting on the Pascal Mystery and much more.

It had some difficult moments when I was faced with my own sinfulness and that of the world. Later in the retreat when I was given this passage from John 21, my reflection led me to watch as Jesus talked to each disciple before coming to me and asking, "Linda, do you love me?" I would have to go back to my journal from that year to recall my response, however, what I do remember is that because of my openness to all that God was desiring to give me that by the end of the retreat I was proclaiming from Elizabeth Barrett Browning's Sonnet, "I love thee to the breadth and depth and height my soul can reach when feeling out of sight."

It would be wonderful if you and I, and married couples could always feel this kind of love for Christ or a spouse. Human as we are, we know we can't always walk on Cloud Nine. Maybe, if we take the time, we can find that place in each of us where we know that love once again. Ignatius called it heartfelt knowledge of Christ's presence and love, and I like to add that it is heartfelt knowledge of our love for Christ.

FASTING TO FEASTING

2010-04-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

As I read the readings of the resurrection appearances this past week, I felt full of joy and resurrection within my own being. I was thinking how wonderful this is after weeks of fasting during Lent. There is so much to feast on.

First of all I am aware of how we can feast on God's love. We have just celebrated that God gave us Christ, his only Son so that we can be saved. We can feast that God is merciful, forgiving, and kind. Feast on all the good things that God has given you, such as, family, friends, community, life, love.

We have had some beautiful weather during these past two weeks. We have been feasting on the blue skies and sunshine, green grass, trees budding. The yellow forsythia is always a favorite of mine. I have been feasting on the sight of the different finches at my bird feeders. The geese are honking, the turkeys are gobbling, and the squirrels are playing. Spring is here!

Feast on who you are, on all that God has called you to be. God has given you so much to feast on. Everyday you can find a feast! Just open your eyes and your hearts.

RESURRECTION

2010-04-06T06:42:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter. I was listening to many things during the Tridduum to plan what to post. The idea actually came to me this morning. At each liturgy, we proclaim a Memorial Acclamation. The one that seems to be used most frequently is, "Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again." Here is my reflection about this.

"Christ has died." We have just experienced the passion and death of Jesus on Good Friday. We have heard this many times. Jesus was put to death by crucifixion by the Jewish and Roman leaders of his time. For those of us who believe in Jesus as the Son of God, we also believe that death is not final. As St. Paul says in the Epistle read at the Easter Vigil, Christ's death was death to sin once and for all and that His life is life for God. In your life, how do you put consider yourselves dead to sin and alive for God in Christ Jesus?

"Christ is risen." Alleluia! I love when we get to sing it after so many weeks of Lent. Once again we heard the Easter story and we will continue to hear other accounts from the scriptures of Jesus' appearances during these next few days. Jesus has risen from the dead and, as St. Paul tells us, He will never die again. Death has no more power over him! Have there been times in your own life, when you have experienced resurrection and felt alive again? Perhaps you have experienced resurrection after a physical or mental illness, or have overcome some other difficulty in your life. Reflect on it. Recall the resurrection moment and give praise and thanks to God.

"Christ will come again." We believe that Christ will come again at the end of the world. He promised his disciples that he will be with us always. We wait in joyful hope. We do not have to wait until the end of the world. Christ comes to us everyday. He is present with us through his word in scripture. Christ comes into our hearts each day when we receive Holy Communion. He is present in each person we meet. I am aware of Christ's presence during times of reflection, or sometimes in a song. What are ways that Christ comes to you?

Be open to Christ's presence in your life. Look for signs of resurrection all around you. Blessings to all of you during this Easter season.

Lost and Found

2010-03-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

There is so much material to reflect on in the parable of the Prodigal Son from yesterday's gospel. It is one of my favorite readings during Lent. The younger son was lost when he received his share of his father's inheritance and spent all of it on women, gambling, drinking. Eventually, he ran out of money, worked feeding pigs, and was hungry. You know the rest of the story of how he was welcomed back and forgiven by his father and not welcomed by his older brother.

We too can get lost in the same ways as this young man did. However, there are other ways of getting lost. These are just some brief thoughts I had.

We can get lost in our emotions. Depression causes us to turn inward and shut others out. We are lost to those who love us and care about us. We can lose ourselves by not remembering or caring who we are and the wonderful gifts we possess. Sometimes we may choose to not help ourselves by not seeking help. Yet we can be found! It might mean talking to a therapist and allowing ourselves to accept love from family and friends.

We can be lost spiritually. Many time when things don't go our way, prayers are not answered quickly enough, death of a loved one, or some other tragedy, we blame God. When this happens we might stop praying or attending the sacraments. We might lose faith in God. Yet we can be found! It can be as simple as uttering, "God help me for I cannot help myself". I believe that the moment we do turn to God in our need, God takes over. Slowly the Spirit works in us to lead us back to life, love, and relationship with God. Talking to a priest or spiritual director can guide us in prayer and reflection to encourage and deepen our desire to be whole and holy once again.

In other ways, we can be lost in our stubbornness, meanness, selfishness, lack of respect for others, or like the older brother in the parable, refusing to forgive someone. Our egos can block our paths. These characteristics can keep us bound and unfree. They do not allow us to be open to others ideas or needs. They do not allow us to be in right relationship with God and others. Yet we can be found! By recognizing these things in us, we can change if we want to. We can pray for the graces to help us become and practice kindness, patience, sharing, respectful, merciful.

"Be still and know that I am God". Lent is a great time for reconciliation. Take advantage of the many opportunities during this season to attend the Sacrament. Take some quiet time this week to imagine yourself walking straight into the loving arms of God. Let God hold you close to his heart. Allow yourself to be forgiven and changed where you need it.

TWO THOUGHTS

2010-03-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

My first is that yesterday our congregation listened to a speaker on the vow of Celibacy. Much of it was about being relational. As I continue to reflect on what I heard, not only are we as women religious called to relatedness, but so are those who are married or single, young or old. Our speaker reminded us that no one can live in isolation.

My second thought is about the parable of the fig tree in the Gospel today. Like the gardener who wanted to give the fig tree another year to try to bear fruit, so I think God is like that with us. God continues over and over again to give us another chance to be who God knows we are capable of being. God gifts us over and over again with all that we need to do what God calls us to do. God forgives us over and over again to get our act together and return to God's loving embrace. If God nurtures us so carefully and gently, shouldn't we do the same for each other? Isn't it all about being relational?

LISTENING

2010-02-28T12:04:00.000-08:00

Today's Gospel tells about the Transfiguration of Jesus while he was on the mountain with three of his disciples. While Jesus was conversing with Moses and Elijah, the disciples heard a voice from heaven saying, "This is my chosen Son, listen to him".

Here we are beginning the second week of Lent. How are you doing with the ways in which you planned to observe Lent this year? Listening better in prayer is one thing I am trying to do this year. First of all it takes quiet and time. The quiet is easy. For me it is making the time that is a little more difficult. However, I'm working on it. Listening takes patience, faith, and an open heart. Sometimes, God doesn't speak as quickly I would like. I know the importance of waiting and staying focused in prayer. My spiritual director has said that whenever I am ready to give up, give a little more time and see what happens. Sometimes it is in those last few minutes, that I hear what I have been waiting for. I shared with my prayer group that a couple of years ago when I was on retreat, I was telling the director all the things I prayed and said to God. She asked me what his response was. I said I did not listen. I spent the whole retreat sitting still and listening.

Henry Nouwen says that when we are anxious, tense, or worried our anxiety does not allow us any space to listen. We cannot receive the voice of God. We need to create the space to listen so that we can hear the voice of God call us, "beloved". I hope you can make the time to sit still during this Lenten season to listen. I will continue to work at making time. Let us keep each other in prayer.

Oh, by the way, March 1st is my eighteenth anniversary in community. I am excited by that. Please pray a prayer of gratitude to God for calling me to this vocation. Thanks.

Congregational Retreat

2010-02-22T15:36:00.000-08:00

I just realized that I did not blog last week! I do not have access to a computer at my mother's home, so it never occurred to me. I was at my home parish, St. Joseph, in Sharon, PA last weekend for the kick-off of their celebrating the 150th year of the parish. I gave a brief talk on some of the virtues of Saint Joseph and how they relate to us as Sisters of Saint Joseph.

This past weekend, our congregation participated in a Graced History Retreat. We began Friday evening reflecting on our personal light history. Our communal light history, our personal and communal shadow history were the areas we spent time with on Saturday. Then on Sunday we reflected on our personal and communal hope. Different sisters gave a reflection for each of the different areas. After each one, there was time for quiet reflection, then sharing in small groups. The beautiful prayers that began each session and our Sunday liturgy added to the sacredness of the retreat.

We are truly blessed to have occasions like these when we come together as a community to pray, reflect, and share. We share our gifts and talents, and recognize those of others. It is a time to hold one another in prayer and receive the graces God desires for each of us. It was a wonderful opportunity to forget the ordinary, hectic schedules, in which we are often involved, to be quiet. I was so aware of the respect for one another by everyone participating in staying as quiet as each person was able. I am truly grateful to have had this opportunity, and I am also grateful and happy to belong to this congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania.

World Day for Consecrated Life

2010-02-07T14:41:00.000-08:00

This Sunday's readings focused on call, especially the call of Peter in the Gospel. Peter did not know what he was getting into at first. He stumbled along and said some foolish things. Yet, he was called and chosen to lead the disciples and became a wonderful example for all of us who struggle to do and say the right thing. At a homily I heard today, the priest said that whenever God calls he also blesses. Also, at my prayer group on Tuesday, the reflection stated that God calls the unqualified and qualifies those he calls.

God calls each of us differently. My call story is very different from other call stories that I have heard throughout the years. I have always found it interesting to hear how another sister felt called to religious life.

The call to live the Consecrated Life is one of the vocations that both women and men respond to by living the evangelical vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They serve in parishes, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, social agencies, missions, and anywhere else there is a need. They do what they do for the love of God and others. Each community of men and women have their own charism or uniqueness that give them their sense of mission and purpose for existing.

Today is World Day for Consecrated Life. Pray for these men and women. Pray also for an increase in vocations to religious life.

If you have been thinking of a religious vocation, or have questions you would like to ask, e-mail me at s.lfusco@ssjerie.org.

Catholic Schools Week

2010-01-31T15:25:00.001-08:00

Throughout the country Catholic Schools Week began today. The theme this year is "Catholic Schools: Dividends for Life". It focuses on the dividends of Faith, Knowledge, Discipline, and Morals.

At Blessed Sacrament School in Erie, where I teach, we began with a special liturgy this morning that included participation from students in each grade level. Our student choir and cantors led the singing. After liturgy, everyone went to the cafeteria for donuts and coffee, then they were invited to tour the school during the open house. Among the visitors to my classroom were alumni whose children will begin school next fall. It was wonderful to hear them recall their times as students. Most exciting for me was hearing them ask about our sisters whom they remember as their teachers and principals. These alumni remember their school days in a positive light.
I am a product of public school education, so I do not have the background or memories of the alumni I met today. I wonder if they realized then, as they do now, the value of their Catholic Education. I think it is great that they want the same experiences for their children.
What was your Catholic School Education Like? What do you treasure and hold in your heart of those memories?

Connections

2010-01-24T10:58:00.001-08:00

One of our sisters gave me this quote today, "Connect with God first so you can connect with others." Prayer is an important part in the lives of women religious. Each sister spends time in quiet prayer, or reflection, or contemplation, or meditation, as well as communal prayer. This quiet time alone with God is what strengthens, consoles, empowers, and brings joy to go out and minister to others. This connecting with God first helps each sister to be and do what God desires of her in her ministry.

My quiet time is Sunday morning. With school and other commitments, I can easily fall asleep if I try to sit still on weekday evenings. Prayer, reflection, journaling, spiritual reading, and listening to spiritual music gifts me with the graces I need to be a good educator, a good Sister of Saint Joseph, a good member of my community, a good member of my family, and a good friend. I know without a doubt the importance of prayer in my life. I need to connect with God first at the beginning of the week to bring Christ to others. This connection with God reminds me who I am and why I do what I do.

How about you? Share with me, if you will, about your quiet time. Have a great week!

You Are Loved!

2010-01-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

I can guess that probably everyone has had a day (or more) when they are not feeling good about themselves. There are numerous things that can go wrong that lower our self-esteem. The first reading from Sunday's liturgy can help us. No matter how we see ourselves, God sees us differently.

The reading from Isaiah 62:1-5 reminds us we are assured of God's love. God always wants to give us what is good and claim us just as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride. God makes us feel special by holding us as a "royal diadem". We are God's "Delight" no matter how we see ourselves. Allowing ourselves to hear these words can help us to see more of what God sees in us. God is passionate in God's love for us. I think that God wants us to know this so that we can become more than we ever believed possible.

So, the next time you are having one of those days take time to sit, pray, and reflect with this passage from Isaiah. Just as Zion and Jerusalem were renewed and restored, may God do the same in you.

Winter Grace

2010-01-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

I have survived a week of snow! Winter is not my favorite season of the year. Every day I scraped the ice off my windows, brushed the snow off the car each morning and after school, and I drove to and from school on sometimes slippery roads. One of our drivers kindly helped me shovel my car out one morning. Finally, we have had two days with no snow and ice. I don't know about you, but I needed a break.

The sunshine and crisp air was energizing on Saturday and I delighted in the blue skies. On Sunday as I drove down I79, I was in awe by the beauty of the frozen snow on the trees down by Edinboro. I could not help but be reminded of the "Grandeur of God" by Gerard Manley Hopkins. How could the snow that I dread each day during winter be so beautiful? Only in God and by His grace can I see the glorious winter scene from my car window. I am grateful for moments like these when I can still feel alive in the midst of winter.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T12:18:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a joyous celebration of Christmas. Mine was just as I said it would be in my last posting.
At our Community Living Center, where I live with about fifty other sisters, we had an evening prayer service for New Years’ Eve. During this prayer we were asked to pray for the grace we need this year. I’m still trying to narrow it down as I think I need a lot of graces. Perhaps I will tell God what they are, and ask God to give me the one I need the most.
After the prayer service, we had a New Years’ Eve party with food and drinks, the annual Word Find (with a word missing), and we watched the movie, "Julie and Julia". At 11:00 I went back to our Gathering Space, and with six other sisters stayed up to watch the annual celebration in New York City when the ball goes down as the crowds and we count down the seconds until midnight.
In between the first party and the later party I had gone back to my room. One of my annual traditions is to sit and reflect on the past year. I made a list of the blessings I had received in 2009. Wow! After listing them, I thought how fortunate I am to be loved so much by God. I gave thanks and I felt at peace. I like this tradition. I am sure some of you do something similar to end one year and begin another.
It has been nice to be out of school for a couple of weeks. In three more days, life will go back to normal. I will go back to school, exercising at the cardiac center, and all the other routine activities that are part of my life.
The New Year is only beginning. There is still time to reflect on the blessings you have been given. May God bless all of you abundantly in 2010.

Christmas, Family, and Traditions

2009-12-23T10:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas is still a magical time of year for me. While I have done my best at keeping Advent as prayerful as I can, I still needed to do some shopping and planning for the holidays. As I plan to visit my mother and the rest of my family, I look forward to the traditions and sometimes chaos that will take place.
As I am the member of my family who lives the furthest away, I am the one that has to do the packing and driving to get to Farrell, PA. However, once I get there, the magic begins. When I walk into my mother's home, there will be the familiar smell of cookies baking, the Christmas decorations around the living room, and my mother happy to see me.
Because our family is large and Mom's house is too small, we no longer have the holidays there, but go to one of my brothers' or sisters' homes. My brother, Vince, now has the traditional Christmas Eve celebration at his home. Mom and I will go there early in the afternoon so that she and my sister-in-law, Laura, can begin cooking. Our tradition is eating different kinds of fish which include smelts, squid, baccala, some type of filet, along with linguini and clam sauce. The rest of the family, as well as some friends, will come later in the afternoon. It is a wonderful time to catch up with each other. For me part of the magic is being with my neices and nephews, some who are adults, some who are teenagers, and some little ones. Talking with them, playing with them, and just being with them is so special.
When Mom and I get back to her house, we rest so that we can be ready to attend Midnight Mass. Going to mass at Saint Joseph in Sharon, PA is another homecoming where traditions continue. About fifteen minutes before mass, there is a sing-a-long. It is wonderful to see the familiar faces of the parishioners I remember. During Communion, we always sing, "Night of Silence/Silent Night". It is such a joyous time celebrating that Jesus, whose birth we remember, is still with us today.
The magic continues on Christmas Day when Mom and I, and the rest of the family, will gather at one of my sisters' homes for dinner. Eating, exchanging gifts, playing cards, sitting around talking, and playing other games continues the celebration.
Tradition and family at Christmas time is worth the packing and traveling I have to do. Since it is already after 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon the 23rd of December, I need to get going so I can finish packing.
May God gift you with many blessings this Christmas. I hope you enjoy your family and the traditions that you hold dear. Merry Christmas everybody!

2009-12-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

Gaudete Sunday. The readings talk about rejoicing. "Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! (Phil 4) We can get so overwhelmed by the bad things we hear in the news, or the things in our own lives. Yet, there is so much to rejoice about. We do not have to look for exciting, big, or miraculous events to rejoice about. We can rejoice even in the simple, everyday miracles in our lives. For example: a baby's first seps; a smile; a phone call from a loved one far away; someone to help you when you lock yourself out of the house; or sometimes just a moment to be quiet.
At our school's Christmas Fair last Friday, one of my fourth grade students bought a ceramic plate. He found all his classmates and had them sign it. Then, he gave it to me. I was so touched his gift! I rejoiced and gave thanks to God for the ministry of teaching and for my students.
I could go on and on with examples and reasons for rejoicing, but I think you can come up with a few of your own. Look for the small miracles in your life this week, and rejoice in the Lord.

Hope and Promise

2009-12-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

Many years ago, my spiritual director told me that Advent is the season of promise and hope. I always look forward to this time in the liturgical year. It calls me to quiet down in the midst of all the craziness of getting ready to celebrate Christmas. I am especially eager to read and listen to the readings from the prophets that tell us of the hope and promise of the Savior to come.

This year, the focus on hope has particularly been a part of my prayer and reflection. In October, my friend’s husband committed suicide. I cannot help wonder why he had no hope for his life. Why could he not turn to God in his suffering?

Like many others in this world, I, too, have experienced personal struggle. I know that the hope and promise of God in scripture gave me, and continues to give me, the grace and courage to go on. It is my hope in the love and salvation that Christ brings that makes me want to get out of bed each morning. I have something to live for.

This evening we had an anointing service at our Community Living Center. During the anointing we sang “Be Not Afraid.” When we got to the last line of the first verse, “Know that I am with you through it all,”, I was reminded that no matter how terrible or fearful any situation in life is, I will never be alone or abandoned by God.

Hope is the gift that allows us to trust in God and God’s promises. It requires openness and living with ambiguity. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God is always doing something new in our lives.

In this season of Advent, open the ears of your heart to listen to the hope and promise that God desires for you. In the messiness of life, remember that God is with you through it all. Take time to reflect on where you find your Advent hope and remember when your trust in God bore fruit in your life.

Blessings to all of you during this holy season. Hold on to Hope!