All Faiths United

  “No justice, no peace” we hear from demonstrators in street marches.   They are voicing a fundamental truth.   Without justice, there may appear to be a form of peace, but it is fake, superficial.   Underneath the smiles, there is a simmering anger fed by smashed dreams and barriers to equality. Somewhat like the times when Jesus was born into a Palestine under the heel of Roman oppression.   Some historians have called that a time of peace, but this fake “Pax Romano” was giving birth to freedom fighters such as Barabbas, whose path would cross that of Jesus 33 years later. In his latest encyclical, Pope Francis sheds light on similar current situations by reminding us that we are all brothers and sisters. He challenges us to ponder how we will behave when we finally emerge from COVID-governed restrictions. Will some countries continue to grab instead of sharing? Will we continue to destroy our natural world? Will some people continue to put “I” before “we?”...

  We speak truth to power by our lives, not only in words but also in actions. Think of:   +Franz Jagerstatter, a German, who refused to serve in Hitler’s army and paid for this with his life.   +Moses who was reluctant to carry God’s message to mighty Pharaoh: “Let my people go!” After Moses had moved from the life of nobility to that of a shepherd, he had hesitated before God’s charge by protesting, “But who am I?” And God had reassured him, “I will be with you.” (Exodus 3: 11-12) It is not only what you say, but how you say it!   Think of Jesus’ multiple interrogations by Pilate and the Sanhedrin about His being a king, the Messiah. He turned their words back on them: “It is you who say I am a king.” (John 18:37) Yes, the world’s powerful do have power, and we are really powerless in their sight.   But organized people have power and dignity as well and can stand on it!   Think of Gandhi in the face of British occupiers. They frequently impriso...

Downside Up Together Each and every day, We are invited to stand downside up, reaching For the promise of new life grounded in faith like …Seed planted in rich soil …Bounty based in bonding self to self …Grace grown out of giving away …Blessing blooming in the merciful dregs of justice …New life lifted up, rising out of dark, unguarded tomb Each and every day, We are amazed by …The story of God’s transforming power throughout the universe We see the earth’s creative energies …In elements of nature and genes of ancestry We re-tell the history of human mind and skill …Turned toward art, ritual, story and communal fire We hear the upending words of Jesus …In parable, sermon, and spirit We witness … The ever-new transfiguration of the promise of life Each and every day We are called to walk … A narrow road, a common way We are sent forth to grow holy family …Faithful in word and ever-forgiving heart We are gathered to form community...

Reflection on Choices and Transitions Sr. Ann Hayden, MM April 19, 2020 “Let us help one another move forward.” In this time of COVID-19, as we see images of a shared human struggle for life, we have begun to feel particularly close to peoples near and far of all faiths, diverse cultures, and different political leanings.   We have adjusted, in spite of our fear, and anxiety for   loved ones in family and among friends, to our efforts to invent new ways to spend time to enrich our relationships with fun, art, music, reflection, poetry, and prayer. In recent holy days of mutual human need, we have witnessed an immense outpouring of love and care for our neighbors; and for the heroes that are saving lives, providing food, safety, needed services, and essential travel.   We are filled with gratefulness and creativity in simple service to family, students, and strangers alike.   Even in this time of extreme vulnerability, we have certainly experienced...