A quote today from Frances Warde, our American foundress:
My God, I will look to you confidently for grace.
The news today: fog a cause for deaths of two truck drivers, death of Sister, delays at airports due to fog, deadlines loom for... "My God,I look confidently to you for grace." I look to you for the strength to live this day as you would want me to live it. I look to you in my time of need to guide me in the right words to say and the right actions to take.
As I reflect on the life of Frances Warde, She had need to pray this simple prayer often. She was a woman who did much, going where no religious had gone before. She was bold: she was a woman of foresight. In her day she established around 100 foundations ans missions. what a woman- a pioneer woman, a woman builder. I'm sure it was not easy at times to know if what she were doing was what God wanted. Yet she looked to God with confidence.
We, too can have that confidence if we but place our day, in God's hands. What do you need today to place in God's hands?
Today we celebrate the foundation of the Sisters of Mercy to Pittsburgh from Carlow, Ireland, the first foundation in the United States in 1843!
www.sistersofmercy.org
Friday, December 21, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
A Cause for Wonder
A quote from Catherine:
Preserve union and peace. Do this and your happiness will be so
great as to cause you to wonder.
I was reflecting the other day about how gentle our Sister Cecelia is. She is a great example of a gentlewoman. Her simplicity and truly serene demeanor are inspiring. Her health is good, but her mind is not. She remembers but for a moment, yet she is always gracious and pleasant. She is an embodiment of happiness and wonder.
As I recall her in earlier years, she always was gracious. I don't know how she was in her ministry, but I am assuming she was much the same. I'm sure the high school students took advantage of her, but somehow she came across as a gracious woman.
I was also reflecting about the women in my house. There are 4 of us, all different temperaments and ministries. All of us work with people in a daily and somewhat close relationship. One is in health care, one works in alternative health, I as a vocation minister and the fourth with those with disabilities.
When we sit down to discuss matters that need to be taken care of, whether scheduling events, working out details for some project or to listening to the needs of one of us, we do it out of union and peace. That does not mean we don't have differences of opinion, we do. But somehow we work out the way that works best for the moment.
When Catherine was speaking, she was giving a vital piece of wisdom. Union and peace. Let no strife come between you. If there is peace in the house-real peace, then there is also peace in the hearts of those who live there. It brings about such happiness that others will notice.
Now I'm not saying we are a perfect community. We have so much yet to learn. But we do have some strong gifts and blessings that help us to be about life we lead. Some of us create prayer well, some of us create food well. Some of us are great at the yard work and others at the housework. Some of us connect with what's going on better than others. Some of us have a lot of energy and some of us don't. If we use the strengths we have and acknowledge them aloud, we can build an even better community.
I challenge each of you this Advent and Christmas season, to take time to share with a few others what you see as their gifts. Strengthen your bonds by expressing what you already have and grow from there. Then you, too, will have so much happiness that it will cause you to wonder.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Preserve union and peace. Do this and your happiness will be so
great as to cause you to wonder.
I was reflecting the other day about how gentle our Sister Cecelia is. She is a great example of a gentlewoman. Her simplicity and truly serene demeanor are inspiring. Her health is good, but her mind is not. She remembers but for a moment, yet she is always gracious and pleasant. She is an embodiment of happiness and wonder.
As I recall her in earlier years, she always was gracious. I don't know how she was in her ministry, but I am assuming she was much the same. I'm sure the high school students took advantage of her, but somehow she came across as a gracious woman.
I was also reflecting about the women in my house. There are 4 of us, all different temperaments and ministries. All of us work with people in a daily and somewhat close relationship. One is in health care, one works in alternative health, I as a vocation minister and the fourth with those with disabilities.
When we sit down to discuss matters that need to be taken care of, whether scheduling events, working out details for some project or to listening to the needs of one of us, we do it out of union and peace. That does not mean we don't have differences of opinion, we do. But somehow we work out the way that works best for the moment.
When Catherine was speaking, she was giving a vital piece of wisdom. Union and peace. Let no strife come between you. If there is peace in the house-real peace, then there is also peace in the hearts of those who live there. It brings about such happiness that others will notice.
Now I'm not saying we are a perfect community. We have so much yet to learn. But we do have some strong gifts and blessings that help us to be about life we lead. Some of us create prayer well, some of us create food well. Some of us are great at the yard work and others at the housework. Some of us connect with what's going on better than others. Some of us have a lot of energy and some of us don't. If we use the strengths we have and acknowledge them aloud, we can build an even better community.
I challenge each of you this Advent and Christmas season, to take time to share with a few others what you see as their gifts. Strengthen your bonds by expressing what you already have and grow from there. Then you, too, will have so much happiness that it will cause you to wonder.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Thursday, December 13, 2007
After Darkness and Winter
Today's quote comes from Sr.M. Concillia Moran:
It is my hope and prayer that after the period of darkness
and winter has accomplished its purpose,
we shall see the bright promise of another spring...
It's day two after an ice storm that blanketed much of the Midwest. The sun is out and the ice coating the trees sparkle as diamonds. Each breeze brings more radiant bursts as well as showers of ice to the ground below. It is as if the trees were tinselled for the coming Christmas Day!
As lovely as it looks outside, it will soon be dark and the night will fall, as will the temperatures! It can be a cold night for travelers and animals as winter begins to tighten up its hold on the world in which I live.
This quote for Sr. Concillia though, is filled with hope. The winter does have its purpose as do all seasons. Each has it brightness and each it's darkness. I guess it depends on your attitude. What do you see? The cold and dark of winter or the radiant skies of a clear cold day? The greening of spring or the March winds and the sodden rains? The hot, humid summer or the wonderful growing sunshine? The dying of plants or the brilliant hues of fall?
As we continue during this Advent time of waiting, of darker days and longer nights, what is being stirred in you waiting for the promise of spring?
www.sistersofmercy.org
It is my hope and prayer that after the period of darkness
and winter has accomplished its purpose,
we shall see the bright promise of another spring...
It's day two after an ice storm that blanketed much of the Midwest. The sun is out and the ice coating the trees sparkle as diamonds. Each breeze brings more radiant bursts as well as showers of ice to the ground below. It is as if the trees were tinselled for the coming Christmas Day!
As lovely as it looks outside, it will soon be dark and the night will fall, as will the temperatures! It can be a cold night for travelers and animals as winter begins to tighten up its hold on the world in which I live.
This quote for Sr. Concillia though, is filled with hope. The winter does have its purpose as do all seasons. Each has it brightness and each it's darkness. I guess it depends on your attitude. What do you see? The cold and dark of winter or the radiant skies of a clear cold day? The greening of spring or the March winds and the sodden rains? The hot, humid summer or the wonderful growing sunshine? The dying of plants or the brilliant hues of fall?
As we continue during this Advent time of waiting, of darker days and longer nights, what is being stirred in you waiting for the promise of spring?
www.sistersofmercy.org
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Foundation Day
Today is Foundation Day, the day the Sisters of Mercy remember our beginnings. This quote from Catherine is so appropriate for this day:
My God I am yours for time and eternity.
We know this line as the first line of Catherine's Suscipe, a prayer of commitment and giving of oneself to God totally.
Today all over the world this prayer will be said and sung. It is in the hearts of all Sisters of Mercy and hopefully in your heart, too. "My God, I am yours for time and eternity..."
May this day be a day you commit yourself to God, totally.
It is also the feast of our Lady of Guadalupe. Millions of men women and children honor Mary as the patron of the poor and oppressed. So fitting these two feast are today since they fit together so well. Catherine's love for the poor and Mary's appearance to the poor native, Juan Diego in Mexico bridging the continents.
Today may you give yourself entirely to the Lord and serve God through an action to alleviate the needs of the poor in some way.
www.sistersofmercy.org
My God I am yours for time and eternity.
We know this line as the first line of Catherine's Suscipe, a prayer of commitment and giving of oneself to God totally.
Today all over the world this prayer will be said and sung. It is in the hearts of all Sisters of Mercy and hopefully in your heart, too. "My God, I am yours for time and eternity..."
May this day be a day you commit yourself to God, totally.
It is also the feast of our Lady of Guadalupe. Millions of men women and children honor Mary as the patron of the poor and oppressed. So fitting these two feast are today since they fit together so well. Catherine's love for the poor and Mary's appearance to the poor native, Juan Diego in Mexico bridging the continents.
Today may you give yourself entirely to the Lord and serve God through an action to alleviate the needs of the poor in some way.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
The Poor and Little Children
A quote from Sr. M. Clare Moore-a contemporary of Catherine's
Catherine "loved and sought to do good to all,
but the poor and the little children were her favorites."
The holiday season is said to be for children. The wonders of Christmas,the gifts, the stories,the people, the celebrations, are a wonder and amazement for them. Unfortunately there will be children who will not have that experience this year. The extra kindness to the children, a hallmark of Catherine should be ours this season.
Catherine took care of several children, adopting them and raising them even as she was building the house of Mercy and late as a Sister. She had a great fondness for children and a concern, especially for the poor children. She opened schools for them. She learned the latest techniques for teaching large groups going to France to study the latest.
Today we remember the children. What could I do today for a child? Do I have children of my own? Maybe today would be a good day to bake cookies, read a story, play a game. Today could be the day to donate clothes or ask my children to clean out their toy boxes of toys they no longer play with to donate so that the children who are poor might have something for Christmas. Maybe today I write a letter to my children (or even my younger brothers and sisters) to let them know how much they mean to me. Make this day count for someone!
www.sistersofmercy.org
Catherine "loved and sought to do good to all,
but the poor and the little children were her favorites."
The holiday season is said to be for children. The wonders of Christmas,the gifts, the stories,the people, the celebrations, are a wonder and amazement for them. Unfortunately there will be children who will not have that experience this year. The extra kindness to the children, a hallmark of Catherine should be ours this season.
Catherine took care of several children, adopting them and raising them even as she was building the house of Mercy and late as a Sister. She had a great fondness for children and a concern, especially for the poor children. She opened schools for them. She learned the latest techniques for teaching large groups going to France to study the latest.
Today we remember the children. What could I do today for a child? Do I have children of my own? Maybe today would be a good day to bake cookies, read a story, play a game. Today could be the day to donate clothes or ask my children to clean out their toy boxes of toys they no longer play with to donate so that the children who are poor might have something for Christmas. Maybe today I write a letter to my children (or even my younger brothers and sisters) to let them know how much they mean to me. Make this day count for someone!
www.sistersofmercy.org
Monday, December 10, 2007
Charisma of Catherine
A quote today about Catherine:
The charisma of Catherine is alive and vital in the lives of all
who share our commitment.
M. Christopher O'Rourke
As we approach Foundation Day, this quote is a reminder that the vowed Sisters are not the only ones who have an investment in the life of Catherine McAuley. The Associates, the Companions, the Volunteer Corp and our sponsored ministries (both formal or long-time) all share in the charisma of Catherine McAuley and have a stake in promoting her vision and works. Catherine's spirit is alive and well!
I attended our College Mass last night. One of the deliberate pieces of every Mass is to bring the Sisters of Mercy into the hearts and minds of the students. Last night the Sisters provided the treats after Mass. Special mention was made of it at the announcement time and the Sisters in the Assembly were named.
This can also be seen with a Mercy cross in every classroom, with quotes found on the t-shirts for the events of the service learning projects. Catherine makes it all around town in those shirts!
How can you renew your passion for Catherine McAuley and her works? When was the last time you picked up a book about her, read her letters, or a reflection about her or did something to reach out to Mercy Sisters in other regions or parts of the world? With Foundation Day coming so soon, now would be a good time to do so.
www.sistersofmercy.org
The charisma of Catherine is alive and vital in the lives of all
who share our commitment.
M. Christopher O'Rourke
As we approach Foundation Day, this quote is a reminder that the vowed Sisters are not the only ones who have an investment in the life of Catherine McAuley. The Associates, the Companions, the Volunteer Corp and our sponsored ministries (both formal or long-time) all share in the charisma of Catherine McAuley and have a stake in promoting her vision and works. Catherine's spirit is alive and well!
I attended our College Mass last night. One of the deliberate pieces of every Mass is to bring the Sisters of Mercy into the hearts and minds of the students. Last night the Sisters provided the treats after Mass. Special mention was made of it at the announcement time and the Sisters in the Assembly were named.
This can also be seen with a Mercy cross in every classroom, with quotes found on the t-shirts for the events of the service learning projects. Catherine makes it all around town in those shirts!
How can you renew your passion for Catherine McAuley and her works? When was the last time you picked up a book about her, read her letters, or a reflection about her or did something to reach out to Mercy Sisters in other regions or parts of the world? With Foundation Day coming so soon, now would be a good time to do so.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Friday, December 7, 2007
Blessings of Unity
A quote from Catherine:
The blessing of unity still dwells among us...
this is the true spirit of Mercy flowing on us...
Last night I was on a conference call dealing with the critical concerns of leadership for the emerging WestMidwest Community. One of our key points was unity. Unity wasn't stated as such but there were phrases like, keep in close communication, have decisions made with community input, refound and rethink what mercy means today, have structures in place so no one is left out, be of concern for the poor.
These are key elements for a community of unity. Unity is not uniformity. In days gone by, the rules were more in keeping with uniformity. For instance when one group of sisters were changing from their traditional garb to the modified style it was made a rule that all hems would be 12 inches from the floor. Now imagine what that would be on a sister almost 6 feet tall and one who was barely five feet! That's uniformity, not unity!
Today as we reflect upon what the quote means let us consider these two questions:
By my presence and personality, do I promote unity or disharmony?
Is the spirit of Mercy alive in me or have I left it go dormant?
www.sistersofmercy.org
The blessing of unity still dwells among us...
this is the true spirit of Mercy flowing on us...
Last night I was on a conference call dealing with the critical concerns of leadership for the emerging WestMidwest Community. One of our key points was unity. Unity wasn't stated as such but there were phrases like, keep in close communication, have decisions made with community input, refound and rethink what mercy means today, have structures in place so no one is left out, be of concern for the poor.
These are key elements for a community of unity. Unity is not uniformity. In days gone by, the rules were more in keeping with uniformity. For instance when one group of sisters were changing from their traditional garb to the modified style it was made a rule that all hems would be 12 inches from the floor. Now imagine what that would be on a sister almost 6 feet tall and one who was barely five feet! That's uniformity, not unity!
Today as we reflect upon what the quote means let us consider these two questions:
By my presence and personality, do I promote unity or disharmony?
Is the spirit of Mercy alive in me or have I left it go dormant?
www.sistersofmercy.org
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Long Life
A quote for Catherine McAuley:
Should we live to be hundred; each day should be more perfect.
"Resolve to do good today, but better tomorrow..." Catherine wasn't so much focused on doing heroic feats each day, but rather to take small careful strides in the right direction each day. This is an inimical process toward perfection. It is something we can all strive to do and something that will never be accomplished. Yet is does not leave us discouraged.
Catherine was indeed a practical woman living in a time drawing other practical women to her work. When one has to be about the business of service, one does not have the luxury of long arduous times of prayer, penance and reflection. The work needs to be done as well.
That does not mean that Catherine did not spend time in prayer or penitential practices. We know she did. She did not want the penitential practices to override the practical work that needed to be done.
For us today, during this season of Advent, let us look at the resolve to be good to day and better tomorrow. What poor habits need to be broken and recreated anew? Is it time to give up smoking? Is it time to be kinder to a particular person? Is it time to be more generous in the giving of time? Who needs you to visit them?
Let us improve on this day, by resolving to be better than yesterday, to be aware of those who have needs around us and to be faithful to the ministry and state in life we have been given.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Should we live to be hundred; each day should be more perfect.
"Resolve to do good today, but better tomorrow..." Catherine wasn't so much focused on doing heroic feats each day, but rather to take small careful strides in the right direction each day. This is an inimical process toward perfection. It is something we can all strive to do and something that will never be accomplished. Yet is does not leave us discouraged.
Catherine was indeed a practical woman living in a time drawing other practical women to her work. When one has to be about the business of service, one does not have the luxury of long arduous times of prayer, penance and reflection. The work needs to be done as well.
That does not mean that Catherine did not spend time in prayer or penitential practices. We know she did. She did not want the penitential practices to override the practical work that needed to be done.
For us today, during this season of Advent, let us look at the resolve to be good to day and better tomorrow. What poor habits need to be broken and recreated anew? Is it time to give up smoking? Is it time to be kinder to a particular person? Is it time to be more generous in the giving of time? Who needs you to visit them?
Let us improve on this day, by resolving to be better than yesterday, to be aware of those who have needs around us and to be faithful to the ministry and state in life we have been given.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Conversation
A quote from Catherine:
Your conversation should be simple, pleasant and useful.
During this Advent time, this could be one of the best pieces of advice from our beloved foundress. There is so much noise, hustle and bustle in the air that moments of peace should be sought after. Even if this is not a possibility, then our conversation should lend itself to peacefulness and grace.
This is a season when so many people are depressed, lonely and disillusioned. If our conversation is pleasant and useful, it can bring about harmony with others. Our works and words will then reflect another way of being in the world.Gone then would be the prattling on, the gossiping, the back stabbing and the lack of genuine cordialness. These are missing so much in our world.
Catherine wanted a cordial conversationalist to be part of the qualities for a woman of Mercy. That is still true today. Can we relate with others? Can we talk to anyone in a group? do we seek out only our friends? This season of holiday parties might be a good exercise for us to see if we can expand our graciousness by going out of our way to connect with people we do not usually converse. May our "conversation be simple, pleasant and useful."
www.sistersofmercy.org
Your conversation should be simple, pleasant and useful.
During this Advent time, this could be one of the best pieces of advice from our beloved foundress. There is so much noise, hustle and bustle in the air that moments of peace should be sought after. Even if this is not a possibility, then our conversation should lend itself to peacefulness and grace.
This is a season when so many people are depressed, lonely and disillusioned. If our conversation is pleasant and useful, it can bring about harmony with others. Our works and words will then reflect another way of being in the world.Gone then would be the prattling on, the gossiping, the back stabbing and the lack of genuine cordialness. These are missing so much in our world.
Catherine wanted a cordial conversationalist to be part of the qualities for a woman of Mercy. That is still true today. Can we relate with others? Can we talk to anyone in a group? do we seek out only our friends? This season of holiday parties might be a good exercise for us to see if we can expand our graciousness by going out of our way to connect with people we do not usually converse. May our "conversation be simple, pleasant and useful."
www.sistersofmercy.org
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
God's Quiet Action
A quote from Catherine:
See how quietly the great God does all His mighty works: darkness is spread
over us at night and light returns in the morning, and there is no noise of
drawing curtains or closing shutters.
This morning was a gray morning and as I sat praying, slowly there was light that softened the gray morning and before I knew it, I saw the birds feeding at the bird feeders and the sounds of morning began. There was no fanfare, no noise; it just happened, just as it happens each day and each night.
So constant is that experience in our lives, if we but pay attention. That is the way of God. God comes softly, in silence. To notice we need to be paying attention to the subtle changes that announce God's Presence. Is it a stilling of our pulse? Is it a slowing of our breathing? is it a sense of peace stealing over us like a light, filmy curtain?
Sometime the darkness seems so long, so drawn out that the gray dawn leading to the light may be missed. It's then, I think that God walks closest to us, deepest within. With day, our cares become too much and we forget to pause.
During this Advent season, my prayer is that you pause, at the opening of day to look for God in the long gray dawning. May God be walking in your heart today!
www.sistersofmercy.org
See how quietly the great God does all His mighty works: darkness is spread
over us at night and light returns in the morning, and there is no noise of
drawing curtains or closing shutters.
This morning was a gray morning and as I sat praying, slowly there was light that softened the gray morning and before I knew it, I saw the birds feeding at the bird feeders and the sounds of morning began. There was no fanfare, no noise; it just happened, just as it happens each day and each night.
So constant is that experience in our lives, if we but pay attention. That is the way of God. God comes softly, in silence. To notice we need to be paying attention to the subtle changes that announce God's Presence. Is it a stilling of our pulse? Is it a slowing of our breathing? is it a sense of peace stealing over us like a light, filmy curtain?
Sometime the darkness seems so long, so drawn out that the gray dawn leading to the light may be missed. It's then, I think that God walks closest to us, deepest within. With day, our cares become too much and we forget to pause.
During this Advent season, my prayer is that you pause, at the opening of day to look for God in the long gray dawning. May God be walking in your heart today!
www.sistersofmercy.org
Monday, December 3, 2007
Mercy Quotes
Today I have a quote from M.C. Xavier Maguire:
I feel very, very happy...I am going with courage prepared to meet everything,
with my entire confidence in God.
We could wonder where she was going. Was it to a foreign land never to see Ireland again? Was it to start a foundation? Was it as she prepared for major surgery? Was it in preparation for death? Did she have an adversarial meeting to attend in order to ask for financing?
What the purpose of her going is, is not clear in this quote, but I would like to think we could say that everyday as we go out the door and get into our car whether to work, to school, on the way to the airport or to the doctor's office.
Placing our entire confidence in God...oh how happy we could and would be! Let us practice that today as we go about whatever the day brings us.
www.sistersofmercy.org
I feel very, very happy...I am going with courage prepared to meet everything,
with my entire confidence in God.
We could wonder where she was going. Was it to a foreign land never to see Ireland again? Was it to start a foundation? Was it as she prepared for major surgery? Was it in preparation for death? Did she have an adversarial meeting to attend in order to ask for financing?
What the purpose of her going is, is not clear in this quote, but I would like to think we could say that everyday as we go out the door and get into our car whether to work, to school, on the way to the airport or to the doctor's office.
Placing our entire confidence in God...oh how happy we could and would be! Let us practice that today as we go about whatever the day brings us.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Friday, November 30, 2007
Motive of Obedience
A quote from Catherine:
The motive of our obedience we should ever bear in mind;
it is no other than the love of God.
Toddy is the feast day of St. Andrew, brother, fisherman, apostle, martyr. That pretty well sums up his life. Now what do those words tell us? He was in obedience to his family. He was in obedience to his work place, his brother who also worked the business. He was in obedience to Jesus who called him. He was in obedience to the Holy Spirit who led him to death and final glory.
His motive? From his life you can see his motive, love of family, love of work , love of God even to death. I wonder if any of us could say the same thing. What is our motive for obedience whether it is in the home, the workplace, the convent, the classroom, the friends?
Each of those places have responsibilities and duties. How do we carry them out. Do we use right intelligence and see a bigger picture? Do we only look at what we can get out of it? Do we complain? Do we put off? If our hearts are in the right place, then God is our motive; obedience is our response.
www.sistersofmercy.org
The motive of our obedience we should ever bear in mind;
it is no other than the love of God.
Toddy is the feast day of St. Andrew, brother, fisherman, apostle, martyr. That pretty well sums up his life. Now what do those words tell us? He was in obedience to his family. He was in obedience to his work place, his brother who also worked the business. He was in obedience to Jesus who called him. He was in obedience to the Holy Spirit who led him to death and final glory.
His motive? From his life you can see his motive, love of family, love of work , love of God even to death. I wonder if any of us could say the same thing. What is our motive for obedience whether it is in the home, the workplace, the convent, the classroom, the friends?
Each of those places have responsibilities and duties. How do we carry them out. Do we use right intelligence and see a bigger picture? Do we only look at what we can get out of it? Do we complain? Do we put off? If our hearts are in the right place, then God is our motive; obedience is our response.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Silence
A quote from Catherine;
Perhaps silence is wearying to us, and yet our spiritual advancement
is generally most promoted in the hours of silence.
Our world is filled with noise. To have silence, to really be silent takes a lot of work. We are so unused to it. Yesterday, at noon, we had a prayer for peace as the Israeli and Palestinian leaders met here in the US. It was a full 5 minutes of silence. At first it was very uncomfortable to be with 15 or more people standing in a circle in silence. Yet the time was powerful.
I really had the time to lift up all the people who were players in this summit meeting. I had time to pray for those who are left homeless, who are incarcerated, who are harassers, who are the soldiers, the mothers and so forth.... It was a powerful time. Unfortunately, even in our worship time, there is not enough silence to really get to a depth of prayer that leaves one really, deeply in touch with those for whom we pray and to be deeply in touch with God.
Today take some time for silence. It is not wearying at all. It is more like an oasis in the noisy day. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Perhaps silence is wearying to us, and yet our spiritual advancement
is generally most promoted in the hours of silence.
Our world is filled with noise. To have silence, to really be silent takes a lot of work. We are so unused to it. Yesterday, at noon, we had a prayer for peace as the Israeli and Palestinian leaders met here in the US. It was a full 5 minutes of silence. At first it was very uncomfortable to be with 15 or more people standing in a circle in silence. Yet the time was powerful.
I really had the time to lift up all the people who were players in this summit meeting. I had time to pray for those who are left homeless, who are incarcerated, who are harassers, who are the soldiers, the mothers and so forth.... It was a powerful time. Unfortunately, even in our worship time, there is not enough silence to really get to a depth of prayer that leaves one really, deeply in touch with those for whom we pray and to be deeply in touch with God.
Today take some time for silence. It is not wearying at all. It is more like an oasis in the noisy day. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
www.sistersofmercy.org
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Perseverance
A quote from Catherine:
Perseverance is a constant exercise of self-denial, and as such serves to keep the body
in subjection to the spirit.
As we near the last days of the calendar year and the last days of the church year, this quote may be of some use to me today. Advent is only a few days away. Again we will read in Scriptures of the ongoing waiting for the Savior, the perseverance of those who watch and wait.
How often we forget that waiting is a virtue that is clothed in perseverance. We want everything instantly. We are a throw-away society. If something doesn't fit, or it needs repair, we just throw it away. A new and better model will come out, only to be obsolete in a few years, or months.
Perhaps it is good today to look at perseverance as a spiritual exercise of self-denial. Can I wait for something? for someone? What goals do I have? What is my plan to attain them? If they take a while do I just quit? What can I be doing in the long wait? How can i increase my spiritual side and decrease my whims for wanting things now?
www.sistersofmercy.org
Perseverance is a constant exercise of self-denial, and as such serves to keep the body
in subjection to the spirit.
As we near the last days of the calendar year and the last days of the church year, this quote may be of some use to me today. Advent is only a few days away. Again we will read in Scriptures of the ongoing waiting for the Savior, the perseverance of those who watch and wait.
How often we forget that waiting is a virtue that is clothed in perseverance. We want everything instantly. We are a throw-away society. If something doesn't fit, or it needs repair, we just throw it away. A new and better model will come out, only to be obsolete in a few years, or months.
Perhaps it is good today to look at perseverance as a spiritual exercise of self-denial. Can I wait for something? for someone? What goals do I have? What is my plan to attain them? If they take a while do I just quit? What can I be doing in the long wait? How can i increase my spiritual side and decrease my whims for wanting things now?
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Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Peace and Blessing
This is quote from ?? describing Catherine's actions.
"On the day of her death our Revered Foundress spoke as a loving mother to each of the Sisters; her first and last injunction to all was to preserve union and peace among themselves, adding that if they did, they should enjoy great happiness, so that they would often wonder whence such happiness came."
We can have differences of opinion and still be cordial and caring for the other. When we write off a person just because of a disagreement about some topic, we also write off God who is present in all persons. Are there people you avoid or shun because of their opinions?
Our tradition urges us to consider every aspect of life a blessing. and that means every person as well.
Today let's ask to hear more of where the person is coming from so that we can understand better their heart and mind. And may you have such great happiness and peace that you "wonder whence such happiness came."
"On the day of her death our Revered Foundress spoke as a loving mother to each of the Sisters; her first and last injunction to all was to preserve union and peace among themselves, adding that if they did, they should enjoy great happiness, so that they would often wonder whence such happiness came."
We can have differences of opinion and still be cordial and caring for the other. When we write off a person just because of a disagreement about some topic, we also write off God who is present in all persons. Are there people you avoid or shun because of their opinions?
Our tradition urges us to consider every aspect of life a blessing. and that means every person as well.
Today let's ask to hear more of where the person is coming from so that we can understand better their heart and mind. And may you have such great happiness and peace that you "wonder whence such happiness came."
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Reflection about Catherine
"Prayer was her delight and refuge in all trials"-M. Clare Moore
Mary Clare Moore was a contemporary of Catherine. She knew her from the beginning, so to have her tell us something about Catherine is precious.
I wonder if that could be said of me. Is prayer my delight and my refuge when I have trials?
As I look back on my years, I must say that prayer has not always been a delight. It is a duty, a responsibility and a refuge. So it is more than a delight, though there are so many moments when prayer has been a deep, life-filling and wonderful experience.
The time and the discipline to stay at prayer even when it is dry and seemingly nothing pays off in the end with the consolations and intimations that are received. I can say today that in the midst of all that is happening, time for prayer is an oasis, a delight and a refuge. May you begin today to look at prayer as a delight even if there is nothing happening.
Mary Clare Moore was a contemporary of Catherine. She knew her from the beginning, so to have her tell us something about Catherine is precious.
I wonder if that could be said of me. Is prayer my delight and my refuge when I have trials?
As I look back on my years, I must say that prayer has not always been a delight. It is a duty, a responsibility and a refuge. So it is more than a delight, though there are so many moments when prayer has been a deep, life-filling and wonderful experience.
The time and the discipline to stay at prayer even when it is dry and seemingly nothing pays off in the end with the consolations and intimations that are received. I can say today that in the midst of all that is happening, time for prayer is an oasis, a delight and a refuge. May you begin today to look at prayer as a delight even if there is nothing happening.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Good Purposes
Catherine's words today are;
" Good purposes are the result of serious reflection grounded on faith: they should be made in
the presence of God."
What is the purpose of the actions you took today? Were they to better the Presence of God in the world or did your actions show evidence of God's lack of Presence in your life? What a question to reflect upon today!
Did my day start with prayer? Did I greet everyone I met with cordiality? Did I listen well?
If I begin my day with prayer, then God will help to guide me throughout the day. If I ask for God's help, then in faith I will make good decisions.
May your tomorrow be grounded in faith.
" Good purposes are the result of serious reflection grounded on faith: they should be made in
the presence of God."
What is the purpose of the actions you took today? Were they to better the Presence of God in the world or did your actions show evidence of God's lack of Presence in your life? What a question to reflect upon today!
Did my day start with prayer? Did I greet everyone I met with cordiality? Did I listen well?
If I begin my day with prayer, then God will help to guide me throughout the day. If I ask for God's help, then in faith I will make good decisions.
May your tomorrow be grounded in faith.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Prayer and Praise
A quote today from Catherine McAuley:
"Your whole life should be a continual act of praise and prayer."
Now one might say that this is impossible. And in one sense this is! How can my whole life, every moment be a prayer? Would I ever get anything done?
In another way, this is easy. It's in the intention. Take small steps to begin. Start with a prayer for safety as you buckle your seat belt. Say "thank you" as you reach the green light and do not have to stop. When at a red light say thank you for the moment to catch up with God in our fast pace life.
Do you spend time answering the phone at work? A prayer for the person at the other end as you pick up the phone, may be in order.
Working with the computer? As you answer each e-mail, say a prayer for the person on the other end.
Putting you shoes on-"Are you running with me God? Am I running with you?"
There are so many opportunities to pray in the day. How can you incorporate them into your life?
Remember, it's in the intention, so start the day with the prayer of asking for good attention to the intentions of your day.
"Your whole life should be a continual act of praise and prayer."
Now one might say that this is impossible. And in one sense this is! How can my whole life, every moment be a prayer? Would I ever get anything done?
In another way, this is easy. It's in the intention. Take small steps to begin. Start with a prayer for safety as you buckle your seat belt. Say "thank you" as you reach the green light and do not have to stop. When at a red light say thank you for the moment to catch up with God in our fast pace life.
Do you spend time answering the phone at work? A prayer for the person at the other end as you pick up the phone, may be in order.
Working with the computer? As you answer each e-mail, say a prayer for the person on the other end.
Putting you shoes on-"Are you running with me God? Am I running with you?"
There are so many opportunities to pray in the day. How can you incorporate them into your life?
Remember, it's in the intention, so start the day with the prayer of asking for good attention to the intentions of your day.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Sept. 17, Death of Francis Xavier Warde
Today we recall the life of Francis Xavier Warde who died on this date in 1884. What a great time to recall her blessings and gifts to the world. There were over 100 foundations and missions started by her in the U. S. Little did she know how we would grow in the years to follow. Today I want to quote an article found in Carlow Annals that described our American Mother.
"Of a very cheerful disposition herself, Rev. Mother encouraged the Sisters to be so too;
she would laugh heartily at little witicisms, and invariably gave recreation...a most
gracious approval. Like our Holy Foundress, she was particualrly fond of music, and
often called on the Sisters to contribute to the general amusement by their vocal and
instrumental attainments..."
May your day be filled with cheer and laughter!
"Of a very cheerful disposition herself, Rev. Mother encouraged the Sisters to be so too;
she would laugh heartily at little witicisms, and invariably gave recreation...a most
gracious approval. Like our Holy Foundress, she was particualrly fond of music, and
often called on the Sisters to contribute to the general amusement by their vocal and
instrumental attainments..."
May your day be filled with cheer and laughter!
Friday, September 14, 2007
Sept. 14 Catherine's Words
Catherine McAuley's quote of the day:
"Our mututal respect and charity should be cordial; now cordial signifies something that revives, invigorates and warms, such should be the effects of our love for each other."
WhenI first read this in an earlier time of the day, my first thought was that, yes, it is like a cordial of wine that one might have as one begins an evening meal. It revivies, invigorates and warms, as much as the good conversation of friends.
Today let us look at the cordial moments of our day. When are you revived or warmed? What invigorates you?
Today I will look at the trees outside my window, the people who walk into my life and the events that happen today and reflect on which are cordial. They will have the marks of respect and kindness imprinted on them, I'm sure.
"Our mututal respect and charity should be cordial; now cordial signifies something that revives, invigorates and warms, such should be the effects of our love for each other."
WhenI first read this in an earlier time of the day, my first thought was that, yes, it is like a cordial of wine that one might have as one begins an evening meal. It revivies, invigorates and warms, as much as the good conversation of friends.
Today let us look at the cordial moments of our day. When are you revived or warmed? What invigorates you?
Today I will look at the trees outside my window, the people who walk into my life and the events that happen today and reflect on which are cordial. They will have the marks of respect and kindness imprinted on them, I'm sure.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Catherine's Words for Today
"Give glory to the Name of God by word and example so that in all of what people say and hear of you they may be induced to say, "Glory be to God! Praise be to Jesus Christ!" Catherine wrote these word so many years ago and yet there is something that is a message for us today.
I recall teaching in a school where there was a dad who had a good job, great home and lots of friends. Unfortunately his choice of words left a lot to be desired. One day a woman remarked to him that she would have never known that he was Catholic by the words he used. It left a deep impression on him and he cleaned up his language.
What example do you give? Would people think of God when they hear you speak or see you in action? What might you need to change in your life?
If we are to be followers of Christ, we need to let our words and deeds be our witness to the Gospel.
I recall teaching in a school where there was a dad who had a good job, great home and lots of friends. Unfortunately his choice of words left a lot to be desired. One day a woman remarked to him that she would have never known that he was Catholic by the words he used. It left a deep impression on him and he cleaned up his language.
What example do you give? Would people think of God when they hear you speak or see you in action? What might you need to change in your life?
If we are to be followers of Christ, we need to let our words and deeds be our witness to the Gospel.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Mercy Reflections
"May God make you the instrument of His glory." Catherine McAuley
This morning I was visiting with Sr. C., one of our older sisters who is a wisdom figure in our community. She shared a little about of of the other sisters who has an isolation sign at her door. This sister had a long career as a teacher, teaching hundreds of students in her writing classes. Today she is suffering, unable to communicate well. How can God use a very gifted teacher who cannot talk or write well to be his instrument of glory?
Yet, she is. She always has a smile on her face. seems eager to visit with anyone who comes into her room and tries, with humor, to communicate as she can. On the outside we may see someone with a disability. On the inside is this rich, warm, loving woman who has given of her life and gifts to many.
God can take any of us, the clumsy, the poor, the stuttering, the gifted and the not-so-smart and use us for His glory. Catherine was right. Each of us can be and should be an instrument of God's glory. When was the last time you asked God to make you an instrument of His glory?
Now an instrument is just a means, a vehicle, to carry out the intent of the user. Are we allowing God to use us to carry out His intent?
This morning I was visiting with Sr. C., one of our older sisters who is a wisdom figure in our community. She shared a little about of of the other sisters who has an isolation sign at her door. This sister had a long career as a teacher, teaching hundreds of students in her writing classes. Today she is suffering, unable to communicate well. How can God use a very gifted teacher who cannot talk or write well to be his instrument of glory?
Yet, she is. She always has a smile on her face. seems eager to visit with anyone who comes into her room and tries, with humor, to communicate as she can. On the outside we may see someone with a disability. On the inside is this rich, warm, loving woman who has given of her life and gifts to many.
God can take any of us, the clumsy, the poor, the stuttering, the gifted and the not-so-smart and use us for His glory. Catherine was right. Each of us can be and should be an instrument of God's glory. When was the last time you asked God to make you an instrument of His glory?
Now an instrument is just a means, a vehicle, to carry out the intent of the user. Are we allowing God to use us to carry out His intent?
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Catherine's Quote of the Day
"Hurray for Foundations! They make the old young and the young merry!"
New beginnings! How much excitement there is in a new endeavor even if there is some fear and anxiety. Remember starting school, going off the college, or the first day at that first job. I remember the first day driving to my first mission to teach school. I was travelling with three sisters all older than my mother. I wondered how we would get along and how the convent would look and how my classroom would be. It turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life!
A couple of years ago I was asked to begin a new house. This was to be a ministry of welcoming. I felt like I was beginning a new foundation. I gathered three other sisters to be part of this house, the House of Welcome.
We did some sharing beforehand about how this would work. I wonder if Catherine McAuley our foundress did the same thing as she decided which sisters would go to start a new foundation. Did she gather only those who agreed with her, did she look for sisters who had particular skills, or did she see who would fit together? We may never know,but we do know she was successful. She was a good judge of people when it came to service to those in need.
New beginnings! How much excitement there is in a new endeavor even if there is some fear and anxiety. Remember starting school, going off the college, or the first day at that first job. I remember the first day driving to my first mission to teach school. I was travelling with three sisters all older than my mother. I wondered how we would get along and how the convent would look and how my classroom would be. It turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life!
A couple of years ago I was asked to begin a new house. This was to be a ministry of welcoming. I felt like I was beginning a new foundation. I gathered three other sisters to be part of this house, the House of Welcome.
We did some sharing beforehand about how this would work. I wonder if Catherine McAuley our foundress did the same thing as she decided which sisters would go to start a new foundation. Did she gather only those who agreed with her, did she look for sisters who had particular skills, or did she see who would fit together? We may never know,but we do know she was successful. She was a good judge of people when it came to service to those in need.
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