Hospitality

Henri Nouwen, wrote in his book, Reaching Out:  The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life that “Hospitality means primarily the creation of free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend instead of an enemy. Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer them space where change can take place. It is not to bring men and women over to our side, but to offer freedom not disturbed by dividing lines.”  Hospitality is a virtue that we practice every day of our lives.  Each one in their own way reaches out to others and tries to make others feel welcome.  Every culture has its own unique style of greeting others and often this centers around food.  Whether it is a cup of tea, a croissant, a cannoli, plantains, or a seven course meal the reality is the same.  Human beings are meant to share life together.  It is in our daily interactions that we continue to practice hospitality.  Let us always remember to welcome the stranger the same way we welcome a friend. 

Pat Schifini, OSU

Being Merciful

Lent is the time to demonstrate how our faith calls us to compassion and mercy.  We are called to be full of mercy and forgiveness.  Pope Francis has declared the special year of mercy this year and we are encouraged to practice it in all we do.  Mother Teresa once said, “Seeking the face of God in everything, everyone, all the time, and his hand in every happening; this is what it means to be contemplative in the heart of the world. Seeing and adoring the presence of Jesus, especially in the lowly appearance of bread, and in the distressing disguise of the poor” (In the Heart of the World).   I believe that this is what we are called to.  Our God is always there for us and is always willing to forgive.  We need to do the same.

Pat Schifini, OSU

Good Example

All of our lives we are told to be a good example for others.  Everyone can relate to this statement.  What does it truly mean?  Does it mean to be a “goody goody” all the time, doing what is pleasing, or acting in a way that is not true to how you really are?  Perhaps is means some of all of the above.  We are called to be imitators and reflectors of Jesus Christ, modelling the values that Jesus taught at all times, and trying our best to live out the gospel call to love at all times.  This is not always the easiest or most popular road.  At times we don’t want to be the ideal person we are called to be.  We are only human and at times respond out of that reality.  Within the big picture of life it is important to remember that Jesus probably also had the days when he wished everyone would leave him be.  Yet he never responded out of that place.  Let us always remember to keep trying to be the good example we are called to be and live our lives confident of Jesus’ love and care for us.

Pat Schifini, OSU

Compassion

Compassion, "to be with passion" can also be translated, "to be with love."  All around us we see signs of compassion in the faces of doctors and nurses who care for the sick of the world and in those who stop to care for the homeless and the poor who live among us daily. Jesus showed compassion when he healed the soldier's daughter and Peter's mother-in-law.  And he certainly showed compassion when he raised Lazarus from the dead.  I can show compassion by reaching out to a classmate who looks sad or one who is sitting by herself.  I can show compassion by defending someone who is being talked about.  I can show compassion by trying my best to love those people who drive me crazy.  I can show compassion by treating my siblings with kindness.  Look to Jesus as a model of someone who lived with compassion, with love.

K. M. Donohue, OSU

Who do you day that I am?

In today’s Gospel we here the familiar question posed to Jesus’ disciples, “Who do you say that the Son of Man is?”  Whenever I hear this particular Gospel I am drawn back to the day of my reception into the Ursuline Community as this was the Gospel that day.  Since that rainy August day some 30 years ago this Gospel has truly been part of my journey of faith and growth.  As the disciples answered the question for Jesus back in the day I find myself pondering it today.  The response is very much the same but there is a certain certitude of heart now that was not present long ago.  

Lent gives us the opportunity to reflect on our relationship with Jesus in a deeper way.  We are encouraged to look deep within.  Our God encourages us to see the good in one another and to accept each person where they are coming from.  We are called to be Christ for one another and to remember that Christ came to save each one of us.  Like Peter we need to have the courage to admit that Jesus is truly, “The Son of the living God.”  We are called to share that reality with all those we encounter.  Let us live this day and each day in joy and peace!

Pat Schifini, OSU

Service of Others

The motto of all Ursuline schools is Serviam, Latin for “I will serve.”  But what does Serviam really mean?  It’s a way to deepen your concern for others and turn it into meaningful action.  It’s a calling to use your unique gifts and talents to help those in need. It’s an attitude and a spirit that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

But what does the shield stand for?   First, the Serviam shield is used worldwide and represents all Ursuline schools.  Our motto Serviam, “I will serve,” signifies service of God, of country, family and society.  Serviam is a profession of faith in practice.

The seven stars represent Ursa Minor and remind us of our patroness, Saint Ursula. The North Star in Ursa Minor reflects our search for Jesus, the Truth, in all our decisions and actions.  The shield stands for loyalty to others and consistency in our actions.  The cross is the foundation of one’s life, and gives us courage to face life’s difficult times.  The cross reminds us of our faith.

Let us live this day and every day in the service of others.

Pat Schifini, OSU

Forgiveness

When I think about forgiveness I think about letting go of resentment, anger and the human desire to get even.  We all get hurt, offended, are misunderstood, lied to, and feel rejected.  It is learning how to respond to these emotions is one of the basics of the Christian life.  The real meaning of the word “forgive” means to wipe the slate clean, to pardon, to cancel a debt.  When we wrong someone, we seek their forgiveness in order to restore our relationship with them.  This is an important step and we have to remember that forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves it.  It is given as an act of love, mercy and grace.  Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life.  Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for happiness, health and peace. Forgiveness can lead to: peace of mind, better health, happiness, relief and sustains our relationships.  Let us live each day remembering the importance of forgiveness.

Pat Schifini, OSU