A Message From Lee

Dear Folks,

I’m writing this on St. Patrick’s Day (Monday.) I like to thank the Irish folks for the high honor they give to a British monk. Seriously, Patrick was born in a Christian family in Britain and his grandfather and father were in holy orders. At 16 he was captured by slavers and carried off to Ireland. He escaped at 21 and was educated and ordained in Britain. Around age 42, he had a vision that called him to return to Ireland as a missionary and the rest is history.

For me, what is remarkable is that he did return to the place where he had been enslaved and not with revenge in mind. It seems to have some parallels to Paul’s conversion. Many of us might not have had much use for people who kidnapped and enslaved us.

Still, when he followed God’s call and brought a faith built on loving grace, he accomplished great things. Of course, he faced a land dominated by pagan religions whereas we face a land where faith and especially Christian faith was “assumed” for a long time. Presently, “Nones” are the fastest growing group on the religious scene.

All of us who are baptized are also called to be messengers of the faith we profess - re-read our Baptismal vows - as a vocation and priority even though we have various occupations. No, it doesn’t mean we have to be “street corner evangelists” but there are so many needs and so much spiritual hunger all around that we can address with whatever gifts and resources we have. My prayer is “open my eyes and my heart...”

Peace

Lee