September 8th is a special day, besides being Mary’s Birthday; some of our sisters entered religious life on this day. Happy Anniversary to all of you who consider the 8th your entrance day! For me, it has been sixty-one years, what an adventure! I am sure that we can agree there have been many highs and lows, but by the grace of God and support of each other, we have made it to today.
With that in mind I would like to share with you a poem one of our parishioners at Sts. Philip and James Church wrote that spoke of support and joy of community. Although it was not the intent of the author, Barbara Chandler, it rang true of my personal experiences as a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth:
Gathered Together
Here we are, Women, gathered together.
Lean on me today, I’m feeling strong.
Although, I understand it may not be for long,
Then I’ll lean on you tomorrow,
For the Spirit winds prevail.
What’s strong for me this season
Can definitely fail.
Here we are, Women, gathered together.
The taste of Courage is palatable about the place
Some richer, some poorer
Some sick and some in health.
But if we all truly grasp the moment,
We know there’s little to do with wealth,
Except, the wealth of knowledge,
That we know the body aches, with
Confusion and pain in a world that suffers around us.
Bringing much disdain. (breathe deeply)
Here we are, Women, gathered together,
Our hearts we must reveal,
In order to sustain strength from one to another
As long as we can shout…
“Here we are Lord, Women, gathered together,” Joyfully praying “show us how to help!”
Thank you, Barbara, and blessings as you continue to gather with faithful followers of Jesus. During this week it might be wise to look at our past journeys and recognize the people, both men and women, who have shared their faith and trust in God with us and continue to do so.
Together may we continue to shout joyfully, “Lord show us how to help!”
Till next week,
Sister Theresita
PS: The timing is perfect for the celebration of the feast of the Blessed Martyrs of Nowogródek. (September 4th).
