Leadership Monthly

Reflection Column

Hope Unbroken – Journeying in God’s Promise

The Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) met in Atlanta, GA from August 12-15. Throughout the event, participants acknowledged the struggle of these times and explored the practices that can ground them in faith so they can live “hope unbroken” for the sake of the world, the church, and their religious communities.  I have drawn a few points from the keynote speakers that might be used for your personal reflection:

Sr. Kathy Brazda, CSJ, LCWR president

·      Dread is not of God

·      Letting go of control without letting go of purpose

·      We become doors and windows through which the light of Christ shines

Sr. Simona Brambilla, MC prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life In Rome 

·      Consecrated life is a sign of hope for today

·      Humble stars are called to illuminate the night

·      Nighttime can be scary but much can be born after the night

·      Evil is afraid of the soft light of God

James Martin, SJ, editor-at-large at America Media – thoughts taken from his book “Come Forth” based on the story of Lazarus

·      Leave behind in the tomb that which binds us

·      Lazarus knew who was calling him to come forth and could respond and say YES to Jesus’ voice

·      Martha – focus on new life; what are we called to do?

·      Mary – focus on interior freedom; how are we called to pray and discern?

·      Lazarus – put away our old self; who are we called to be?

Prayer 
(from Pax Christi Michigan State Council - submitted by Jovita Harrah, Associate from CA)

Jesus: America, do you love me?
America: Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.
Jesus: Then care for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized.

Jesus: America, do you love me?
America: Lord, your know that I love you.
Jesus: Then seek justice, show mercy, and walk humbly with your God.
 
Jesus: America, do you love me?
America: (frustrated) Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.
Jesus: Then welcome the stranger, love your neighbor, and remember that whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me.