March 23, 2010

Yesterday was World Water Day, a time to remember the blessings of safe, drinkable water that we so much take for granted. World Water Day was started by the UN to bring awareness of our global water crisis and to protect our vital water resources. I read an interesting and disturbing sentence: “For every liter of water that goes into a bottle, two liters of water are used to make the plastic bottle for the water.” And then the bottle is just junked except for the small percentage of bottles that get recycled! What a waste. I can’t remember the last time I had a bottle of water. I reuse my own glass or cup and take tap water with me when I travel or go to meetings. We commemorated water at our Mass yesterday and sang many songs that reminded us of the blessings of water. Sr. Mary gave a beautiful reflection on water.

I’d expect that those who are struggling to keep flood waters from damaging their homes and businesses have some different thoughts about water at this time.

Last Thursday after work, I drove over the Mississippi River Bridge here in town to the west side of the river. The banks of the river and the river itself were covered with big chunks of ice. There was concern that the ice could damage the bridge and the dam. (The bridge over the Mississippi north of town was closed and remains closed because of shore damage due to the raging waters.) What to me was so amazing, was that Friday morning when I went across the bridge to an 8 a.m. meeting, the ice was all gone!

The Secular Franciscans had their Spring Retreat at St. Francis last Saturday. Our speaker helped us reflect on the Canticle of Creatures, written by St. Francis of Assisi. I have a new appreciation for this writing. We had a large crowd of SFOs present for the day.

Last Sunday I attended the 12th Annual Share Sunday events at Mary of Lourdes Middle School. The talent Show was great. What talented youth and adults we have in our community. I’m sure glad I didn’t have to be a judge. All proceeds went to the county Food Shelves and Oasis Share-A-Meal.

These three days, until 10 a.m. on Thursday we have a Clothing Swap/ Furniture Sale going on in St. Francis Hall. I will have to do a “wander through” to see what I can see.

Sunday, the 28th, we start Holy Week. Our Palm Sunday services at the Motherhouse are at the usual time of 8:30 a.m. May Holy Week be a time of special blessings for you. Each year I like the Liturgical Celebrations of the week better. Next week I will post the time schedule for events at the Convent.

Pax et Bonum (St. Francis’ greeting of peace.)
Sister Mary Lou