The wonder of God’s Kingdom

February 19, 2013

We are into the First Week of Lent. And it will be over before we know it! We are made right with God through Jesus Christ and this is a gift. Jesus gave Himself; God initiated our relationship with God and continues to do so unless we do something stupid to break off that relationship. This gift comes to us with a responsibility on our part to live as He directs … to walk as Christ walked: doing justice, seeking mercy and sharing kindness, utilizing our gifts and talents for the sake of witnessing to the wonder of God’s Kingdom in our midst. At Mass on Monday, Father Michael used the quote from C S Lewis, “Next to the Blessed Sacrament Itself, your neighbor is the holiest object presented to your senses.” So, taking care of our brothers and sisters and all of creation is what it’s all about.

After the snow last Monday we had all kinds of beautifully decorated trees and shrubs until the wind came up. Then for a while, being outside was like walking in a heavy snowfall.



I was in the Cities for a Secular Franciscan Regional Council Meeting on Saturday. Driving conditions were about as perfect as one would want them.

At 5 p.m. Monday our temperature was 14 degrees, but the wind chill was much below zero.

Monday evening St. Gabriel’s Hospital was holding its employee Appreciation event in St. Francis Hall. They had many employees being recognized for their many years of service. While working at switchboard this noon we had many beautiful flowers to admire before they were taken away as dining room decorations.

At Wednesday’s Dining Adventure, we will be celebrating the State of Florida. It is always fun to see what foods will be served and what the table decorations will be. We have creative people to put it all together. I’ll show you a picture or two next week.

Saturday morning some of the CCD students from three area parishes will be coming for a tour of the Motherhouse and will learn some things about the Sisters and our ministries.

Saturday at 7 p.m. the Sestri Singers will put on a concert in Sacred Heart Chapel. It is free and we welcome everyone.

May you have a grace-filled Lenten week.

Peace and blessings,
Sister Mary Lou