As Franciscan Friars of the Atonement, we unite our hearts to Jesus’ prayer “that all may be one.” Like our patron, St. Francis of Assisi, we consider everyone our brothers and sisters, and we strive to share God’s love with them.
Practicing “At-One-Ment” is not something reserved for Friars and religious sisters. Anyone can follow the lead of Servant of God Fr. Paul Wattson, SA, and find ways to live at one with God, with each other, and within themselves.
Here are five ways to practice At-One-Ment every day:
1. Enjoy life as God’s gift to you
Have you ever stepped outside on a crisp, sunny morning and immediately thanked God for the beauty around you? St. Francis did, too. He found God throughout nature and saw it all as His gift to us. Even when things are difficult, there is peace knowing that God is with you. Take time to appreciate everything in your life and give God glory for it.
2. Share that joy with others
Hospitality and charity are essential components of At-One-Ment. When you open your heart to others, you help them to discover joy in their lives. This does not require grand gestures. Give a warm smile to someone you pass on the street. Take an elderly friend out for lunch. Share the Gospel with someone who has never heard it. Joy is contagious, and when we spread it, we take one step closer toward unity.
3. Find Christ in others
Charity calls us to see Christ in every person. At St. Christopher’s Inn, we see Christ in men broken by addiction, and we help them discover hope, healing, and their true value. Where in your community can you share Christ’s love with others? It might be volunteering at a shelter or visiting nursing home residents. As you find Christ in these individuals, you will also recognize their dignity.
4. Seek peace
In a world filled with division, the Friars seek to promote harmony among all peoples and religions. Whether at home or in the workplace, you can bring Christ’s peace to all you know through respectful dialogue and compassion. To restore your inner peace, consider making a retreat or spending quiet time in a sacred space. If you are near Garrison, NY, we invite you to experience tranquility and prayerfulness on the Holy Mountain.
5. Pray daily for Christian unity
As Fr. Paul once wrote, “The unity that exists between God the Father and God the Son is a most intimate one, and yet our Lord desires that the same unity might be manifested and set forth in the members of His mystical body.” God wants all of His people to be one. Pray that we may one day fulfill His desire to be united with Him through Jesus Christ.