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THE GRACE TO SAY FOREVER I would like to tell you about an event that took place on Saturday, June 25th here at Graymoor. It was on that day that six of our friars celebrated Diamond and Golden Jubilees. These Men have served the Lord for 50 and 60 years as Friars of the Atonement in different parts of the world. All of them early in their life said “yes” to God and vowed forever. It used to be that forever was a household word. Sadly, these days, for many people forever seems a little unrealistic. You know the phrase: “nothing lasts forever.” Whether it is peace or justice, friendships or faith, money or fame, a suntan or a car -- nothing lasts forever. Today’s world tends to point to a generalized view that times change, ideals die, good Christians convert, neighborhoods go down or governments topple. New offers are too attractive to pass up for quarterbacks, coaches, executives or even the average needed employee. All sorts of people have vowed forever to a person or a place, to an institution or to God. And yet the question remains in today’s world – Can we, should we, ever say forever? I encourage you to get beyond the concept of “today’s world” and consider what St. Paul said, “The Spirit we have received is not the world’s spirit, but God’s Spirit helping us to recognize the gifts he has given us.” (1 Cor. 2:12). Thankfully, the six friars who joyfully renewed their vows at the special Jubilee Mass all gave a resounding “yes” to this question. God has blessed our Jubilarians with many gifts and these gifts and talents they did not hide. Rather, over the years, they shared them with the Community and those to whom they ministered. Through God’s grace, they have freely, with an unwavering commitment given to others their time, talent, substance and unique gifts. I assure you that forever is no easier a concept for a Friar of the Atonement than it is for any of us. We simply need to strive daily to live our lives to the fullness of the God who created us. Live for those around you, live for those to whom you can minister - live for the one who said if you love me, the Father, I will dwell inside of you. It is Him that you should look to receive your discernment and strength regarding forever – not today’s world. It is God who gives all of us the strength and the grace to say forever. Yours in Christ, FRIARS OBSERVE JUBILEES AT GRAYMOOR – CELEBRATING SERVICE TO GODOn Saturday, June 25th, six friars celebrated jubilees, marking their arrivals into the community and the start of their religious careers. V. Rev. James F. Puglisi, SA, Minister General, was the principal celebrant and homilist. View Pictures and Learn More about the Jubilee Celebration >> The theme for the annual celebration of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2012 has been announced by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Commission on Faith and Order of the World Council of Churches. The theme for the 2012 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is: We Will All Be Changed by the Victory of Our Lord Jesus Christ (cf. 1Corinthians 15:51-58). The Church Unity Octave, a forerunner of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, was developed by Father Paul Wattson, SA, at Graymoor in Garrison, New York, and was first observed at Graymoor from January 18-25, 1908. Today, the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity invites the whole Christian community throughout the world to pray in communion with the prayer of Jesus “that they all may be one” (John 17:21). Learn more about the 2012 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity >> He is not only a Franciscan Friar of the Atonement and the pastor at St. Joan of Arc parish in Toronto, he is also a highly accomplished tri-athlete. On July 24, he will compete in his 13th Ironman competition at Lake Placid, NY. His distinctive combination of spiritual and physical stamina has earned him the nickname "Iron Friar." Fr. Callahan takes part in the event to raise money for various causes including the rehabilitation and healing ministries of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement at Graymoor. The Friars will hold their 18th Annual Sharing Hope Celebration Dinner on Friday, September 30th at The Pierre in New York City. The benefit honors those who have shown a commitment to helping others and inspiring hope. Fr. Damian MacPherson, SA, director of ecumenical and interfaith affairs, archdiocese of Toronto, is a member of a group planning a Christian, Muslim, Jewish pilgrimage to the Holy Land. In the Path of Abraham, seeks to advocate for peace and understanding. The pilgrimage departs Sept. 4 and returns the following Sunday. For information, call Fr. Damian at 416-934-3400, ext. 344. Many employers sponsor matching gift programs, and will match charitable contributions made by their employees. If your company matches, you may be able to access the forms directly by searching the link below. Follow the set procedure for your company, and of course, we will be happy to assist. The impact of your gift may be doubled or possibly tripled! Some companies even match gifts made by retirees and/or spouses. |
Franciscan Friars of the Atonement
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Atonement Friars eNews is the monthly e-newsletter of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement |