Embracing Difference

14th Sunday of Ordinary Time

On Thursday we celebrate the feast of St Benedict, Co-patron of Europe, and in these politically divided times, his intercession is much needed.  As our listening sessions continue, I am continually humbled to be part of this Synodal experience and was privileged to have facilitated listening at the Carmelite Monastery alongside Sue Faulkner, the Synod member at St Wilfrid.  Despite the physical boundaries that enclose the order, the openness of thought and insight shared by the sisters transcended those walls. The unity experienced between three very different communities coming together in this Carmel Community at Maryton serves as a great hope for many of our own parish situations here in Liverpool South.  Differences can be embraced and celebrated by relating to each other in a spirit of openness – where two or three are gathered, there we can find unity in the heart of Christ who beats within each one of us.  I thank God for this true powerhouse of prayer, inspiration and tranquillity in the midst of our unpredictable world. “May you trust God, that you are exactly where you are meant to be.” Teresa of Avila. I’m at St Clare & St Hugh’s parish this weekend.

God Bless, Helen

7/7/2019