"How much more will the blood of Christ ° cleanse our consciences from dead works to worship the living God." - Hebrews 9:14
I used to think saints were obscure people whose works did not easily relate in today's trying times. However, today's St. Marianne Cope, one of the newest Saints (canonized October 12, 2012), lived the words of Hebrews from today's Mass as she ministered to the lepers on Molokai Island. "But when Christ came as high priest ° he entered once for all into the sanctuary ° with his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption." (Heb 9:11-12) Mother Marianne saw that Christ's redemptive love, given unconditionally, was for all and dedicated her life's work in unconditional love bringing relief to the lepers of Molokai Island, even establishing orphanages and schools for the children of lepers.
Another member of her community penned a prayer imploring St. Cope to guide us today, "St. Marianne Cope, intercede for us as we try to become sensitive to the needs of others in these times of upheaval. Help us to empower those who are most vulnerable and have had their voices muffled in the face of power. Give us the insights we need to perceive all as our brothers and sisters, and include them in our circle of love." (Sister Barbara Jean Wajda, O.S.F) Unconditional love. . . it is what we need to live today.
When have I failed to "see" with eyes of love those whose voices are muffled?
St. Marianne Cope, intercede for us before the Lord. Help us have the strength to be welcoming and inclusive of ALL our sisters and brothers this day. Amen.
Reflection by:
Alan Gauzens
Did You Know...
Alan Gauzens is a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Dunedin. There, he is a lector and active in men's ministries including the Knights of Columbus, That Man Is You! and Tap Into Discipleship. A 2019 graduate of the Lay Pastoral Ministry Institute, Alan and his wife Joanne have been married for 40 years and are blessed with 4 children.
