“Keep things that spark joy and get rid of the rest” is the mantra of people seeking to declutter their lives. What sparked joy in St. Vincent and St. Louise?
John Freund, CM
Author
John Freund is a Vincentian priest with a passion for promoting collaboration among the many people inspired by Saints Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac and who welcomes your engagement. Share your ideas and experiences!
Quiet Change Agents Giants
Jean Vanier changed the attitude of the world to people we might arrogantly label as handicapped. St. Vincent changed the attitude of so many in France towards the poor.
Our Changing Images
Our images change over time. Sometimes others never get past the images and roles we had earlier in life. Other times they come to appreciate things they did not see earlier or traits we only developed later. Might that apply to our images of Mary?
A Mother Knows So Much About Systemic Change
Think of it. Mothers everywhere are key agents of the transformation of helpless newborns into independent adults.
Being Easter People in a Good Friday/Holy Saturday World
In a Good Friday/Holy Saturday world have you ever prayed the “Stations of the Resurrection”?
Reacting to New Ways of Thinking
I don’t think I ever really appreciated how much of a radical change in thinking observant Jews were asked to make regarding their deeply held identity and beliefs. The Acts of the Apostles reveal the struggles to understand and accept a new way of thinking and living. It did not happen all at once.
Recognizing Jesus in the Breaking of Bread … Today
Perhaps for the first time, I asked myself why did the breaking of the bread open their eyes more than seeing and listening to Jesus along the road.
Emmaus – Beginning a Systemic Change Process
As we read the Acts of the Apostles in this Easter season we see how it took time for the good news of the resurrection to sink in. Each Easter season I am amazed at what I learn about myself and ministry in their struggles.
Holy Week – Jesus Asks “Do you understand?”
Holy Week – Jesus washes feet and asks “Do you understand?” God is present in loving service more than power and might.
Vincentians Then and Now – Dodging Rocks With Immigrants
The first Vincentian priests in the U.S. stood with immigrants dodging the rocks thrown by jeering Know Nothings who opposed them.
