Formation

Flying Geese, Fighter Pilots and Ministry

The next time you watch a flock of geese, pause for a moment — think about what they can teach us about ministry in general and, especially, “long-haul” ministries of systemic change.

Choose the One Who Chooses Us First

Jesus leads and completes the mission of those he sees fit to choose on his own initiative.  They, in turn, keep their eyes on him; he shows them to be like him and do as he. It is Jesus who takes the initiative to choose his apostles, missionaries or those he sends. ...

Vincentian Prayer Images: What Moved Saint Vincent? I

Luke 4:18 – “He has sent me to… bring good news to the poor.”

Seeking Wisdom Through Common Ground

In 1993, my husband Bill and I set out on a new journey and, together with the Vincentian priests and brothers, birthed the Colorado Vincentian Volunteers (which is now part of MISEVI).

Befriending the Other #IamVincent

Befriending the Other #IamVincent

Coming to the Midwest I expected to jump right into a new community. I had moved many times before and was generally good at the whole “making friends” thing. But it suddenly became harder after living intentionally with nine souls that intricately became connected...

A Vincentian Creed

A Vincentian Creed

I BELIEVE in God, the Lord of history who is and who comes; I BELIEVE in Jesus Christ, the Lord of life, who gave Himself for me, for you, for all without exception and who awaits me in the tabernacle; who is delivered as food under the species of bread and wine; who...

Hearing The Voice (John 10:1-10)

Framing The Scene

Framing The Scene  (John 11:1-45) I remember a wise person once telling me that there’s no such thing as an un-interpreted fact. Everything you see out there you see through some kind of frame, some angle of approach that not only affects how you see, but more...

Advocacy and Systemic Change

Advocacy and Systemic Change

“Speaking truth to power….Making our voices heard---"     Advocacy: the process of supporting a cause or proposal, pleading or arguing in favor of an idea or policy.  Advocacy is active, not passive, and can take many forms.  But for Vincentians it means taking the...

Farewell that Brings Life and Courage

Farewell that Brings Life and Courage

Jesus encourages his followers as he bids them farewell.  He reveals that he is the way and the truth and the life. Jesus bids his followers farewell.  He knows it troubles them.  So, he says:  “Do not let your hearts be troubled.  You have faith in God; have faith...