At this time of the year, I find myself drawn to pondering “in-between times.” I think of the time between the Resurrection and the Ascension as such a time.
vincentian spirituality
Drinking The Chalice (Matthew 20:17-38)
At different times and circumstances in our lives, we are challenged to take on one trial or another in the service of the neighbor.
A Vincentian View: A Good Conscience
All of us have heard the expression “Let your conscience be your guide.” Vincent’s regular insistence upon a good examination of conscience would certainly embrace the spirit of that encouragement.
The Grounding Word
Commenting on a person’s prayer, Vincent voices his firm belief in God’s Word sustaining our service.
A Vincentian View: The Homily
Meeting this year with the priests of Rome, Pope Leo spoke about the use of Artificial Intelligence—the ubiquitous AI—in the preparation of homilies.
Outside-Inside (Mark 7:14-23)
A striking theme in these Lenten readings is the relationship between who we are on the outside and who we are on our insides. What both the practices and spirit of Lent intend is to draw these two realms closer together.
A Vincentian View: Almsgiving
The word “eleémosuné” is probably not in most people’s everyday vocabulary. I wrote my master’s dissertation on this Greek word at The Catholic University of America.
Conversations (2 Samuel 7:18-29)
“Conversation” is a word with an instructive derivation. The term comes from “con” (with) and “versation” (exchange), highlighting interaction and engagement.
A Vincentian View: Salt of the Earth
To be the “salt of the earth” means to give flavor, preserve, and purify the world through the Gospel. It involves influencing others positively, drawing out the best in them, and remaining firm in faith. It means serving courageously, especially the poor and marginalized, despite effort, resistance, and cost.
Virtue: The Readiness to Follow
The angel Gabriel delivers a message that not only does God favor her, but that she is soon to conceive and bear a Son. Mary’s initial reaction is to “ponder” these words, seeking to comprehend their significance.
A Vincentian View: The Importance of Beginnings
When we celebrate the foundation of the Vincentian community on January 25th, we can be attentive to the fact that it occurs on the Solemnity of the Conversion of St. Paul. Both events direct our attention to important beginnings and I like to think of them together.
Keeping Focus (John 3:22-30)
In an article about personality, the author used the expression “ego asset.” It was referring to the way in which one individual can cash in on the accomplishments of another.
