There is a lot of lively exchange going on and good communication as we conclude this homily series on “Everyday heroes.” I am especially pleased with the questions asked of me from time to time. The feedback is great because we need to be discussing the word of God. It is wonderful to know people are listening and that sometimes I end up pushing people’s buttons and pushing the envelope. The Word of God needs to get under our skin if it is to take root.
For example, one person mentioned that the Spanish word for encounter is “Encuertro.” Clark University’s Master’s in International Development program, (of which I am a graduate) is open to 20 students; 10 Americans and the other ten must be from foreign countries. It is an intentional international “Encuertro” so that we encounter people who are different from us in order to gain an understanding of who we are who inhabits this world we share. It is at Clark that I encountered so many different points of view, thus widening of my perspective on so many life issues. Someone after Mass asked how he can help broaden his dad’s perspective since he has never been beyond 128!
Another person asked, “How can Pope Francis, who lives in a walled city tell us not to build walls and to build bridges?” I am sure many others have the same question. My interpretation is that walls and bridges are not physical structures they are about words. We build walls by our words and actions. When we bully and use terms like “criminals, rapists, fat, ugly, stupid, invaders, poor, homeless,” we build walls not bridges. Bridge-building phrases are found in the gospel: feeding hungry, clothing naked, sheltering the homeless, welcoming the stranger, how can I help, etc.
The walled Vatican City is not what it seems. The outstretched arms of Christ are represented by the Bernini Colonnade. Inside the walls, you will find the bridge-building works of our Catholic faith; a homeless cooling and warming center, laundromat, showers, barbershop and beauty shop, medical facilities and more. “Bridges” that enable people to overcome unfortunate circumstances and give them a second chance.
Let’s keep the conversation moving and work at becoming “Everyday Heroes.” Faithful disciples of Jesus Christ; eager to make a difference in the world!