Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.
–John 20: 21
Remember that when the disciples heard these words, they were in hiding behind four walls. Jesus speaks the same words to us today. We are not meant to stay behind the four walls of our parish churches or cathedrals. We are to take the good news out into the world. Indeed, the laity is called to change the temporal order, out of disorder and into the Realm of God.
God hears our thoughts: “The task is too huge;” “I barely hav enough time in my day as it is now;” “Surely God must have meant someone else;” “I will get to it when I have finished fill in the blank.” Do you see that walls do not have to be made of brick and mortar?
If we do not do it, who will? God believes we can do it. In the many weeks of this Lenten season, the Works of Mercy ministries active here at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral have been highlighted. They are wonderful points of light and offer a way to get involved with other parishioners in causes greater than ourselves; a way to step outside the box and bring hope to a world of hurt. They are listed on our website www.raleighcathedral.org
For Cathedral Parish: Our current ministries are not a conclusive list. If you have been touched by a cause and want to bring it to the Cathedral parish, let me know of your interest at socialconcern@hnojnc.org. Let’s make it happen.
We are all born to do great things but we have to believe it. We have to believe in a realm that cherishes virtue, wisdom, kindness, and merciful love—walls that breathe the Spirit of God.
Divine Mercy.
Loving God,
lead us beyond ourselves
to care and protect,
to nourish and shape,
to challenge and energize
both the life and the world
You have given us.
God of light and God of darkness,
God of conscience and God of courage
lead us through this time.
Lead us beyond fear, apathy, and defensiveness,
to new hope in You and to hearts full of faith and willingness to be sent. Amen.
(Prayer adapted from http://monasteriesoftheheart.org)
Barbara Molinari Quinby, MPS, Director
Office of Human Life, Dignity, and Justice Ministries
Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral Raleigh, NC