From our pastor, Father Neil Herlihy:
In our first reading today, from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah, the Lord is very clear. He says, “Share your bread with the hungry. Shelter the oppressed and the homeless. Clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own.” And in our gospel today from Matthew, Jesus says, “Your light must shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” These words should resonate with us today.
In these two passages, we clearly see the call of the Lord reach out to our neighbor in need. And that is what the Mustard Seed Community (“MSC”) strives to do. MSC started in Jamaica in 1978 and expanded to Nicaragua in 1999. MSC reaches out to the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. It strives to find the face of Christ in those who they meet. The Community strives to remind us of the fundamental dignity of the human person.
MSC cares for several hundred children with special physical and mental needs, many of whom were abandoned. A majority of them cannot communicate in normal ways. However, through the efforts of trained therapists and loving volunteers, they learn to communicate through other ways. Their leaders remind us that all of these children are made in the image and likeness of God and are a window into knowing and loving Christ in a more personal way.
Saint Leo the Great reminds us that “any time is the right time for charity. Where God finds charity with its loving concern, there He recognizes the reflection of His own Fatherly care.” At this time, we are invited to reflect on these profound words of Saint Leo.
We can increase awareness and support of MSC within our Parish. Through its prayers, mission trips, and in many other ways, Saint Brigid parishioners strive to enhance the Parish’s sense of involvement and commitment to the abandoned and physically and mentally challenged children who are so warmly embraced by MSC staff and volunteers.
Jesus said that whatever we do to the least of our brothers, we do unto Him.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, we have a great opportunity. Through our prayers and support of the work of MSC, we can change many lives for the better, and change our own hearts in the process. We are invited to avail ourselves of this opportunity to assist those truly in need as we continue and persevere on our Christian journey of faith.