This past week we also celebrated the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. We were asked in a special way to unite with our Christian brothers and sisters to pray for unity and peace in the world. In our desire for unity, we are called to respect the fundamental dignity of the human person and hope to see that dignity reflected in all God’s children. This respect for God’s children is reflected in the work of the Mustard Seed Communities (MSC). Mustard Seed was founded by Msgr. Gregory Ramkissoon, a Catholic priest in Jamaica. MSC started in Jamaica and expanded to Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Zimbabwe. It cares for several hundred children with special physical and mental health needs, many of whom have been abandoned. Pope Francis stated, “We need to see each child as a gift to be welcomed, cherished, and protected.” In another address to children with special needs, he stated, “Each one of us has a treasure inside. If we keep it inside, it just stays inside. If we share it with others, the treasure multiplies itself. Don’t hide the treasure that you all have.” Mustard Seed strives to reveal this treasure and love and protect the most vulnerable of our children. It strives to focus on these children as gifts from God. MSC also manages a number of community outreach programs to combat poverty and provide educational opportunities to local populations.
Saint Brigid Parish supports MSC primarily through its spiritual and financial assistance. Our parishioners also participate in mission trips to assist in the construction of appropriate housing for the children in need. Some of our parishioners have also adopted children from the various communities of Mustard Seed. Representatives of MSC will be available after the Masses this weekend to answer questions about the Community and the work it does. Please prayerfully consider supporting MSC as we stand united with the least of our brothers and sisters.