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“Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31

“L-o-v-e” is a simple word, but rich and layered in meaning. These four magical letters, written in this precise order, define God’s relationship to us and our relationship to one another. Could anything be more uncomplicated? In the end, it all comes down to love.

My thoughts on Valentine’s Day are probably a lot like yours. Today we celebrate all expressions of God’s love: in our friendships and marriages… through the caring partnerships forged in brotherhood and sisterhood… in religious life… and through the teachings of the Gospel itself.

Thanks to Christ’s example, we understand that the richest experiences of human fulfillment come from loving one another. We saw this lesson expressed time and again over the past year—expressions of caring and love from our frontline healthcare workers that knew no bounds. Maybe you are one of those workers, or perhaps a caregiver who was called to serve in a new or unexpected way.

Friend, when we give ourselves over to someone else—freely and without expectation of any return—those are moments when we grow as disciples of Our Lord. So happy Valentine’s Day. Honor the gift of love with every special remembrance—traditional or otherwise. Then celebrate all year long by being an imitator of Christ.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Father Raymond J. Finch, M.M.

February 14, 2021

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Love incarnate, son of the Most High,

word made flesh and splendor of the Father,

You came to us through the Immaculate

Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary and

revealed God’s love for the world and

to the world by becoming human like us.

Help us to walk in your footsteps

along the way of love

for all our brothers and sisters

for all creatures, large and small

and for the whole Earth,

but above all, for you my God,

who made all things out of love

for us.

Lord, accept the tears and sighs

of those hearts wounded or broken,

hearts hardened or hurt

for love forsaken or betrayed.

You Who loved Your friends till the end

and know the pain of betrayal and abandonment,

fill us anew with Your grace that forgiveness,

mercy, and compassion might flow like a mighty stream

from Your most sacred heart to all of ours.

Amen

Prayer by Maryknoll Missioner, Father Joseph Veneroso

ABOUT MARYKNOLL

We are a Catholic Society of priests and brothers based in the United States. We are dedicated to missionary work overseas in over 20 countries. Additionally, we animate Catholics in the United States to follow their own baptismal call to share God’s compassion and love with the poor, the sick, and all those in need.

OUR GENERAL COUNCIL

L-R Tom O'Brien, Ray Finch, Joe Everson, Russ Feldmeier

(Fr. Lance P. Nadeau, Fr. James M. Lynch, Fr. Timothy O. Kilkelly, Fr. Juan Montes Zúñiga)

The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers is overseen by our General Council, led by Superior General Rev. Lance P. Nadeau, M.M.

OUR FOUNDERS

L-R Tom O'Brien, Ray Finch, Joe Everson, Russ Feldmeier

(Our Co-Founders Father Price and Father Walsh)

PLACES WE SERVE

EVANGELIZATION, PARISHES, AND PROJECTS

USA

STORIES OF MISSION

(Africa) Education and Formation of African Clergy

The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers Africa Region will provide tuition assistance to African clergy, male and female religious at institutes of higher education or specialized training. Read More

Stories of Our Global Mission

The calling of a lifetime

The life of a Maryknoll missioner is challenging, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding. Follow your baptismal call to mission by sharing God’s compassion with the poor, the sick, and people most in need.