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“He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”

Acts Chapter10 Verse 38

Here’s a suggestion for the early days of January: Let’s make 2020 a “Francis Year.” If I sound mysterious, I don’t mean to. Our Holy Father wants us to be inspired to greatness, constantly renewed in the Spirit. So let’s check in with him and see how we can make this New Year our personal best as missioners.

“Ask yourselves this question,” says Pope Francis. “How often is Jesus inside and knocking at the door to be let out…?”

That’s a very personal question. But one worth pondering. We can start our spiritual check-up with those who have always meant the most to us: our families. This is where relationships are born and cared for—and where misunderstandings can cause the most hurt. In one of his talks on family life, Our Holy Father said something I’ve never forgotten: “A healthy family life requires frequent use of three phrases: “May I?” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry.” Never, never, never end the day without making peace.”

Friend, in today’s Gospel Jesus acknowledged his call to serve when he received the gift of baptism. Pope Francis reminds us that through baptism each of us is called to be a missionary disciple, too. From that day forward we were anointed to do good and witness the joy of the our faith. So with these blessings, I wish you what I’m calling a “Francis Year.” Our Holy Father keeps things simple. He says, “Whether the New Year will be good or not depends on us choosing to do good each day.” May each of us choose to do good and pass it on.

 

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Raymond J. Finch, M.M.

 

Prayer for The Baptism of the Lord

At Your baptism, Lord Jesus,

the Holy Spirit set Your heart ablaze

with love for sinners, the poor,

the oppressed, and those on the margins

of society, the church, or perhaps even

our friends and family.

Make our relationships healthy and holy

through Your spirit of reconciliation.

Give us the courage and humility

to ask “May I…?”

the strength to say “I’m sorry”

and the wisdom to say “Thank you”

to all people through whom

You bless and fill my life.

May my baptism compel me

to cross every border,

to travel any distance, great or small,

to leave the comfort of this world

to seek, find, and share with all

Your gospel of peace, mercy and truth.

Amen.

Prayer by Father Joseph R Veneroso, M.M.

 

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.

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