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“Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also for those of others.  Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus…”  (Philippians 2:3-5)

I think of kindness and everyday concern for others in the same way you probably do:  These are the virtues that civilize our time on earth and give us a sense of completeness as caring human beings living the Gospel of compassion.

St. Paul has sound advice for those of us trying to improve our human condition.  Care for one another as Jesus would:  love one another as you love yourself, as God loves you.

When relationships are built on a mutual caring, the outcome is always the same:  give more/get more.  The more a married couple gives to one another in honor and respect, the closer they become.  The more family members accommodate one another’s needs, the stronger the ties.  We can apply our formula to relationships in our parish and neighborhood, and into bigger circles beyond that.  Not surprisingly, the foundation first built at home is often the one we carry with us throughout life.

Today’s Gospel reinforces a second important message that all relationships flourish when we’re honest, especially with ourselves.  We may have a tendency to see faults in others before we see our own.  But Jesus showed us the way:  everyone has the possibility of redemption, even the most sinful among us.  The first step is looking at ourselves honestly and then asking for God’s blessing.   

Friend, our actions can always be a reflection of God’s love if we make it so.  And isn’t that our goal?  The greatest gift we have is the invitation to eternal life, the very gift we celebrate as missioners.  By caring for one another as Jesus has asked, we are giving and receiving in great abundance, and inviting everyone we know to salvation in Christ.

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

Prayer for 4th Sunday, September 27, 2020

Your gospel, Lord Jesus, is a mirror

reflecting back the truth of our world

and the condition of our souls.

Help us see the world aright

and view ourselves with

honesty and humility.

Help us, Lord, to look at others

through Your eyes

to speak to them with Your words

to help them through Your hands

and to love them, if possible,

through Your heart.

Help us to die to ourselves that we

may overcome our selfish ego

and live for others even as You lived for us.

Accept our service and sacrifices

as an offering in spirit and truth

to help You build Your kingdom

here on earth.

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.

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