| Greetings! Is it an understatement to say that Fr. Ray shared some pretty big news last weekend? While the news may have been unexpected, Fr. Ray invited us take a peek into the process that has lead him to this life altering decision. One of the first words he mentioned was discernment, and the fact that it did not end for him when he became a priest, but rather intensified. His discernment, his ‘listening to God’s still, small voice’ has lead him to joining the Augustinians. As many students have commented, Fr. Ray’s decision is bittersweet. They speak for many of us as they note that they are saddened by his leaving our faith community, but are happy for him and inspired by his willingness to listen and follow God’s continuing call. And they are spot on, Fr. Ray’s discernment is notable as it also inspires all of us to discernment. Discernment requires one to be attentive to God’s voice and direction as we choose how to act, who to be, and what to do. We trust that God is constantly calling us, that we can hear his calling, and that we should take action in response to his calling. No matter our state in life, from school aged youth, retiree, college student, middle aged parent, to young professional, we all engage in discernment. We are all calledto discernment, as we all have many choices to make every day. Some are minor and routine, others are larger ‘life’ choices. | Discernment Prayer God our Father, You have a plan for each of us, you hold out to us a future full of hope. Give us the wisdom of your Spirit, so that we can see the shape of your plan in the gifts you have given us. And in the circumstances of our daily lives, give us the freedom of your Spirit, to seek you with all our hearts, and to choose Your Will above all else. We make this prayer though Christ our Lord. Amen. |
As St. Ignatius put it: “our one choice should be this: I want and I choose what better leads to God’s deepening life in me.”
Peace,
Sal
Peace,
Sal
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