“When all the people were baptized, and Jesus was at prayer
after likewise being baptized, the skies opened and the Holy Spirit
descended on Him in visible form like a dove. A voice from heaven was
heard to say, ‘You are my beloved Son. On You my favor rests.’”
-Luke 3:21-22
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January 12, 2014
Baptism of the Lord
Dear John,
The celebration of the Baptism of the Lord on Sunday points us in
the right direction. It reminds us of two things. One, and most
important, that God is faithful to His promises. God remains with us and
will never leave us. Secondly, the Baptism of the Lord reminds us that
we who have been baptized, made promises to serve God and our neighbors
generously, lovingly and with perseverance. One way to carry out our
baptismal promises is to continue to pray for the people of Haiti, but
also to continue with aid such as the health care which CMMB has been
instrumental in providing.
Today also is the fourth year anniversary of the earthquake that
devastated Haiti. International aid, including aid from Catholic Medical
Mission Board, has been sent into Haiti since that tragedy. Yet there
is always the danger of “donor fatigue” and we must not let this happen.
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God of all Creation, as we reflect on the Haitian earthquake, please
bless all those affected by natural disaster. Help each victim to have
eyes that see progress, strength to start each day and find comfort in
times of loneliness and peace in your presence. Please also bless those
of Catholic health care, see the needs of the communities affected, and
respond.
Amen
-Catholic Health Association (CHA)
Rev. Peter Schineller, S.J., CMMB Board of Directors
PS: Learn more about CMMB’s work in Haiti, including our first CHAMPS site
in Cotes-de-Fer. |
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