Commentary

As the day progressed, I became keenly aware of the HUGE difference our schools possess: faith in God.

About 1,600 years ago, the brilliant Doctor of the Church St. Ambrose admonished those of wealth who clung to their sense of entitlement: “You are not making a gift of what is yours to the poor man, but you are giving him back what is his.

As I sit here looking at the blinking cursor, I once more hesitate to explain what is in my heart since I’ve been given a new assignment in ministry. The two years that I have spent at Assumption College for Sisters have been grace-filled. The student Sisters here are absolutely amazing.

As I write this article, I’m packing to come back to Harrisburg! Yes, I did say that! I am indeed coming back to my beloved Harrisburg Diocese.

I grew up in northeastern New Jersey. While I know that those born in Pennsylvania really doubt that New Jersey could be beautiful, I grew up in a truly wonderful area full of uncharted woods, old-growth trees, lakes and streams and even a watershed!

In December, Assumption College welcomed two first-year students. Since they arrived during the winter from a tropical country, they lacked the proper winter clothing for northeast New Jersey.

Many of you know that when I was a child, I was in a very serious car accident that required me to undergo several reconstructive surgeries on my knees.

Bishop Timothy C. Senior has released a sweeping pastoral vision letter for the Diocese of Harrisburg, calling clergy, consecrated men and women, and lay faithful alike to renew their commitment to the Gospel and “stir into flame” the gifts of faith bestowed through Baptism and Confirmation.

Many, many years ago, I was speaking with my very first spiritual director. He was a Franciscan priest stationed in Ringwood, N.J.

Most of us do not begin the day thinking about papal encyclicals. That is understandable. Yet I believe Pope Leo’s new encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, speaks directly to concerns many people in our community already feel.