Q U I C K S C A N

Readers reflect on Friar Jack’s musings

by Friar Jim Van Vurst, O.F.M.

Dear Readers: Fortunately, I was able to find a photo of the mosaic of St. Francis, which I wrote about last month. We had many, many requests. The artist for the mosaic (more than 250,000 pieces) was Abraham Rattner, who was teaching at the University of Michigan at the time. It was erected in 1954 on the outside wall of St. Leonard College, where I studied theology and was ordained in 1961. Also, check below for some of the wonderful reflections sent in by our many readers.

– Friar Jim Van Vurst, O.F.M.

Dear Friar Jim: I believe that God’s way of speaking to us varies, although very often it is through others. Today, your message about the St. Francis mosaic spoke to me and helped me to see life a little differently. I have been reflecting lately on how life changes and suddenly you realize you are far removed from where you once were (figuratively and physically). For most of us the change is gradual, but at times it is sudden. In the past several years, I experienced a move thousands of miles from what had been home, the loss of my mother and the loss of my sister. I like the analogy you make to the mosaic, and will think of my life in those terms. As I continue on my life journey, I will recognize that with God I am building my own mosaic. Thank you for your wonderful reflection. Claire

Dear Friar Jim: This was a most wonderfully written article. There are so many people that go rushing along and do not see their lives as beautiful or, more importantly, as a “journey in Christ.” Your article has greatly illustrated this. It is so inspirational that I would like to know if I may share it with our parish. Thank you for your time, e-mails and wonderful articles. May God bless you. Debbi

Dear Friar Jim: Thank you for this beautiful piece on how colored mosaics can relate to the sadness and the joys of our lives, our sins and the saving graces from our sweet Lord, and the stark difference between the dark times and the dazzling pure! Caron

Friar Jack’s Inbox

Readers respond to Friar Jack’s musings on “Philippine Diary: How St. Anthony Came to Sampaloc.”

Dear Friar Jack: From my first memory, St. Anthony of Padua has been part of my life. St. Anthony is and will always be part of it. He’s found items, helped in serious health issues, in making decisions. I’ve been chided on not trusting in our Lord and God and putting my faith in a “saint.” I believe that our Lord entrusted Anthony to lead us to our God. MaryAnn

Dear MaryAnn: There is no contradiction between trusting in our Lord and trusting in the saints. Each time we pray the Apostles’ Creed, we say, “I believe… in the communion of saints.” May the Holy Spirit always help you to trust in God and in St. Anthony and the other saints who intercede for us! Again, I thank all who sent e-mails this month and ask God’s blessing and love upon all of you who read my E-spirations. Friar Jack

Send your feedback to friarjack@americancatholic.org.

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