I have been so moved by the images of our Holy Father these past days. It was marvelous to see a stadium filled with over 45,000 people all praying and celebrating Mass together, seeing the Pope addressing 25,000 youth and seminarians, and then praying at Ground Zero. The words of Pope Benedict have moved my soul. This is so timely, as I have been in a very sad place lately - adjusting to returning to my profession as a nurse (part-time), coping with almost unrelenting illness, and trying to find my footing and place in the world. I found the following particularly inspiring:
"Friends, again I ask you, what about today? What are you seeking? What is God whispering to you? The hope which never disappoints is Jesus Christ. The saints show us the selfless love of his way. As disciples of Christ, their extraordinary journeys unfolded within the community of hope, which is the Church. It is from within the Church that you too will find the courage and support to walk the way of the Lord. Nourished by personal prayer, prompted in silence, shaped by the Church's liturgy you will discover the particular vocation God has for you. Embrace it with joy. You are Christ's disciples today. Shine his light upon this great city and beyond. Show the world the reason for the hope that resonates within you." (Spoken by Pope Benedict XVI at a youth rally at St. Joseph's Seminary in Yonkers.)
I must remember each day the joyful instruction given by the Pope:
Have Courage!