...return
to Priest's Messages...
 |
A reflection on the mission to New
Orleans, Feb.14-21, 2009.
For me, the mission trip to New Orleans was an opportunity
for me to see and be a part of the Church being the Church,
actively and generously reaching out in the broken places
to mend, to heal. We were given an opportunity to witness
how generosity affects the lives of others, and to wonder
if we have been less generous in the past. One church spokesperson
from the Diocese of Louisiana said that prior to the crisis
of Hurricanes Katrina and Gustav, the Church had not been
mission oriented. Now the programs and services to those
in need have become a dynamic part of how the diocese functions
on a daily basis. It is a hands on approach that was a true
pilgrimage experience. |
I find myself missing the daily opportunity to rise early, share
all meals in common, learn new skills, work hard in community
to serve others. The radical giving with no expectation at all
of return is a handing over of the self, its constant needs and
wants, to give just to give. I miss the remarkable sense of group
effort; I miss the faces and humor and character of those in the
group who made the trip such a transformative event. We were changed
by the work and by all the people we met. God is already at work
there and we were just a small part of how the gospel is indeed
good news for those who are a part of us.
As the priest accompanying the group I listened in new ways
as we broke open the texts for worship, rested deeply in a contemplative
evensong, said grace over meals, offered gifts of T-shirts and
thank you notes to others, wondered about parish communities
willing to turn over their kitchens and church school spaces
for volunteers. I am listening for the Spirit to reveal needs
in our hometowns, calling us into deeper relationships with
God and neighbors in crisis. As I look at the Mardi Gras beads
caught from the parade floats I string memories that are equally
bright and rest on my body. I remember dancing to the music
full of energy from our crew chief's favorites. As we worked
to complete a home for a woman we will never meet I am more
at home in my faith and my vocation.
- The Rev. Dr. Linda Privitera
|
