In this third week of Ordinary Time, the readings continue to reflect the themes of encouragement to faith communities and challenges to embrace what is new so that we may maintain what is sacred. Please consider writing your own responses to the readings or reflection questions below, or to reply to other peoples’ contributions. Also, if you know of a person, either religious or lay person, who has modeled the Xaverian way, and wish to share their story, please feel free to add to the comments section.
The Xaverian Charism calls us to fall in love with God each day. On some days this is quite natural, and extremely difficult on others. I suspect for those of us who pursue a spiritual journey, most days fall somewhat on a continuum between the two extremes. Motivation for stepping into the unknown may be in short supply on any given ordinary day. This is where grace comes in. People who follow the Xaverian way are empowered by five values which help us bear witness to the Charism. The values are: Simplicity, Compassion, Humility, Zeal, and Trust. The values do not exist in isolation and together gives us and our communities a beacon, especially when we are reluctant or fearful. As you read today’s Scriptures and the profile of Brother Raymond Hoyt, CFX, think about the value of Trust and its power to animate us, even on the most ordinary of days. (Painting below “Jesus Lamp Under a Bushel”)
Next, read and reflect upon pages 2 and 3 the Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers.
(Above photo of Brother Raymond Hoyt, CFX)
- Read the passage from the Letter to the Hebrews and pages 2 and 3 from the Fundamental Principles together. How do the words and messages in the Fundamental Principles reflect what is revealed in the Scripture, especially about the value of Trust?
- Why is Trust so essential to following through on Jesus’ command to not to hide one’s “lamp” or inner light, as well as his admonition about the effects of unconditional giving of self?
- Read the text and view the video on the life of Br. Raymond Hoyt, CFX. How did he reflect the Xaverian Charism in daily life, especially witnessing to the value of Trust?
Ordinary and Unspectacular in the Liturgical Year 
Mr. Brett Davis at Mount Saint Joe is model Xaverian educator. He is kind, compassionate and knows his subject. Mr. Davis has a great rapport with his students, inside and outside of the classroom. He cares about his student’s academic progress, but more importantly, he cares about their overall growth and development. His students are more than young men in his classroom, they are all unique individuals all with different stories.