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. 

Today’s readings recognize the need to be at peace with the realities of progress or achievements in our lifetimes. The benchmarks of our growth or what we help build are not always obvious and most of us toil in anonymity. Can we accept the belief that regardless, we are loved, always have been, and always will be, and that actual joy comes from not only living that reality, but sharing it unselfishly with others, without expectation of reward?

(Photo below of Xaverian Brothers and Staff of the Ryken Centre of Hope in Bungoma, Kenya 2019)

Here are the readings for Friday, January 31 from the Letter to the Hebrews and from the Gospel of Mark.

Next, read and reflect upon page 9 the Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers.

(Above photo of Brother Marcellus Feeley CFX, greeting Cardinal Cushing at the dedication of Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood, MA in 1963)

1. In the end, all of our achievements and monuments to our time on earth will disappear. How does the message in the letter to the Hebrews and the Fundamental Principles help us come to terms with this reality?
2. Read the obituary of Brother Marcellus Feeley on pages 74-75 of the Xaverian Brothers Menology. He was steeped in tradition but also lived a life of innovation and embraced technology. How can we have a similar vision of stepping into what is new and be willing to let go of control of this vision by sharing it with others, knowing they may take it into the future?