John Kelly works in Dublin, Ireland at St. John Vianney Paarish
The experience at Lavras has been a rich experiennce of SCJ life and ministry. It is good to meet with SCJ's from all over the world and to hear their stories of life and ministry. During our time here we have reflected on our own call and our desire to share our life with others. It is evident that the task of promoting vocations is difficult and, in many ways, a challenge. But in our mutual sharing we are all striving to find new ways of communicating our charism. This gives a great sense hope and reflects the activity of the Holy Spirit in our vocations ministry.
At various stages throughout the Conference the SCJ's present have spoken about the situation in their own Provinces. The religious and social reality is different in each place. The present experience of our South American Provinces, for instance, is very different to that of Northern Europe. However, it is very striking that all the members present are striving to creatively address the situation in their own area. Together we have discussed our charism and our use of language and resources in communicating it. One is left with the image of a rich tapestry of ministry done throughout the world. Beneath this is a strong sense of hope and enthusiasm and a deep desire to share our life with others.
It is interesting to reflect briefly on the promotion of vocations by the Church in Brazil. It strongly promotes the vocation of all people to live the Christian life. Each person is reminded that their personal call comes from God and they are encouraged to ask "what is God asking of me?" This call of God is presented as something dynamic. It is shown to be something which gives life and meaning to the person. In consequence, each person is encouraged to play an active part in building up the Body of Christ. This is then reflected in the parish celebration of the Eucharist. It really is a joyful experience which builds community and gives thanks and praise to God.
Last weekend we went to visit the parish community in Formiga. We met with the parish council. As a community they actively promote the vocation to the priesthood and religious life. It was interesting to see that the young people in the parish are involved in the vocations ministry. They give active support and encouragement to those who are considering the priesthood or religious life. They meet regularly to talk and pray with the young man. They visit his family and accompany the person in his discernment. This means that the young person does not feel alone. This, in my opinon, stands in contrast to the situatiuon at home where the person thinking about priesthood can often feel isolated and become "the odd man out". It strikes me that we must encourage and continually support those who seek to discern their vocation.
We have been reminded too that we should pray constantly for vocations. All of us, our families and friends, can also share in this.
Our work here has been demanding but also deeply
rewarding. It has given us a good sense of our life together as a Congregation
and of our commitment to share our charism with others.