What to Keep?

2016 has been a rough year in many ways, from selling our home and moving, to losing loved ones, to the election of a president. A year filled to overflowing with change.

With so much changing, the question comes up, What do you hold on to?  What do you keep?

I think we should keep what we love the most.

I love when Thanksgiving rolls around. Even if we have had our share of setbacks and disappointments, Thanksgiving reminds us to be grateful for all that Life has given to us...stars, birds, flowers, rain. As well as our family, our friends, and our neighbors.

It's a time to reflect, to take stock of all that we have. 

What are you thankful for? 

What gifts have you been given in your life? When is the last time you said a prayer of thanks?

Who are you thankful for? 

Who has been a gift to you in your life? When is the last time you thanked them?

There is much to be thankful for.

That's what I think I will keep.

Praying for Leaders

When Pope Francis first addressed his followers, he said, "Pray for me."

Jesuit priest and writer Fr. James Martin explained:  

“It’s very common, the most natural thing in the world; and priests, brothers, sisters and bishops do it every day. Including me. We all need prayers and so does the Pope."

Yesterday at my church St. Matthias in Somerset, NJ, we prayed for President-elect Trump.  Here is what we said:

~ For President-elect Donald Trump and all elected officials...that the words of the psalmist may guide their hearts and minds "to lead the people with justice and with equity," upholding the dignity and rights of all people, working steadfastly to build a nation of respect, inclusion, and compassion...we pray...

Some in our faith community raised an eyebrow that we would include such a prayer in our services.

Our pastor's comment was:  What would Francis do?