Steer Safely Through the Storm

“To be angry is human; to put an end to one’s anger is Christian.” – St. Jerome

Serving the public is no easy task. Politics can be a dirty business. I am not a political person, but I have seen many politicians find themselves mired in controversy. I have recently read about Giorgio La Pira who passed away in Florence on November 5, 1977. He was the mayor of Florence, Italy, and he left a legacy. Pope Francis declared him Venerable in 2018 and his road to sainthood continues. He would go to mass, speak with the poor, and work towards educating many people. Born in Sicily, he studied law in Florence and stayed there. He convened symposiums and worked for the common good, opposed fascism, yet his legacy lives on.

“We shall steer safely through every storm, so long as our heart is right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God.” – St. Francis de Sales

Ven. Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan was imprisoned in Vietnam for years. He would say mass with what little he had. Wine was smuggled into prison in medicine bottles; breadcrumbs were collected to have enough for the Eucharist. Vigils were kept in the form of adoration. Once I was at a special mass and there was no large host for the priest and I was serving on the altar for him. I scoffed at the situation and the humble priest reminded me of Cardinal Van Thuan who said mass with crumbs sometimes. Christ is present even in the smallest host. I need to remember that. Servant of God Ragheed Aziz Ganni lived in Mosul, Iraq, and as a priest, he was determined to keep the Church open despite the threats. He knew that we cannot live without the Eucharist. It is true. He died for his convictions.

“You know well enough that our Lord does not look so much at the greatness of our actions, nor even at their difficulty, but at the love with which we do them.” – St. Therese of Lisieux

We need to remember others around us. The world situation is never easy, but we must remain faithful. It is a challenge, but it is possible. I follow Pope Leo XIV’s travels all the time, and I try to pay attention to his words. There are always distractions around us, but we cannot lose hope; we cannot give in. There is always a small part of the world where we can make a difference. I organize activities for the international students I work with. I try to invite them to volunteer with me. They might be from various religious backgrounds but helping others is universal. Great saints have made an impact, but many great men and women have also made a silent impact. We need to be strong in the face of adversity. Listening to the readings from the Acts of the Apostles during the Easter Season inspires us with evidence of greatness. Let’s keep our eyes on what is important.

“In tribulation immediately draw near to God with confidence, and you will receive strength, enlightenment, and instruction.” – St. John of the Cross