TRUST IN GOD’S GREATER PLAN

Earlier this week, I was disconcerted and mourned the passing of four extraordinary women who dedicated their lives to their families and the Church. I have had the pleasure of knowing them for many years. Their strong faith and service have left an indelible mark on our Church community and families. Reflecting on their lives reminds me of the beautiful qualities of sacrifice, devotion, and the power of prayer.

Each of these women represented a unique aspect of faith and determination. One dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the Church - especially in women’s ministry and supporting the poor. Another was a pious teacher and mother - firm in instilling discipline and moral values in her own children and students. The third woman was a pillar for the Indigenous community - ensuring that the seed of faith grew and flourished among generations of her village. The last was a loving and enduring mother - whose quiet strength and sacrifice really showed her deep love and care for her children and grandchildren.

Despite the challenges they faced, their faith consistently uplifted them. They carried hearts overflowing with love, listened intently to those in need, and were always ready to lend a helping hand. Each experienced tough times and disappointments, yet their commitment never wavered. They discovered unique ways to share their witness to Christ each day.

Their faith brings to mind the story of Hannah. In her moments of deep sorrow and distress, she turned to God and poured out her heart in prayer, saying, “I am a woman deeply troubled... I have been pouring out my soul before the Lord” (1 Samuel 1:15). Just like Hannah, these four amazing women faced their own challenges, yet they stayed strong in spirit, prayer, and trust in the Lord. Their prayers were fervent, and their commitment never wavered. They truly understood that true strength comes from God and that they could positively impact their lives and communities through prayer and dedication! May the souls of these women rest in peace, and may their legacy inspire and shine in the hearts of those they have touched - as well as others - to live lives of love, service and prayer.

This March, Pope Francis invites us to pray for families in crisis. Many families today encounter division, struggle and brokenness. In our Church, we have placed broken flower pots, stones, dry leaves and branches before the altar – symbols of our struggles and brokenness. Yet, these elements are wrapped in beautiful purple and gold cloth. The purple represents Lent - a time for renewal, while the gold reminds us of the Jubilee Year of Hope - a wonderful call from God for forgiveness, reconciliation and healing. The ray of light surrounding the wrapped cloth represents hope.

Let us embrace this opportunity for hope and become a source of healing through our own struggles and disappointments. As we welcome this special season of Lent and the Jubilee Year, let’s reach out for reconciliation, offer love, and remain steadfast in our faith - trusting in God’s greater plan for all of us!