St. Sharbel Makhluf

FOCAL POINT:

“Above all, we strive to acquire internal mortification, which includes recollection, silence and the awareness of God’s presence. These forms of mortification are all the more necessary considering the fact that we are called to the apostolic life.” (Con. 81)

Deceased:

Fr. Henry Panfil, 1971, Fontana, USA
Fr. John Bocian, 1974, Woodstock, USA
Fr. Theodore Klopotowski, 1976, Chicago, USA
Fr. Paul Balcer, 1986, Homestead, USA
Br. John Traynor, 1992, Kitchener, Canada

Birthday:

Fr. Manuel Williams, 1957, USA

1. For our members in the missions, especially in Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria and Tanzania.
2. For the Maronite Monks of Lebanon who celebrate St. Sharbel, recognizing his efforts to unite Christians and Muslims in peace.
3. For vocations to our Congregation.

FURTHER REFLECTION:

“The changes taking place in society and the decrease in the number of vocations is weighing heavily on the consecrated life in some regions of the world. … The trials of the present do not take away from their merits and the positive results of their efforts.” (Vita Consecrata, 63)