In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Earlier this month we celebrated the feast day of Saint Teresa of Calcutta, better known as Mother Teresa.
Mother Teresa is widely known as one of the greatest humanitarians of the 20th century who helped the sick and the dying in some of the poorest neighbourhoods in the world. Her simple service touched the hearts of millions of people of all faiths. In 2016, Mother Teresa was declared to be a Saint by our Church. She is now known as Saint Teresa. We remember her courage and kindness in working with the poor and sick on the streets of India.
Saint Teresa was a very courageous woman and she was also kind. Sometimes it takes courage to be kind. Sophocles wrote, “Kindness gives birth to kindness.” How might one act of kindness lead to more kindness from others? [pause]
As we reflect on the work of Saint Teresa, we ask God to help us to treat each other with kindness as we work together this year.
Let us pray using the words that Jesus taught us:
Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
Amen.
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.