Dear Friends,

As we prepare ourselves to celebrate next Sunday’s solemn feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God, I invite you to reflect on and embrace the Apostle Paul’s words regarding love, the greatest of the three theological virtues. These inspiring words come to us from the twelfth chapter of the Apostle’s letter to the Christians of Rome.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another, above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low positions. Do not be conceited.

Do not pay evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If you enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

May we all be inspired to grow in our love for God and for each other as we draw near to the great feast of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.

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With prayers.
Hayr Simeon
August 5, 2007