The Monthly Note
July and August 2018
At the time of writing this summer letter, the majority of the countries of the world have their eyes turned to Moscow, where the 2018 Football World Cup is taking place. These (soccer) competitions bring together the thirty-two best national selections.
All international competitions, these or the Olympic Games, remind me of St. Paul's recommendation: ‘’Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.’’ (I Corinthians 9, 24-25)
Could not our summer be a salutary time to evaluate our Christian life, as well as the victory offered to us : life with God and his family, for eternity?
On my side, my religious life takes a new direction: my superiors give me a sabbatical year; my health leaves me no choice. It will also be a privileged time to rebuild my strengths, even on a spiritual level. Life grips us and we run a lot. This is done often at the expense of our spiritual life, which we sometimes take for granted. However, it needs to be nurtured and enriched in a strong personal relationship with Christ and his Gospel of salvation.
I am therefore completing this second four-year term at St. Jude’s Apostolic Works (1997-2001 and 2014-2018) with much recognition. Recognition to my superiors who entrusted me with this pastoral service. Recognition to my team, Mrs. Gisèle Hébert and Mr. Tony Cicci, good and dedicated employees who have all my confidence. Recognition also to the Friends of St. Jude and the Praying Team of St. Jude, a real spiritual family in which we take care of each other. That is why I recommend myself to your prayer.
Dear Friend of St. Jude, the Dominicans and the Praying Team of St. Jude continue to pray for you, your prayer intentions and your families. We do it fraternally at the 2:30 Mass, every Thursday of St. Jude. Be confident, there is hope!
Fr. Henri de Longchamp, o.p., Director