by Return to Me: 2020 Lenten Reflections by Holy Cross University
Gospel Reading: Ex 12:1-8, 11-14; Ps 116; 1 Cor 11:23-26; John 13:1-15
In 1977, looking onto the horizon of life after graduation from Holy Cross, I pondered the future that seemed vastly open with endless potential while also seasoned with a tinge of anxiety to choose the best next step. Growing up in an era of social unrest, the appeal and adventure of service through Peace Corps, VISTA or Jesuit Volunteer Corps appealed to me.
Looking at several choices, I was torn as to which to take. Two competed: Work with migrant farmers in the Appalachian region or teach in a poorly resourced high school in New Jersey. I sought counsel with Rev. Bob Manning, S.J. at Holy Cross. After carefully listening to my conflicting reasons for each, his wisdom was elegant in its clarity: Give from what you have been given. You have been given the gift of a good education. In the privilege of that gift you have developed your mind, your skills, your heart and character. There is a crying need in Newark. Serve from the gift you have been given.
To be of service to others, the metaphorical washing of feet today, is the ongoing miracle of that Holy Thursday night I now see every day through my work with the Ignatian Volunteer Corps. IVC is a Jesuit founded, lay service corps for people who in their retirement years wish to find fulfilling purpose and give from the riches of experience, education, professional careers and personal wisdom. They give from what they have been given and in doing so, discover a love that is beyond measure. Lives transform. Christ lives.