How can I, on this Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter—where the Gospel reminds me “upon this rock I will build my #Church”—live out Pope Francis’s vision of missionary renewal from Evangelii Gaudium and his call in Laudato si’ to dialogue with all people about our common home, while also heeding the Synod on Synodality’s invitation for the entire Church to foster communion and mission, as I lean on Perezvon, our Maremma Sheepdog who’s the “rock” of The Glenn, and simultaneously pray for a miracle for my son Daniel through the intercession of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen—even as I remain open to God’s will by prepaying for his funeral arrangements❓
Gospel
Lectio Divina on “Church“
The Church has always been my foundation, the place where I have sought truth, comfort, and guidance. Through its teachings, I have come to understand the depth of faith and the importance of trusting in God’s plan. Yet, as I navigate the reality of my son Daniel’s illness, I find myself questioning how the Church truly walks with those who suffer, how it embraces those who long for miracles while preparing for the unknown.
Pope Francis calls for a Church that is missionary, open to renewal, and engaged in dialogue with the world. I have strived to live this call, seeking to be a witness in my own life, both in my prayers for Daniel and in the daily work at The Glenn. Whether tending to our land or relying on the steady presence of Perezvon, our livestock guardian dog, I see reflections of the Church’s role—to protect, to nurture, and to remain steadfast even in the face of uncertainty.
review its own experience and identify the steps to be taken to live communion, realise
participation and promote the mission that Jesus Christ entrusted to the Church.”
The Synod on Synodality reminds us that the Church must be a place of communion and mission, a home for all who seek Christ. Yet, I wrestle with my own place within it, feeling both embraced by its universal teachings and distanced by the reluctance of some to acknowledge the miraculous. Am I to wait in quiet obedience, or am I called to speak boldly of my longing for Daniel’s healing through the intercession of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen❓
At The Glenn, I have built my life upon faith, much like the Church itself is built upon Peter’s confession. I remain open to God’s will, making practical preparations for Daniel’s future while still believing in the possibility of divine intervention. My trust is not in the shifting sands of human understanding but in the firm foundation of God’s providence.
Despite my questions, despite the uncertainties, I stand firm in my faith. Just as Jesus entrusted Peter with the keys to the Kingdom, I must entrust my fears and hopes to Him, knowing that His plans are greater than my own. In this trust, I find my strength, and in this faith, I find my home—
In my Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, I wrote to all the members of the Church with the aim of encouraging ongoing missionary renewal. In this Encyclical, I would like to enter into dialogue with all people about our common home.
FROM PARAGRAPH 3 ENCYCLICAL LETTER LAUDATO SI’ OF THE HOLY FATHER FRANCIS ON CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME