I remember vividly the day I learned that every Sunday is a “little Easter”. The thought of that just delighted me. To celebrate such a joyous day every week felt like such a gift! I have to say that at St. Bakhita House this Lent, and in the days leading up to this sacred season, we have enjoyed a series of events that feel like little Easters. This is not to say we haven’t experienced our Lenten moments . . . but feelings of joy have permeated and punctuated many a day in our growing community.
For one, we received a new member into our home. This is always time for adjustment, but also brings with it the great gift of growing in love, empathy and compassion. Second, we celebrated our Feast Day to a standing room only Mass, followed by a bountiful feast of 13 different soups provided by generous (and very talented) guests. Third, we were welcomed into the Catholic Memorial High School community at their Lenten assembly and are the blessed recipient of their Lenten Mission. And finally, we just had a lovely visit and received a generous donation from the “Bakhita Boys”, who for the last two years have spent January doing sit-ups to raise funds for our community.
So, as we progress through the Lenten season, we can never forget the cross. It is all too real in the lives of the women survivors of sexual exploitation, as well as in this war torn and suffering world we inhabit. But we do wish everyone some little Easter moments to remind us of the hope of the resurrection and the ability of each of us to relieve some share of suffering in this world.
Peace and love,
