Pope Francis, December 25, 2013

From a Jesuit Seminarian who stayed at the Casa . . .

“I went to teach catechism with Sisters Angeles and Teresa in the Santa Julia Colonia. It is far off and known for its high crime rate. Many houses are built precariously along the hillside, and this colonia has undergone very little development as the years have passed. We visited two hardworking families first. They were very warm and generous to us.”

“We finally reached the Center, a small building with three classrooms and a large field.  The Sisters told of the problems they have had with theft and vandalism even though the rooms are very simple. It was living in extreme poverty or in very desperate situations which led to all this, I thought.”

“I was asked to share my vocation story with the kids and was not sure how they would receive it, my reality being so very different from the one they were living. Certain things are universal, such as love for God and a calling to make something meaningful out of one’s life no matter social status.  The students listened attentively and asked lots of good questions.  At the end of class, we went outside to play soccer, girls versus boys. Girls beat us 11 to 6!  This was a great experience which I can share with my brothers and sisters in Christ.  I am grateful to God and to the Franciscan Missionary Sisters for the priceless work that they do.” Continue reading →