Rock and Fire

On our first day of pilgrimage, trip leader Lori Helfrich gave us the theme “Rock and Fire.” At reflection later that night, each of us were called to ask ourselves what the “rock” and “fire” was in our own lives--the rock being our foundation, what gives us strength, and the fire being our passion. Too often we get so caught up in the day-to-day struggle that we fail to acknowledge the different influences in our life and enjoy the journey they are taking us on. This exercise challenged the group to reflect on our influences and appreciate their impact on our life.  As we all shared our different stories in small group, I was reminded of a quote from St. Catherine of Siena who said, “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire!” On that first day of pilgrimage we climbed the Saint Michel Chapel, an ancient chapel that overlooks the city which the first sisters would have gone and prayed. It was a beautiful reminder of their humble beginnings and their commitment to faith. Whether you are called to respond to needs in a little city like Le Puy or in the big city of New York, your passions have a purpose. Just as the first Sisters of St. Joseph had their own rock and fire, so do we. Just as the first Sisters set the world on fire by being who God wanted them to be, so can we. Our first night of reflection reminded me to always follow my passions and always be grateful for the people who were put in my path to help me pursue them. Ask yourself today: What is my rock? What is my fire? How are the two interconnected? ​