"Francis, Rebuild My Church, Which As You Can See is in Ruins"

The Cross of San Damiano, through which Our Blessed Lord spoke to St Francis of Assisi, in a way, has much to say about the Church at different points in history. I truly admire the Holy Father, Pope Benedict who is trying valiantly to respond to the echo of the Voice that spoke to St Francis, asking him to, "Repair My Church" or "Rebuild My Church".

I very much think of the work of parish priests, my parish priest being an inspiring example, as being a great witness, a loving and enthusiastic response to those words of Christ, as much as those who feel called to religious life and monasticism. In a way, we are all called to think about those words that Our Blessed Saviour said to St Francis.

This is because God calls us to a radical conversion of life and to live out the true values of the Gospel which, like at most times in history, are counter-cultural and stand up against the values of the World. Our lives, even if we do struggle with our sins, temptations and vices, should be as signs of contradiction to the values of the World, its passing glories and vanities, and most of all, its false and illusory happiness. We know that only Christ can make us truly happy.

So often in history, God has asked people to come forward and boldy witness to those words and do something for Him that rebuilds or repairs the Church. St Francis was a key model and witness of this. St John of the Cross and St Teresa of Avila also were shining examples of reform of monastic life. This divinely-inspired process is continuing - a great work of the Holy Spirit. While numbers to the Priesthood are not growing as much as many would like, many religious communities are thriving, especially those which offer the most strict and orthodox life, such as the Carthusians and the Franciscans.

Now, after years of liturgical stagnation, Pope Benedict XVI, with all of his strength, wisdom and prudence, is trying to guide the Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, towards litugical renewal which will not only strive to see God revered in His Church by His faithful once more, but will also guide the Faithful towards contemplation and the love of God. My feeling is that many vocations will spring from the work of Pope Benedict if it is allowed to flourish and those under his influence respond graciously. We must pray for him and for all the Bishops and Clergy that they will be graced with unity and the desire to see God truly revered and an increase of sound Catholic devotion to fill all of our parishes. And for ourselves too that we may seek God in contemplation and prayer.