Easter time greetings and blessings to each of you,
Elements of surprise, delight, rapid responding and a willingness to
re-organize capture my experience of what occurred in me during a brief phone call while I was actively planning my return trip to Melbourne. I have been serving in the Mission of Cabrini Australia for the past 13 years.
Sr Barbara Staley, our General Superior, called me saying there was a need at The National Shrine of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini for a pastoral presence. Immediately, my soul leapt in joy; the phrase “pastoral presence” caused my joy.
The word “need” also struck me - it is key for an MSC, Cabrini Sister. It certainly has been both at the center of many of my small decisions as well as major life- altering discernments.
Things worked out in favor of me coming to Chicago to serve as a pastoral presence in the National Shrine of St FX Cabrini for two months. In mid-June I will go to Rome to assist in the liturgical work for the General Chapter.
I’m Sr Sharon Casey, an MSC for the last 50 years. Throughout these years pastoral presence was often part of the activity in various ministries yet, studying and applying Pastoral Skills, offered me the insight and honed my relational skills enabling me to be a companion / pastoral presence to those on their own sacred journeys. I am pleased to be present here during the Easter and Pentecost seasons.
The Easter Sunday Mass at the Shrine was attended by many people which is uplifting. It supports our cornerstone belief that Jesus conquered death and rose in glory. He also remained on earth appearing to the Apostles and disciples through locked doors and in unexpected places in order to help them experience what he taught them while with Him.
Jesus is alive! We know He shows Himself to us and comes to us in myriad ways! On Easter Tuesday, Jesus arrived in an unexpected large group of Pilgrims. The Shrine staff was surprised, delighted and rapidly reorganized our plans to be present to these delightful men and women. Let us continue to welcome Jesus in the circumstances of our lives.
May the Peace of Jesus Christ be with you!
Sister Sharon Casey, MSC
Pastoral Associate