A visitor's Reflection

At prayers this evening, I noticed that one of the men in the community came to the chapel with dirt on his feet – and that’s an apt symbol of how these days have impressed me. These Marists here in Ranong – professed and lay – walk with the people, they get their feet dirty! I have been touched by their dedication, their sense of hospitality, their goodness, their joy – and their deep faith. They are about the work of Mary.

I have always loved the way that the Second Vatican Council document Gaudium et Spes begins: “the joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the [people] of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, these are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ.” In being with the community here these days, I see these words brought to life, in the good work these Marists – these followers of Christ - do here, and in the life they share.

Being with the community these past few days has been a gift for me. I thank them, and pray God’s continued blessing on them.

Mark with the students in Burmese Learning Center	Mark and Damian

Mark Field, the author, is a Catholic Priest from Hamilton Diocese, New Zealand.

Rotorua Catholic Parishes

C/- St Mary's Parish 40-44

Seddon St ROTORUA 3010