A line in the famous prayer of St. Francis reads, “…it is in giving that we receive…”. I’ve found this to be so true since I began walking the path of missionary discipleship in Africa five years ago. From the legendary Igbo hospitality to the inspirational witness of joy even in suffering, I can truly say I have received more than I’ve given in my new missionary life.
My colleague, Sr. Racheal Ulor, MOJ, visited Chicago recently to show that HEAL’s mission of giving isn’t a one way street. She volunteered for the Knights of Columbus annual “Tootsie Roll Drive”, to benefit the mentally disabled, in gratitude for the Knights co-sponsoring HEAL’s 5th Annual Benefit. She said, “I felt like I was returning to Americans what I received from them on behalf of my people.”
While in Chicago, Sr. Racheal gave back at every opportunity. She stayed with my friend, John Heybach, founder and director of Altus Academy, a Catholic middle school for poor families on Chicago’s west side. John brought Sr. Racheal to school each day to work with the students. “I experienced the joy of giving selflessly in the little time I had at Altus Academy”, she said.
At the HEAL Benefit, during the appeal phase, Sr. Racheal performed an Igbo cultural dance commonly used at Nigerian social events to garner free will offerings. In this sharing of her culture as a form of self-giving, Racheal inspired our guests to give even more. She said, “I left the benefit feeling I have companions in the midst of great challenges in Nigeria, Africa, and the world.”
Indeed it is true that it is in giving that we receive. I take comfort in the fact that you and I have received great blessings from those we serve in Jesus’ name through HEAL!