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Most
of us are aware that Pope John Paul has been moving the process
for beatification very quickly, beatifying 1,290 during his papacy.
Some were very well known, but many were from the ranks of those
who served others with little notoriety outside of their countries,
or even geographical regions. So it was with Blessed Gaetano
Errico. The cheering crowds in St. Peter's Square on April
14 were most likely decendents of those in the small towns and villages
of southern Italy who encountered Fr. Errico as a kind, gentle and
caring priest. One who never failed to remind them of God's
infinite love and forgiveness…one who never turned away from the
most abandoned, the most sinful, and those who were reviled by society.
Certainly, the congregation he founded has now reached to
several continents, but what ultimately led to his beatification,
came about in his service within a relatively small region on this
earth. It is an inspiration to all of us, to remember that
we are called to serve, to follow the example of Jesus and Mary,
in all things, in all ways, in everyday life. Each thing we
do, no matter how small, how humble, how "un-far reaching"
it may seem, can glorify God if---if we offer it to God out of a
true and abiding love. Truly the Holy Father is trying to
lead us to embrace the example of humble duty and commitment Fr.
Errico and so many others he has beatified have exemplified.
May we hold this message within our hearts and may it keep us faithful
and joyful in all we do each day.
God bless you and keep you always,
Father Anthony, M.SS.CC.
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