CMSWR Summer in Rome 2013

Today Monsignor Thomas Caserta arrived from New York. Although he arrived this morning, he offered Mass and a conference after lunch.

In his homily he reflected on St. Martha. He said that persons can only love us in the capacity that they have and we have to accept that, even if it is not what we want. Likewise, we can only love God and others in the way we are able and we should not try another way (this does not mean we cannot be stretched at times). 

He will be offering us reflections this week on Religious Life as an Eschatological Sign. Our first conference focused on what an Eschatological identity is. The theology of religious life makes clear that we are to be signs of the Kingdom and thus we need to remember who we are. He said we live on the border of eternity and this why people think of heaven when they see us. 

Monsignor offered us 4 Scripture passages that tell us about the kingdom:

1. 1 Corinthians 2:9 "Eye has not seen..."
2. Revelations 4 and 7: Describe the Heavenly Liturgy
3. Revelations 12:10 and following: The great battle between the         angels; and
4. Revelations 21: The New Order--restoration of the right order of     Creation.

Monsignor also tied the vows in with the representation of the Kingdom on this earth: Obedience is not an authority word, but a service word. Chastity is professed because we are taken by love, a love that can only be experienced by sitting in loving Adoration. We are chaste because we have found much. Poverty is a living reminder of what is really worthwhile. It is not what we take, but what we give. He said this contradicts the narcissism and attitude of entitlement that is prevalent in our culture.  

As you may be able to tell, our final week is almost like a retreat. Monsignor will be offering Mass and two conferences a day. Additionally, the Sisters can meet with him individually if they want.

Please be assured of our prayers.