Do we dare?Courage to walk Jesus’ third way

Deborah KentDominican Education Conference Address Siena College Victoria 2011

When we dare…

Gospel and the Tabloid

“We stand at a critical moment in Earth's history, a time when humanity must

choose its future. As the world becomes increasingly interdependent and fragile, the future at once holds great peril and

great promise. To move forward we must recognize that in the midst of a

magnificent diversity of cultures and life forms we are one human family and one Earth community with a common destiny.

We must join together to bring forth a sustainable global society founded on respect for nature, universal human

rights, economic justice, and a culture of peace. Towards this end, it is imperative

that we, the peoples of Earth, declare our responsibility to one another, to the

greater community of life, and to future generations.” - Earth Charter

Walk forth, you poor in spirit, you humble and powerless. Keep going. Don’t be discouraged by your poverty. The reign of God is yours.

Walk forth, you who mourn the victims of war and hunger. Keep going. You will be consoled.

Walk forth, you meek and gentle and nonviolent. Inherit the earth and enjoy the blessing of creation.

Walk forth, you who hunger and thirst for justice. Don’t give up. You will be satisfied. “Justice will roll down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

Walk forth, you merciful. Keep showing mercy in a merciless world. Forgive everyone. Be compassionate to everyone. Show mercy to everyone. Mercy will be yours.

Walk forth, you pure in heart. Keep going. Be filled with the light of peace and see Christ in the poor, in the enemy, in one another.

Walk forth, you who make peace. Keep on going. Speak against war. Organize peace vigils. Write to politicians, demand the troops come home, work for nuclear disarmament. Become who you are, the sons and daughters of the God of true peace.

Walk forth, you persecuted for justice. Keep going. Don’t give up. You stand on the shoulders of Dominic and Catherine. Your reward will be great. Walk Forth!

Wal

k Fo

rth!