Director's Message
Father Richard Fall Reflections
“Amen Amen I say to you what you do for the least of your brothers and sisters you do for me!” We have all heard these words hundreds of times, but have we really understood what they mean for us? As I look at the latest statistics for the counties we serve unemployment rates are in the double digits and one county is over 25%, or 1 in 4 is out of work. I can only imagine the number of under employed!
When I saw the Missions most recent number of meals served at our Selma site I felt a pit in my stomach. Looking over the last years of meals served, we have doubled overall and some months in particular we have tripled. Unfortunately the need does not seem to be subsiding, but growing month after month after month. As a member of the Selma Area Food Bank I was astonished to find out that last year of all the agencies helping the poor in Selma we ministered to approximately 25% and this year we will serve 33% or more. Thankfully, God has blessed us with you and we can therefore meet some of the most basic needs for survival.
As I visit and work at our various Mission sites, I struggle to make sense of all that I see, beautiful little babies, vibrant young teenagers and smiling aging seniors. All made in the image and likeness of God, yet struggle each day to survive. Surely, God must have a plan…. Of course, being an Edmundite Priest, I think the plan must involve someone, but sometimes forget that someone is ME!!
If I am truly to understand the passage, “Amen, Amen I say to you what you do for the least of my brothers and sisters you do for me!” I must see myself playing a vital role to change, enhance and care for my brothers and sisters in Christ. This is of course the meaning behind Jesus’ message.
I know so many of you help year after year and have been true servants to “the least of these,” and for that I am eternally grateful. You have helped rebuild not only physical structures, but lives as well. You have aided in breaking the yoke of poverty by your selfless giving. I am inspired by your response to serve those miles away from you, yet united in spirit. Your support and prayers allow the work of Christ to continue each and every day, and you touch thousands of lives.
As we enter into the Fall Season, the traditional time of harvest and bounty, I want to say thank you for all that you have been, and continue to be to the Edmundite Missions. Without you we could not proclaim Christ’s message of compassion, love and most importantly Hope!
As together we serve “the least of these” each day I pray in a special way that all your days be filled with choicest blessings, and a profound understanding of our deep gratitude for you.
With warmest regards in Christ,
Rev. Richard Myhalyk, S.S.E.
