Journeying together with faith and hope
I am struck by the image of Mary on a journey. Her journey begins with her traveling to see Elizabeth.
We know of course that both Mary and Elizabeth are at the beginning of much longer journeys that will bring them joy as well as sorrow. At the moment presented in this Gospel passage, I imagine they were feeling both the promise and the responsibility of what was ahead. We see them strengthened by faith, and by their connection to each other.
At Catholic Charities, we often encounter people as they begin journeys.
Some, like Mary in today’s gospel, come to us “in haste,” seeking help with urgent needs. Others come to Catholic Charities with longer journeys in mind — toward healing, toward stability, toward hope.
Rooted in our faith in the dignity and potential of every person, we are invited to walk alongside all those who come to us. We hope that, like Elizabeth, we are filled with the Holy Spirit in our work. We strive for a genuine connection with each person, so they know they are not alone as they strive for the future they seek.
On our Advent journeys, may we be reminded of the example of faith, hope and companionship Mary and Elizabeth showed us, as we seek to bring the same to all those we encounter.
Karen A. Dehais is president and Diocesan Director of Catholic Charities Diocese of Rochester.