To hear the phone call itself ring at that time of night is unusual in itself. But, with recent news that we've just received, I found myself lying in bed just thinking about it. The Jesuits of the Oregon Province have officially filed for Chapter 11 reorganization. It's front news on the Seattle Times.
Ever since I was a first year novice, this financial situation has always been looming over our heads. This news of bankruptcy is not shocking for us since we have been preparing for this reality. But, with the news being official, I find myself early this morning with a heavy heart.
At this point, I'm at a loss for words. All I can do is pray.
I do not wish to dwell upon this on my blog, so I will probably shift gears by tomorrow and change the subject. I would like to offer, however, a more in-depth reflection about this, hopefully by the end of next week. I may not, however, if I think it not prudent to post anymore about this for the time being.
Please pray for all of us during this time.
"Lord, I pray fervently that you may bring about true healing and reconciliation during this time. For the victims of real abuse, that they may be healed from the wounds of their past and that they may know that our hearts go out to them. I have witnessed a true desire for real healing in this matter and for forgiveness. For my Jesuit companions who have been wrongly accused, that this stigma may not pull them into despair. For the province, that you may lead us during this time of reorganization, that all we do may be rooted and grounded in you. Guide all of our hearts and our minds, that it may be directed by your love and tender mercy."
3 comments:
Living in Seattle, and attending SU for graduate school, and having attended for undergrad as well, I was aware that this had been looming. Having benefited from the Oregon Province Jesuits more than any of you could know, this deeply saddens me. I will pray for all of you and the ramifications that this has. That those who truly were abused may find peace, and that those wrongly accused for their parts, may find comfort, and that all of you Jesuits from the Province are held in God's loving arms.
Thanks for your prayers, Mary. It means a lot to us at this time.
I am not at all connected with the Jesuits in Oregon, but I join Mary and all of you in prayer for the victims, those responsible, all who suffer deeply as a result, and for the Jesuits who are burdened both financially and psychologically in this sad time.
It strikes me how terrible Sin is; how it can inflict pain even on those remote from its commission. God be with you all.
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