We remember; we still hope.December 03, 2018

This week we remember Sisters Dorothy Kazel, Maura Clarke, Ita Ford, and companion Jean Donovan on the occasion of the 38thanniversary of their martyrdom in El Salvador on December 2, 1980. How fitting that such an anniversary should coincide with the First Sunday of Advent, 2018.

During Advent we look forward to the coming of Christ, not just remembering his incarnation as a little baby, but also his future coming as the triumphant Christ, King of the Universe, the Alpha and Omega of the Kingdom of God. Even though at times it seems that goodness will not triumph, and that war and violence, hatred and fear are gaining the upper hand, we have faith that Christ through his Holy Spirit is at work in the world and that the Kingdom of God is sure to come.

There is still violence and fear in El Salvador; that has not changed since that dreadful day in 1980 when we lost our beloved Sister Dorothy. Our faith keeps us hopeful that we will see her again in God’s new Kingdom for which she gave her life’s work and her life itself.

Let us pray for the people of El Salvador, whom Dorothy, Maura, Ita, and Jean loved to the point of shedding their blood. Let us also pray for the coming of God’s Kingdom in our lives, our families and neighborhoods, and in our world. Our faith is sure and our hope is certain: Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!

Sister Elaine Berkopec