Love, Think, Speak.

For the past week or so, I have been reading the Chronicles of Narnia. I have wanted to read this set of books by C.S. Lewis for quite some time now and since I am not in school right now, I have time to read them. I also wanted to read the books before I watched any of the movies (new and old ones alike). The three words love, think, and speak appeared at the end of the chapter entitled: 'The founding of Narnia'. These three words shed light on what goes on in a pastoral visit to the sick or to a family's home. As men preparing to be priests we ought to first strive to love those who we are visiting. Secondly, we must think and be open to the movement of the Holy Spirit. Lastly, we might speak. The quotation from St. Francis of Assissi always rings true though: "Preach the gospel, use words if necessary".

Also for the past few weeks, I have been reading Jesus of Nazareth. Currently I am reading the section written on the Lord's Prayer and it has been a time for myself to do what Pope Benedict sought to do and that is: to seek the face of Christ in the gospels.

Both books have provided delightful moments and challenges in my ongoing pastoral and spiritual formation.