The Lord wants us to belong to a Church that knows how to open her arms and welcome everyone, that is not a house for the few, but a house for everyone, where all can be renewed, transformed, sanctified by his love—the strongest and the weakest, sinners, the indifferent, those who feel discouraged or lost.
Pope Francis, The Church of Mercy
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I had the pleasure of greeting at 9 am Mass again this morning. I really enjoy starting my day smiling and saying “Good morning ,” to the many cheerful people entering the double glass doors. “A house for everyone .” It really is invigorating.
Today’s Gospel made me think about how we all can serve God in our own way. You don’t have to sit in a pew or kneel in solemn prayer. If you “perform a mighty deed,” or help your fellow man, you are following His teachings.
Gospel MK 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
At that time, John said to Jesus,”Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name,and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.”
Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him.There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my namewho can at the same time speak ill of me.
For whoever is not against us is for us.Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drinkbecause you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward…
Pope Francis seems to be winning the hearts of all faiths with his sincere and humble words. And, the truth is, leading and teaching by example, is the most effective way.
Toni Andrukaitis 
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