Gratitude, Courage, and Hope!

I had the opportunity of a lifetime recently, to spend a couple weeks in Rome! I only wish I could have shared the experience with all of my family members, and with my CANFP “family”.

It is difficult to single out highlights of my time there, but the top ten list certainly includes being in the presence of our Holy Father at a Wednesday audience in St. Peter’s square, and time spent in prayer before the tombs of two of his predecessors who have influenced so many of us who labor to share the good news of NFP: Pope John Paul II and Pope Paul VI.

While my CANFP family may not have been there with me, physically, they were certainly foremost in my thoughts during these prayerful times.

Before the tomb of Blessed John Paul II, I found myself overwhelmed with gratitude for him, but also for all those back home who live and share the good news of NFP, and for all who support CANFP. I placed in Blessed John Paul’s care the intentions of each of you, and your families, and asked for his Blessing on CANFP. Pope John Paul’s tomb is in St. Peter’s Basilica itself, and the special place he holds in the hearts of so many is reflected in the crowds always present visiting his tomb.

In contrast, Pope Paul VI lies in a less visited area beneath St. Peter’s, and I was alone the entire time I spent at his crypt. Perhaps it was only because of this difference in the environment, but in the presence of Pope Paul VI I felt a sense of the solitude, perhaps even deep suffering, that can accompany being a prophet, speaking truth courageously, to a culture that rejects it, and against great opposition. I found myself thanking Pope Paul VI, on behalf of all whose path was made clearer by his vision, courage and faithfulness, and assuring him that many have responded to his challenges to advance the body of knowledge, and share the good news, in their personal and professional lives. I was struck by the fact that we are often not privileged to know the outcome of our efforts—but the value of our endeavors, and the satisfaction, is not measured in our reception, recognition, or success, but in our faithfulness, courage, and perseverance.

I left with a renewed conviction to pursue our mission, that  more might be spared the  pain of abandoning God’s plan, and that many may know the joy of living His design; a deeper sense of community with all who strive to live out these principles; and a humble gratitude for all who have supported the mission of CANFP, including those supporters who have passed to their eternal reward, and those we have yet to meet. Blessings to our Holy Father, to his predecessors, and to all those whose contributions are known to God alone.