Dear Parish Family, Have you ever asked God for a little peace? Do you watch the news and see nothing but sadness and violence around us? Our work and family lives are running at top speed and we wonder is there some peace to be found? Peace doesn’t have to be impossible. Philosophers and theologians tell us – it is within us. Not only do we need to turn off the noise, we need to slow down, turn off the news and be present in the moment. The Dalai Lama said “Do not let the behavior of others destroy your inner peace.” At times we can feel almost invaded. The peace we receive from God brings us joy, but understanding it may be difficult. Peace doesn’t have to be impossible. Quieting our thoughts, slowing down, and being present in the moment brings us awareness of our inner peace. Even a few moments a day can help! St Frances de Sales tells us “ Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.” Should I write – easy for him to say? We know all of this to be true and so helpful, but doing it takes concentration and dedication. Peace is defined as freedom from disturbance: tranquility. This is not easy to attain and yet, what internal joy it brings. The beautiful hymn “THE PRAYER OF ST FRANCIS” sums up all we need to ask God for. As you pray these words, can you here the melody? Make me a channel of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me bring love. Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord. And where there’s doubt, true faith in you. Make me a channel of your peace. Where there’s despair in life, let me bring hope. Where there is darkness, only light. And where there’s sadness, ever joy. Oh, Master grant that I may never seek So much as to console. To be understood as to understand. To be loved as to love with all my soul. Make me a channel of your peace. It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, In giving of ourselves that we receive, And in dying that we’ re born to eternal life. May your day be filled with moments of peace. Mary Jo