With my departure fast-approaching (December 2nd!) I have been thinking more and more about my reasons for committing to the Jesuit Volunteer Corps program. I find myself in a different mindset as compared to when I signed the dotted line in March, but the essential draw remains the same; I desire to live out God's will in a way that sheds light on new cultures, breaks down unjust barriers and spreads the Gospel's message of peace & love.
Each of these things are meant to be a two-way street. I intend to share about my experience of culture as I soak in that of Tanzania. I hope to erode biases and fears of my own as I work toward justice and education in my volunteer work. I look forward to witnessing and being witness to Christ's transformative love. The chance to live and grow in Tanzania is once-in-a-lifetime, but moreover I believe this opportunity was offered to challenge the way I look at the world, my relationships, and my place therein.
A Pilgrim's Journey
For the last six weeks I have been experiencing the world in a way I never thought possible. Using trains, planes, ships and bikes I've been visiting family and friends in all corners of Europe: Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Poland, Italy, and now Spain. I wish words could describe the depth and beauty of these visits; each person and place I've encountered has taught me so much about myself, the world, and how God can be found in all things.
The final leg of my journey will be in northern Spain along the route of St James, a pilgrimage known as El Camino de Santiago de Compostela. I will start walking in León along the "Camino Frances"--the "French Way" which begins in St Jean, France--and walk 300km/190miles to the Santiago Cathedral where the apostle James rests. This website gives an overview of the El Camino's ancient history and tradition, which is steeped in Catholic devotion, outdoor adventure and trusting in God's providence.
Why am I walking El Camino?
Since hearing about the pilgrimage from friends who have completed it, I have had the desire to see what the social, physical and spiritual elements of being a pilgrim are all about. Sure, I have travelled in Europe, South Africa, the Philippines, and the United States but never before have I been "on the road" alone and completely dependent on the generosity of others and the grace of God.
There are three prayer intentions that will be at the forefront of my mind as I walk, pray, listen and witness God's love. First is for the happiness and health of all. This may seem too general, but it really is my wish that everyone can have the opportunity for a life that is fulfilling, joyful, healthy and safe. Too many people are oppressed by conditions that are beyond their control; war, racism, hunger, sexism and lack of quality education are examples of how injustices keep people from living happy and healthy lives. Regardless of our background or faith tradition, we can agree that happiness and health are things everyone deserves. I pray especially for people who have walked El Camino before me, people who are sick, and people I have wronged.
Second, I pray for my relationships with my friends, family, and my girlfriend Sara. All of these relationships are built on love and trust, and I pray that they can continue to grow despite my distance from home. Two verses have reminded me lately to believe in God's ability to maintain relationships regardless of barriers of time and space. The first has always been close to my heart but was refreshed when it was read at Mass last week, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil 4:13). The second is just as classic but equally powerful "faith, hope and love remain...and the greatest of these is love" (1 Cor 13:13). These verses remind me that the foundation of my relationships--faith, hope & love--are the same foundation of Christ's strength which can help us bear, believe, hope and endure all things.
Third, I pray for the JVC program and especially the community in Dodoma, Tanzania. I can hardly wait to enter the community of housemates, parishioners, students, teachers, neighbors and friends that will shape and transform me over the next two years. I know I will have the opportunity to teach and spread God's love but I pray that I can be just as open to being taught and evangelized. I pray that my students know how much I care about them and that I can be a channel of peace and love to everyone I meet.
Join me on the Journey
I hope you can accompany me in praying for these intentions as I make my spiritual journey toward Santiago. You will certainly be in my prayers and I invite you to message or email (rknotttza14@gmail.com) me with any specific prayer requests you may have. And along with your prayers I would appreciate any donations toward my fundraising goal ($3,333). As JVC's fundraising philosophy notes (see last post) donations by friends and family are ways for you to be part of my experience as a Jesuit volunteer. The donations are used to support us volunteers and the programs (schools, churches, ministries) where we work. This is where you can find my fundraising page. Thank you so much for your prayers, support, love and donations; it's people like you that make this crazy life an absolute joy.
Peace & love,
-Ryan-
No comments:
Post a Comment