A better world

A Better World

FROM THE EDITOR / John Stegeman

Jesus knew how to make a point.

In Luke 11:11 he asks, “What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish?”

Right there in scripture we see proof of something older than scripture itself. Parents want good things for their children. We want to leave them a better world.

This passage is of particular meaning to my family right now. My wife and I are expecting our fourth son in December. When I read the headlines, I often worry about the world I will leave behind to our boys. Will they grow to love the Lord? Will they treat others the way they want to be treated? Will they be healers or dividers?

Despite my worry, I am blessed. When I go to work at Glenmary, I see a different world. When the headlines tell me there’s no room for God, I see Father John Brown teaching children about the love of Christ. When fear mongers tell me to hate the stranger, I see Father Neil Pezzulo at the Mexican border treating immigrants with dignity. When I worry about divisions among Christians, I see Brother Craig Digmann visiting our Protestant brothers and sisters and establishing friendships.

When I go to work, I have the privilege of seeing a whole community dedicated to making this world a better place by modeling it on Jesus. I hope this magazine lets you see what I get to witness.

Christmas is coming and then the new year. Let us look to the example of Glenmary’s priests and brothers and coworkers as we choose our resolutions for the future.

For the sake of every child who will be born this year, let’s leave them a better world.