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Chapter 17: Looking to Francis
A few days passed since Jake told the group that he and Benjie were moving to St. Louis. Jake was reflecting on all that had happened and all that was about to happen. He sat quietly in the pew after Mass while the others were enjoying drinks and donuts in the parish hall. Father Timothy noticed Jake and sat down beside him. “Jake, what’s on your mind?” asked Father Timothy. Jake replied, “Oh Father, I have a lot on my mind, like bamboo.”
Father Timothy looked curiously at Jake, “What do you mean bamboo?” Jake explained how Keiko’s analogy of bamboo made sense to him and helped him deal with all of the changes going on. Father Timothy then said, “I too like that analogy of the bamboo. That reminds me of how Jesus used parables to help people become better disciples. You know Jesus said faith is like a mustard seed.” Jake said, “Yeah, I remember that parable. My faith has definitely grown beyond a small seed, but it is so difficult to stay positive about all of the changes happening in my life.” Page 2 of 6 © RCL Benziger
Father Timothy then told Jake, “You may not want to hear this right now, but yes life can be difficult at times. That is why God’s love is so abundant, and his mercy endures forever. We need to always know that we can rely on God. His grace gives us strength in the difficult times. And God reminds us to celebrate with joy during the good times too. Every saint has trusted in God’s mercy and was transformed by God’s love.”
Jake said, “You’re right. I cannot think of one saint who did not go through some difficult changes.” Jake then pulled out of his pocket a medal of Saint Francis. He said, “Father, I was given this medal when the Pope took the name, Francis. It has helped me focus on the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, to work on simplifying my life. I have been looking to Saint Francis for even more help since Keiko mentioned the bamboo. But a simple life doesn’t mean an easier life, does it?” Father Timothy then told Jake, “No, Jake, a simple life is not without its own challenges, however, the calmness from living simply helps. That’s perhaps why the Pope took the name, Francis. To help others realize the joy of living the simple life.” Jake said, “I think I am beginning to understand what you mean by calmness. Sitting here quietly after Mass has really helped me settle my heart. You know what I mean Father?” Page 3 of 6 © RCL Benziger
Father Timothy then explained, “Yes, Jake, I think I understand what you are going through right now. As you know, God called me to leave my old parish. And here I am learning to love a whole new group of people. Leaving behind the ones you love is not easy, but I really never left my old parish. I hold them all dear in my heart. And some of them I still keep in touch with.” Jake paused reflecting on what Father Timothy said. Father Timothy continued, “Speaking of plants, have you ever wondered why some plants are annuals and others are perennials?” Jake looked confused. Father Timothy explained, “God’s creation is so wonderful that there are some plants that grow back year after year. These are perennials. Others bloom beautifully for only one year. Friendships are similar. God gives us some friends to help us for just a moment. Other friends stick around our entire lives.” Jake replied, “Okay, that’s right. I had this one friend when I was around five years old, and first learning how to ride a bicycle. He helped me, but after that summer things changed.” Father Timothy replied, “That’s right!” Just then Manuel and Rodrigo walked into the church looking for Jake. Page 4 of 6 © RCL Benziger
Manuel whispered, “There you are, Jake.”
“Boys,” said Father Timothy, “I would like to talk to you about something. Let’s go outside.” They all walked out to a small open area just past the Chapel. Father Timothy explained, “Boys, I would like to request that the Explorers help our parish with a major project.” The three boys looked surprised. “We need a community garden here,” continued Father Timothy pointing to the open area. Manuel asked, “Father, do you mean a garden where local families can grow their own vegetables?” Father Timothy replied, “Yes, we need a reminder of the abundance of God’s gifts, and of course delicious fresh vegetables. Also the food pantry is having trouble handling fresh vegetables, and so this would be a great solution.” Jake then added, “Plus it would be a great place for people to sit and be quiet with God.” Manuel and Rodrigo looked at Jake impressed. “Would the Explorers be willing to help out?’ asked Father Timothy. Page 5 of 6 © RCL Benziger
“Father, I think this would be a perfect project for the Explorers, but I need to ask the whole group before we can agree,” said Manuel. Rodrigo then said, “If we do this, we will need lots of help.” Jake then said, “Father, may I request we name the garden after Francis?” Father Timothy replied, “I like the idea, Jake. We shall see what the parish council thinks.” Later that afternoon, the Highland Ridge Explorers and Father Timothy gathered at Cotter Field to cheer on Rodrigo, who was playing his first soccer game after his injury. After the game, Manuel explained Father Timothy’s idea to the group. Ellie shouted, “That’s an awesome idea!” Then everyone shouted “YES” together. Manuel looked at Father Timothy in the distance and gave him a big thumbs up. Manuel then asked, “Who do we know?” Rodrigo said that his Grandpa Ortiz knows a lot about gardening. Keiko said that her father is an architect who designs elaborate gardens as well as upscale apartment buildings. Marissa said, “Well I know that I love flowers!” --------------TIME TO VOTE Exit out of this page turner. Then scroll to the bottom of the web page to place your vote. Page 6 of 6 © RCL Benziger