Southern Hospitality

Tau House has been host to all kinds of people lately.  Back at Mardi Gras time, we had 3 visitors from Germany -  Christophe, Mathias, and Carina.  They are currently fulfilling their country’s requirement of doing either a year of military or community service for a year.  They work in a shelter and soup kitchen in Chicago 

called "House of Mary and Joseph." It’s part of the Franciscan Outreach Program.  Fr. Manuel Borg ofm made the connection with Tau House.   They said not many young people realize that they can actually do this service in a foreign country.  Mathias wrote me:  “The only thing I would like to mention is that we really had a great time and that we were really lucky that we to got to know all of you.”

Brother Ed recently brought three students down from the Franciscan University in Quincy, IL.  Ed has been unceasing in his support of Tau House even though he no longer resides there.  They spent time with the Poor Clare Sisters uptown, at Project Lazarus and at Tau.  Window washing and gardening were on the agenda with us.  A big thanks is in order.

And finally, we hosted another Listening Circle with students and leaders from Mount Mary University in Milwaukee..  What struck me as different about this group was their concern with the “Big Picture”.   Learning about Katrina was important.  But discovering the inter-connectedness of all justice issues was a goal. Kevin led the animated prayer group and he and Chris spoke of their recent ministry in Kenya.  This group of young women deserves some kind of award for their intense interest, yearning for justice, and liveliness!  You will make the world a place where it is easier to be good.  Thank you for being with us.

Holy Week begins April 5th with Palm Sunday celebrations. From Holy Thursday through the Easter Vigil Fr. Ralph will be with us again for those liturgies.  Stay tuned.