Recently, I was looking through reflections by St. Francis de Sales, St. Jane DeChantal, and Blessed Louis Brisson, the founder of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. My search was to find something on which to reflect as I begin this New Year 2021. I was looking for something encouraging and uplifting after the rough year 2020 has brought all of us.
As I read each author, I repeatedly found the phrase, "We must begin again," mentioned by all three of these holy individuals. They used this phrase to address unfulfilled resolutions made by individuals and perceived failures in the spiritual life. In the case of St. Jane, she was actually writing about beginning a new year.
I believe the phrase "Begin Again" reveals the great optimism of Salesian Spirituality. St. Francis brought a new insight into spiritual life, pointing out that everyone can live a saintly, devout life. Francis assures those he guides in the spiritual journey that saintliness is within our grasp. There is nothing that exists stronger, more available, and more attainable than the grace of God. St. Francis teaches that we can be saints in all we do and, in particular, in how we engage in our personal vocation.
“Begin again!” It is good advice. This year, more than any other in our lifetime, has been difficult around the globe. The plague of COVID-19 has ripped through families, causing extreme illness and death, financial ruin, isolation, hopelessness, fear, and frustration. We need a “redo.” “Begin Again” reminds us that we can be hopeful and energized for more. Every saint was also a sinner, every saint felt the same anxieties, fears, and sadness that touches so many lives today. It was their faith and trust in God that allowed them to rise above their struggles and “Begin Again!”
May we meet 2021 with optimism and hope, and use our energy and gifts to allow us to “Begin Again!”
May God be blessed!
Fr. Jack Loughran
Provincial
Toledo-Detroit Province
