The liturgy this weekend calls us to recognize the unique gifts of Martha and Mary. Seminarian Jonathan Dick reflects on the "uni-diversity" that Francis de Sales reminds us is part of our own unique vocation as Christians.
Whenever we celebrate the Eucharist, I believe we are also celebrating what St. Francis de Sales called “uni-diversity.” St. Francis writes that we, the people of God, are called to be united. At the same time, we must retain our diverse qualities that make us who we are as individuals. This union of our diversity can only be united by Jesus Christ.
In the Eucharistic bread and wine, there is a unique combination of different elements. Flour, water, and wine are all mixed together. It is blessed and transformed then by the power of the Holy Spirit to become the Most Precious Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
In a similar way, when we, the people of God, are brought together and blessed, we also become the body of Christ. We work to become a united people, diverse and unique, brought together and also blessed by the Holy Spirit.
As I progress through formation with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, I have realized that I am incredibly thankful for the Body of Christ in my life. In fact, I rely on it. Without the love, prayers, and support of so many friends of the Oblates, my progress in formation would lack something vital. As St. Paul tells us, one part of the body cannot tell another part of the body that we do not need them. The Christian ideal is one of mutual support for one another.
May God be praised!
Mr. Jonathan Dick, OSFS
Oblate Seminarian
