June 2020

Dear Friends, 

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            As our country tries to cope with turmoil on so many fronts, The Christophers’ message of hope is needed now more than ever. Hope is what is needed in the face of the health crisis of Covid-19 and the devastating effects of isolation it has had on our nation. Hope can help heal the racial tensions of our nation. Hope has healed our nation before, and it is the only answer now. We have hope that justice, mercy, and peace will prevail in our time, and in all things. That is The Christophers’ message, and the one we must share in times of crisis. Our founder Father James Keller, M.M. said;

“Hope looks for the good in people instead of harping on the worst.  Hope opens doors where despair closes them. Hope discovers what can be done instead of grumbling about what cannot. Hope draws its power from a deep trust in God and the basic goodness of mankind. Hope ‘lights a candle’ instead of ‘cursing the darkness.’ Hope regards problems, small or large, as opportunities. Hope cherishes no illusions, nor does it yield to cynicism. Hope sets big goals and is not frustrated by repeated difficulties or setbacks.  Hope pushes ahead when it would be easy to quit. Hope puts up with modest gains, realizing that ‘the longest journey starts with one step.’ Hope accepts misunderstanding as the price for serving the greater good of others. Hope is a good loser because it has the divine assurance of final victory.”

            The Christophers concentrate on reaching out to people who need that spiritual nourishment the most. Here is a quick little note from a priest in New Mexico: “Good to see you at the Religious Education Congress. Thanks for the Three Minutes a Day books for the residents at the home of the Little Sisters of the Poor, where I am a Chaplain.” Those kind words and many more inspire our Christopher staff each and every day.

            On June 13, we celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Anthony of Padua. Born in Portugal in 1195, Saint Anthony discovered a calling to religious life as a young man, and became a Franciscan priest. Known for his service to the poor and sick, he was also a scripture scholar and a powerful preacher. Saint Anthony is the patron saint of lost things. This saint once said: “We are formed by environment and grace, by politics and prayer, by church and conscience. All God’s creatures conspire to teach us as well. We stumble. We stutter. We rise. We are lifted.”

            Thank you to all of our Christopher friends, who make our work possible by your generosity and love for our message. Please be assured that you and your loved ones will be remembered in our prayers. God bless you!

Gratefully,

Mary Ellen Robinson

President