Dear friends of Fr. Benedict,

Monday Sept. 7, 2004

From Fr. Glenn Sudano

It's not only interesting, but also true. That is, size can betray worth. Take for example a diamond or pearl. Despite their size, these are considered precious and costly. Small things can also be strong - like some perfumes or pills. They can be dangerous like blood clots or bullets! In engineering, one misplaced decimal point can spell disaster, while in medicine a small centimeter or milligram can mean life and death. Artists and athletes must also pay great attention to small details; a quality which separates the Masters from the mediocre.

In the Holy Gospels Our Lord often speaks about small, seemingly insignificant things like salt, light and leaven. Yet, although these are small in themselves, they have great value. When all the lights suddenly go out, one candle can make a big difference. We also know that only a small amount of salt is needed to make a good steak taste great, and perhaps only grandma really knows the power of a little leaven.

One of the most dangerous ideas an adult can give to a child is that in order to "make it" in life, they must strive to be the biggest, the brightest, or the best. The fashion and advertising industries effectively foster this lie which feeds on our own human ego. No wonder we have children who are running in two opposite directions – perfectionism (over-achievers) and low self-esteem (under-achievers).

Knowledge of Jesus Christ and a vibrant relationship with Him in the Church helps us to see the true value of those things the world considers important. These are revealed as a treasure only when weighed in the invisible and open hands of God.

As a priest, every day I am well aware of this truth. There I stand at the altar, a sinner, to offer sacrifice. In my hands I hold an almost weightless white host and cup of common wine. There, the Holy One makes Himself small, seemingly insignificant, and weak – like you and I – a fact not only interesting, but true!

Fr. Glenn Sudano, CFR
Community servant (superior) residing at St. Felix Friary in Yonkers
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Dearest Fr. Benedict, I am fairly certain that a New Yorker would not want to admit, this, but face it... WE LOVE YOU... for many reasons. Not the least of which is the way you consistently and unerringly lead us to a greater love of God, the Eucharist, our fellow man, and kindness and encouragement to ourselves when we falter. With many, many prayers both for your intentions, and in gratitude for your life, testimony, and words to us, THANK YOU ...eternally. Love in God, - Jan, Locust Grove, Virginia

Dear Fr. Benedict, Fr. Glenn, and Volunteers, Thanks for everything you do. The newest writings have been very inspirational, from all contributors, and today's video brings tears. ;) I'm so glad to hear, Father, that you are doing so well in your PT, and much better than they expected. Have they tried water therapy yet? I'm no swimmer, myself, but it isn't as if they make us do Olympian laps around the pool, thank goodness. It immediately strengthened my post-operative knee better than any exercises or machines they had used before. I hear there's much good in exercising your muscles against the water resistance, without having to put weight on still-unsteady limbs. Not a day at the beach, but very effective! I'm sure you are in the best hands and pray daily that you continue to strengthen. Thank you again and God bless you all! - Julie, Mesa, Arizona

Dear Father, I continue to pray for your complete recovery. I did have to laugh that you were kissed 68 times. I think that it comes natural to want to do that too you because of the love you have in your heart for Jesus and others and the gratitude we all have to the Lord for his healing in your life to show the rest of us there is hope in the darkness hours.May you and your community continue to grow in the beauty of our blessed Lord. Margaret Fought - Alliance, New England

Click Here For A Prayer From Father Glenn

Send your greetings to Fr. Benedict

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