RBWords

     In the Dominican liturgical calendar today is a feast called the "Translation of St. Dominic."  It is a commemoration of an event in which his bones were moved from a site outside of the church in Bologna, Italy, to an elaborate tomb indoors.  Even in death St. Dominic was itinerant!  Given my own itinerant ministry, I find some strange comfort in that itinerancy of St. Dominic's both in life and in death! 

 

     The foundation of the Dominican and Franciscan orders in the early 13th century represented a radical departure from the stability represented in traditional monastic life.  Itinerancy brought flexibility and accessibility in preaching and witnessing to the gospel.  Itinerant preaching could be called a "signature" ministry of the Dominican order.  It is not very much in vogue at the moment amongst my brethren because the idea of "living out of a suitcase" is not attractive.  The variety of places and circumstances for preaching is intimidating to some as well.  Obviously these challenges are not a problem for me.  But I have definitely learned to rely on the Holy Spirit in meeting them.  That is why I also take comfort in Jesus' words in today's passage from the Farewell Discourse: "I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word..."  Itinerant preaching brings a corresponding responsibility to be the best I can be at this ministry.  Otherwise the invitations will disappear!  I take no opportunity for granted, whether it be one in a series of parish missions or a series of retreats!  Each opportunity is a privilege.  The prayer of Jesus today and the inspiration of St. Dominic make me all the more determined to persevere at this ministry so that others may be able to believe that the Father has sent Jesus into the world.  AMEN