This month I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with Lucy Morinelli. Last summer, while she was visiting St. Cecilia's Cathedral in Omaha, NE, Lucy was mugged and beaten by 2 young men. It was a shock to the parish to hear about this act towards one of our own and those who were able, watched in horror as the news showed the scene unfold in front of the church's security cameras. Those who knew Lucy preached the same story: Lucy was a beautiful soul who would have helped these young men if they had asked. It was no surprise to anyone when Lucy's words after the attack were words of forgiveness.
My first understanding of how special this lady was when I first called her to set up the interview. Lucy said to me over the phone that she didn't think this story was that big of a deal. Her words in the interview and even as we talked through the questions before hand were so simple: we forgive because Jesus forgives. Her witness is that simple.
As I look back on the last 5 months of witnesses from other parishioners they give us the same simple testimony: we act with mercy because Jesus Himself was merciful. Are we open to moments when we can practice mercy? Do we even recognize those moments God gives us to act with mercy?
Forgiveness can be hard to practice and for many people it is the hardest act of mercy to complete. Lucy reminds us of how freeing forgiveness is for us. When we don't forgive, it's not just the other person who is affected, but us as well. We are burdened when we do not forgive.
Let us pray this month for the graces necessary to forgive. Let us also pray to be open to moments when we can show mercy and kindness to others.
God bless!
Guest blogger:
Emily Schmid
St. Pius X Staff
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