By Marge McGinley, National Vincentian Formation Committee Chair
Some people say that summer slows down a little but really summer offers us different choices, especially if Our Lord has led us to work in Formation. Most of our workshops where we spend time teaching and hopefully inspiring our Vincentians to grow in holiness as they minister to our neighbors in need, are conducted during the school year. As Conference members we continue to care for our neighbors in need but also take those opportunities to spend time with family and friends and hopefully take a little time off or away.
Instead of teaching the Ozanam Orientation on a Saturday, perhaps you’ve been invited to a picnic. Instead of running a webinar during a weekday evening, maybe you’re sitting by a pool, lake or ocean. Just the thoughts are refreshing. When we have time to pause our activities, the Holy Spirit can lead us where He needs us most. Our minds can clear, and creativity can heighten. Taking time for ourselves also helps prevent compassion fatigue therefore, never even approaching burnout.
Taking good care of ourselves allows us to do God’s work longer in our lives. When we are compassionate people, every situation and every person whom we encounter, impacts us. That can take a toll over time. So, let’s look a little deeper into all the “re-“words in the title of this article.
Bl. Frédéric teaches us that “the poor we see with the eyes of the flesh; they are there and we can put finger and hand in their wounds and the scars of the crown of thorns are visible on their foreheads…and we should fall at their feet and say with the Apostle, Tu est Dominus et Deus meus. You are our masters, and we will be your servants. You are for us the sacred images of that God whom we do not see, and not knowing how to love Him otherwise shall we not love Him in your persons?”
What can we do to stay capable to “share more love” with God’s people?
We often saw Jesus take time with His disciples to pray, but we also witness Him enjoying their company along with so many others. The wedding feast of Cana, the fish fry gatherings on the beach, the dinners at friends’ and sinners’ homes. Jesus was available and willing to spend time in nourishment and fun. As we gather as Vincentians, we are building friendships which will provide support and keep us well to better serve our neighbors in need. As we gather with family and friends this summer, take time to soak in their love and care for you, so you may share it with others.
Take steps to avoid compassion fatigue: Live within your mission statement, de-brief with other Vincentians, Refill and refuel in healthy ways, Leave your superman/woman cape in the closet. As Vincentians, and servant leaders we must find ways to pour ourselves out without wearing ourselves out and be able to teach others the same. St. Paul tells us in Phil 4:11-13, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
While we are relaxing and refreshing, perhaps we might dream about where the Holy Spirit might be leading us in next year’s formation in our Conferences and Councils, always aware of Saint Vincent’s guidance:
“Since you know the means of getting better, in the name of God, make use of them. Do not take on anything beyond your strength, do not be anxious, do not take things too much to heart, go gently, do not work too long or too hard.”
Very well said. Thank you.