If you read my previous blog, you know this little Lighthouse Hike started with a conversation between God and me, then Fr. Matt and me. Here is what followed:
- A conversation between Fr. Matt and Fr. Don Farnan, the current pastor of St. Francis Xavier;
- Conversations between each of the priests and Jim Bell, outreach volunteer extraordinaire and shepherd of the covenant between SFX and its sister parish in Belize, St. Martin de Porres;
- My casual announcement to the SFX choir;
- Fred Hopkins conviction that I could not do this alone. I need(ed) help;
- Lots of conversations between Jim, Fred, and SFX leadership and parishioners.
I started with a small idea, one built just for me. God had a different idea, one created for and from community. This is no longer a hike that I am doing. It is a mission in which many are now involved.
- Jim and Fred have become my inspiration, my colleagues, the persons who pick up the pieces that would stop me before I started.
- Susie Johnson is managing this blog and the related social media. Erica Byrne will be posting on my personal instagram account to ensure we reach beyond my communities outside of church.
- Ten other SFX parishioners and friends have already signed up to be sherpas, dine with me, pray for me and with me, to share in this crazy journey. People stop me in the gym or at the grocery store. They share their support —some financial, some spiritual, and others physical. Each one of these persons plays a critical role in the success of the Lighthouse Hike (which now includes some biking).
Whether you have voiced it or not, you now play a role, too. You are among my communion of saints. You are reading this blog, which means you have opened your heart to this simple mission: help rebuild the schools in Belize.
Whatever your final role, thank you. I need your support. So do the children of Belize.