Pope Francis' words of encouragement to all Sisters, Brothers and Priests in Consecrated Life have been transformed into a theme song for the Year of Consecrated Life #YCL2015. This song begins with his words, "Wake the world with dawning joy! Wake it with your gladness!" With full voice and heart we sing this song as we indeed live this life God has called us to with joy, gladness, and enthusiasm.
This verse continues:
Work for justice, live in peace, Claim the Word courageous!
Let us sing to God this new day, see the world in a different way.
Let us wake the world, wake the world,
with abiding words of faith.
We, Dominicans of Peace, embody this with our witness to justice, peace and the sacred duty of preaching the Good News in word and action. In song, dance and exultant praise we gather together each day to raise our voices to God as we pray and celebrate the Eucharistic Feast.
St. Dominic is known as the "Joyful friar" for his enthusiastic way he preached and lived his life. Dominicans have inherited this charism as if it were a genetic trait carried down the ages in our familial DNA. That joy is palpable in our congregation and Order.
One of my first encounters with this characteristic Dominican joy was at a celebration of Eucharist at our Dominican Retreat in McLean, VA. It was at a retreat for young single women. The Sisters planned the liturgy, led the music and decorated the chapel with an inspirational banner which read, "I know the plans I have for you, … a Future full of Hope!"(Jer 29:11). As the priest broke open the word of God, the sisters led us in song, and I received the body of Christ, a joy took hold in my heart which burns to this day. How I wish to share this joy with all.
I invite you to listen to this song, Wake the World with Dawning Joy by Steven Warner for the Year of Consecrated Life. Savor the song, and ask yourself, "How am I being called to Wake the World with Dawning Joy?"
God calling? Contact one of our Vocation Ministers. Begin the journey of discernment that can lead to joy beyond all telling in dedicating your life to God and God’s people as a Dominican Sister of Peace.
#YCL2015, #YearofConsecratedLife, @Pontifex, @PeaceDominicans, @SisterJune, #DominicanOrder