October Message from
Our Executive Director

Living in a country divided and plagued with verbal and physical violence, revenge, and intolerance every day is exhausting and very much a source of desolation. I know I'm not the only person who feels this way. Polarization in our society, and the Church, has reached unexpected levels. The temptation to simply do nothing and let things get better on their own is real. Sometimes when we want to do or say something, we may hear voices saying it's not worth it, that it's a waste of time. I do my best to refuse to believe this.

Inspired by my wife, I recently began reading Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ's latest book, Cherished Belonging: The Healing Power of Love in Divided Times. Fr. Boyle has said on multiple occasions while promoting the book, "At the end of the day, we long to know there is no us and them, just us." In the introduction to the book he shares two principles held at Homeboy Industries:

1. Everyone is unshakably good (no exceptions).

2. We belong to each other (no exceptions). 

I invite you to reflect on these two points in prayer and consider how they could shape our life, work, and ministry. Additionally, I ask for your suggestions below on how OIS can help build a community of kinship, as Fr. Boyle often encourages. I look forward to your responses. 

I also pray for the grace of hope. Hope, as Pope Francis reminded us, does not disappoint. 

Un abrazo,

Carlos Aedo
Executive Director, Office of Ignatian Spirituality