Message on MLK Jr Day from the Prior Provincial
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – January 18, 2021
A Message to our Augustinian Family and Friends,
Today we remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his civil rights legacy. Fifty-five years ago, on Chicago’s Southside in Marquette Park not far from St. Rita Parish and High School, King marched with a small crowd of people addressing unjust housing conditions. Approximately five years ago, about 100 parishioners from St. Rita Parish marched with over 1000 people representing the racial and religious demographics of the City of Chicago. That event emulated that historic March back in 1966. On the spot where King was struck in the head with a rock by a white counter-protester now stands the MLK Living Memorial. That violent act against King that took place in Marquette Park is a revolting reminder of how racially fractured we were back then. On January 6th, the riotous storm against the Capitol reveals that our Nation is STILL in need of healing our ruptured social relationships.
It is discouraging to see violence connected with peaceful protests that speak of the desire for change, inclusion, truth, and unity. We are facing a major change in government this week. A new administration will be sworn in with the hope of healing division in all its forms, especially racial disharmony, that has been characterized by the tensions caused by public discourse and action.
We grieve over the racial discord that has been fed by nationalist ideologies that fail to recognize the dignity of each person as well as to treat each person as our neighbor. Dr. King envisioned a society that would accommodate every person, regardless of his or her race, gender, religious affiliation, orientation or any difference that contributes to the person’s uniqueness. We continue to strive toward that society that he called the “Beloved Community.”
The mission of the Gospel, as Jesus demonstrates, is to heal broken hearts and lives, to be inviting and welcoming. I invite all members of our Augustinian Family and all those associated with us to pray for a peaceful and respectful future together. Do not allow complacency to dictate your choices and decisions but rather allow the Spirit of Christ to move you beyond your limitations so that you may see the Face of God in one another.
