A thank you from Father Michael

I would like to express deep gratitude to all of you who live and work at the Motherhouse. You received Philani Dlamini (a Loretto “grandson”) and me with warmth in both large and small conversations. I especially thank Martha Alderson who made the visit possible. She and Mary Swain were our constant companions throughout the visit.

My love affair with Loretto began in 1992 in Quito, Ecuador, as Latin America celebrated 500 years of resistance to European colonialism. That was where I met Sister Mary Peter and Connie Newton. Mary Peter and I were like brother and sister from day one, subsequently meeting at the UN, in Denver and in South Africa.

The more I got to know about Loretto, the more I loved and admired the Community. I am a member of an Anglican men’s religious congregation in Southern Africa, but I think of myself as a Sister of Loretto.

As an Anglican priest it was a privilege to celebrate Mass with you. At first, I worried that my background could be a source of stumbling, and that there would only be a few attendees. But you were there in numbers, and you applauded when I talked about my feelings for Loretto. On that day, I’m sure God smiled.

Thank you also for the opportunity to have a large in-person and virtual conversation with the community: we were able to speak about deep wounds and created a safe space together.

St. Irenaeus said, “The glory of God is a human being fully alive.” I saw that glory at the Motherhouse, and I continue to be fed emotionally and spiritually in a weekly coffee klatch with some Loretto members.

It was important for me to pray at the grave of Sr. Mary Peter where her mortal remains were laid to rest. However, I know that her spirit does not lie there. It is with Christ in God and in the hearts and minds of countless people, especially across Latin America, whose lives she touched and who loved her.

I am sure that you experience grief and sadness as you see thenumber of the vowed beginning to dwindle. Our faith teaches us that death and resurrection is the pattern of the universe and so it is with Loretto. Your decision to create Link reflects your desire not just to die but to rise again. In a similar way, at an earlier time you created co-members.

Like all aging institutions, the temptation is to focus on maintenance and not mission. I am sure that would make Mary Peter turn in her grave. God has not finished with Loretto.

I loved the singing in the chapel. But it has to be said that the daily symphony concert from the birds gives you a run for your money. For the rest of my life, I will cherish my visit to the Motherhouse.

As Archbishop Desmond Tutu often signed his letters, “I say to each and all of you, May God bless you richly.”

Whilst formally I am privileged to be a member of Loretto Link, in my heart, I remain,

Michael SL