Religion & Spirituality
Preaching for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Sr. Christa Parra, IBVM offers a reflection on accompanying each other - and especially asylum seekers - through terrifying times: "Life is not as terrifying when we know that we are not alone. The Psalm today is similar to the song Stand By Me as it emphasizes that with God at my right hand, I will not be disturbed. My heart, body, and soul are confident because God does not abandon me. These words resonate with the stories from our families seeking asylum. There is a deep trust in God’s constant presence and faith that God will continue to lead us on the path of life. We are God’s beloved ones, God’s darlins’, called to 'stand by' one another knowing that God always 'stands by' us." Sister Christa Parra, IBVM is part of an inter congregational and intercultural community in El Paso, Texas where she loves and serves God's beloved people at the U.S./Mexico border. A third-generation Mexican American, she earned her Master of Divinity and a certificate in Hispanic Theology and Ministry at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She professed final vows with the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 2016. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/11142021 to learn more about Sr. Christa, to read her text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.