We know that during difficult times the value of doing littles things as though they were great is a source of peace, joy and hope for those who live together. To cultivate the virtue of patience and the value of time for the other is certainly a precious gift that strengthens the spirit of family. Pascal used to ask the Lord: “Lord, help me to do great things as though they were little, since I do them with your power; And little things as though they were great, since I do them in your name!” Fr. James is the “Lolo” of the community. His mission among young people is to rest, to reflect, to read, to pray, to accompany and stir up discussions, often from theological and challenging edges that deserve listening, reflection, participation, discernment and sometimes also dissent as part of the miracle of communion and unity. Particularly in this trial period, the humble service of peeling potatoes, cloves of garlic and carrots in an enlivened, dynamic – with some confusion - kitchen has been a way to revive his Novitiate 1960! Our Founder, Saint Guido Maria Conforti, recommended that during the Novitiate we should cultivate a joyful outlook on life, a natural ease in our behavior, courtesy, loyalty…and ready to accept challenges… for the glory of God… Indeed, in his 80ies he still keeps the spirit of a good “Novice”.
