Written by Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care

We have entered the time of year when religious holidays seem to take a break as we experience the days of summer. But, we can still focus on growing spiritually and understanding our own gifts. There are ways that we can serve and love God along with those around us, if we take stock of our gifts and use them. Our abilities or gifts may differ from those of others around us. St. Peter says, “Be hospitable to one another without complaining. As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace. Whoever preaches, let it be with the words of God; whoever serves, let it be with the strength that God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:9-11)

Take a moment to discern your gifts. You have probably been told in your life about the things that you are good at doing. Is that a special gift? Are there other characteristics or abilities that you have that you haven’t considered as a gift? How can you spend time in service to others with the abilities you have?

St. Francis wasn’t a doctor, but he spent time in service to those who were suffering from leprosy. He could wash their wounds and treat them with dignity. I watch people each day at Felician Village who offer their service to others. We have volunteers who help residents during activities like bingo. Some help transport residents to and from musical entertainment and religious services. Some simply sit with residents to have conversations. These are all different gifts. Our staff similarly offers their gifts to our residents and their families.

Discerning our own gifts can come with spending time in conversation with God. As we reflect, we realize who we are meant to be and what we are meant to do. Taking our gifts and using them for the common good is the best response.

Blessed Angela: “Visit and help the sick especially those who are most abandoned.”