Cor Jesu Academy formed me when I was a student, continued to form me when I returned as a faculty member and that formation deepened throughout my life as an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.  As a student I was encouraged to develop my talents, to always try my hardest, to live in the presence of God, to be aware of the needs of others and to respond to those needs.  In essence, I was urged to simply be the person God made me to be. 

Each of us is made in the image and likeness of God.  Each of us was made to develop the gifts we were given and to find ourselves in the heart of Christ who calls us to revel in His love for us.  Blessed Clelia Merloni states, “What a great privilege it is to be loved by God.” This powerful love gives us the capacity to love… God, ourselves, others.

Let me share with you a simple piece that highlights this call to be one’s deepest self, centered in God.

Rabbi Zusia said, “When I appear before the Almighty, I am not afraid to be asked: ‘Reb Zusia, why have you not been like Abraham, the patriarch, or like Moses, our great teacher?’  The question I truly fear is: ‘Reb Zusia, have you truly been Reb Zusia?’”

So, “Sharing the love of the heart of Christ” calls me to be myself and to share that unique gift of being with others wherever life finds me. 

Why do we so often compare ourselves to others rather than focusing on the gifts and blessings that God has given us? (For each of us is made in God's image!) 

Sr. Maureen Fitzgerald, ASCJ '70