“There is more that unites us than divides us. So make it a point to talk with someone who is different from you. You may find that you have more in common than you think”

“We are wired to be caring for the other and generous to one another. We shrivel when we are not able to interact. I mean that is part of the reason why solitary confinement is such a horrendous punishment. We depend on the other in order for us to be fully who we are.  - ― Desmond Tutu, The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World

Gospel Text:(MK 9:38-40)

John said to Jesus,
"Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name,
and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us."
Jesus replied, "Do not prevent him.
There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name
who can at the same time speak ill of me.
For whoever is not against us is for us."

What would I gain, for example, by dismissing the work of an inner city Protestant pastor, or Jewish rabbi or Muslim imam, that was meeting the physical needs of people, just because they weren’t Catholic? There can be a danger in relativism, but I’m not sure Jesus would approve of stopping good works because of it.

My hope is that more and more people of good will can come together to address the needs of the people and care for the earth.