God’s call

By Fr. Russ Sampson, S.F.M.
September/October 2009

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As each of us discovers our own vocation, the Holy Spirit introduces us to many doors or openings through which we can enter and be in the service of the Reign of God.

In Isaiah, Chapter 55:8-9, God says: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways…For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts your thoughts.” These words help to explain how the Holy Spirit has been able to bring together so many different and varied personalities that make up Scarboro Missions since our beginnings in 1918, and used us as an instrument for the Reign of God.

I, too, can trace how the Holy Spirit has deepened and strengthened my vocation as a Scarboro missionary priest through my association with the laity—the people of God in the communities where I have been privileged to work since 1970. The value and importance of the laity in my vocation is immeasurable. There is no doubt that God has deepened my vocation as a result of being able to work in another culture, in particular with the laity in Guyana and in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I had been given that precious gift to work with pastoral agents, youth and children, who have both affirmed and challenged me in my vocation by making me aware of their daily realities and struggles.

This is my first opportunity to call attention to and acknowledge the vital role of the laity in my life as a priest. So, in a way, wherever I go, you the laity with whom I have been privileged to work, also go. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

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