After a long hiatus, it's time to write.  Worrying whether or not people are reading the blog is not sufficient reason to not write.

I was looking at various community websites today.  One in particular comes to mind, that of the Marianists in the Roman Catholic Church.  One of the brothers was doing a short video about life as a religious brother, and noted that the community encourages the talents of each brother in determining his ministry.  For years, the "norm" was that communities had specific apostolates, and some still do, be it teaching or health care.  In BSG, we say "Each member is encouraged to develop his gifts and talents under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the care and direction of the community."  

Two recent examples are here today.  Br. Ciaran Anthony DellaFera just completed medical school and is now in Residency.  Br. Virgilio Fortuna was recently ordained to the diaconate.  By chance, both brothers are in Province 1 of the community, and live in Massachusetts.   The top photo is Ciaran at his medical school graduation.  Virgilio is shown (back row far left) with his "class" of deacons and Bishop Tom Shaw, SSJE.