HOMILY NOTES/SUGGESTIONS
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE
SEPTEMBER 21, 2006
(FEAST OF ST. MATTHEW)

In 2001, the United Nations General Assembly decided that the International Day of Peace should be observed on September 21 of each year. In this context, it is fitting to reflect on the reading for the Feast of St. Matthew.

In the letter to the Ephesians, the author exhorts us “to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Like the apostles and evangelists we are called to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel by what we say and do.

Our founder, Father Chaminade, wanted our communities “to bear witness to the presence of Christ and to show that still today the gospel can be lived in all the force of its letter and spirit (Rule of Life, article 9). What can we do this day to live in a manner worthy of our call, especially our call to be peacemakers? The readings speak to multiple attitudes and actions. Here are just a few thoughts:

The Gospel calls us to mercy: “I desire mercy not sacrifice.” Mercy and forgiveness are essentials of Christian community. How can I witness this day to the call to mercy and forgiveness? Is there a particular situation in which I can make a contribution to peace by showing greater mercy?

The first reading calls us to be humble and gentle. Is there a situation in my life where humility and gentleness might open a door in a relationship that will lead to greater peace for myself and others?

The first reading also calls us to bear with one another with love. As we know, carrying a burden can often lead to tiredness, short temperedness, and similar states of anxiety. These can affect how I interact with others, often in a negative way. Is there someone I know or meet each day who is carrying a burden? Is there any way that I can help them bear this burden?

Finally, in a world torn by war and violence, are there ways I can contribute to preserving “the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace?” Is there a particular political or social issue that clamors for my response in some way? What will be my response?

Let us commit ourselves on this International Day of Peace to pray for peace. Let us also commit ourselves to actions for peace both locally and globally.