The arrival of Holy Week draws in a time of introspection that forces us to look inward, using Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection as a means to overcome hardships. The death and rebirth of Jesus parallels the human experience: we are thrown difficult experiences throughout our lifetime that reshape our identity and change the way we overcome challenges. This symbolic ‘death’ of thought or belief can positively impact how we adapt to change. If Jesus has taught us anything, it is that when faced with adversity, we must exhibit strength and courage; it is ingrained in our Catholic faith.
These lessons can be found in the teachings of our Foundress, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini; she too taught us that nothing worthwhile comes easy. During Her lifetime, She experienced a myriad of hardships, but even with the difficulties She faced, Mother Cabrini never wavered from her commitment to helping individuals in need. It is these very setbacks that propelled her forward and instilled a strong drive to accomplish anything she put her mind to, especially when it was to the benefit of others.
It is this tenacity and zeal that pushes us forward in our mission to help the most vulnerable.