Memorial of Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, Martyrs
Manager
In today’s reading from St. Paul’s First Letter to Timothy, we hear about the desired traits of bishops and deacons. I’d say the qualities listed for these church officials are desirable for any Christian.
What strikes me is the quality of being a good manager of one’s household. As a monk, I don’t have a household, but I have a few spaces and activities to manage at the Abbey. Recently, the Abbot assigned me to the Gift Shop. The plan is for me to become the manager, but thankfully I don’t have to swim in the deep end just yet, so to speak. I am getting experience, learning from the current manager, and bringing new ideas and skills to the table.
Today’s commemorated saints, Pope Cornelius (d. 253) and Bishop Cyprian (d. 258), surely were good managers of their respective “households”—whether it was a small community in Carthage or the burgeoning Catholic Church of the 3rd century. I shall ask for their intercession as I begin to manage my own little corner of the world.
For the Journey:
Which of the qualities listed in today’s first reading sticks out to you? What quality do you feel confident in? Which one do you hope to grow in?
Reflection by Br. Luke Kral, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections