On innkeepers, shepherds and gift bearers

A reflection by Mike Poulin of the Mercy Justice Team

I am recently returned from a five-day delegation to Honduras. Sponsored by the SHARE Foundation, we spent our time visiting Mercy and other ministries in and around San Pedro Sula.

I’ve been thinking about this experience a lot since my return home, while I’ve also been trying to prepare for Christmas. So maybe it’s not surprising that I’ve recognized some parallels between the trip and our upcoming celebrations.

Our Honduras travel group arrived at Centro de Retiros Notre Dame at the same time as the El Salvador contingent completed their 11-hour trek. It was dark when both vans pulled up to the house where we were greeted by Sister Rosa Maria who cared for us over our five days, along with assistance from Mandy and Victoria. Meals, water, laundry, cleaning; we were not turned away from this inn but welcomed as though we were old friends visiting again.

Each day we journeyed out under the care of our driver, Alvin, who transported us safely, in his cozy van, to all our destinations. Our course was plotted by Jose, Sister Diane and Jean, experienced visitors to Honduras who guided our steps and answered our many questions. They made sure we learned, and understood, and didn’t get lost.

And our visits were so many gifts:

• With Padre Melo and the staff at Radio Progreso we learned about the current political climate in the country and how this radio station is a voice for human rights.

• The community cooperative where some Radio Progreso staff have pooled resources and formed an intentional community where they built five homes and have land to plant crops.

• COFAMIPRO, an organization that helps Hondurans discover what has happened to loved ones who have immigrated but not been in contact.

• Nelly and Weavers of Dreams, a Mercy ministry that provides accompaniment to women human rights defenders in Honduras.

• Sister Masbely and Casa Corazon de la Misericordia, a Mercy ministry that has provided a home and healthcare for children in need for 30 years.

• Sylvia and Paso a Paso, a safe, education- and arts-oriented oasis amid rival gang territories.

• Foro de Mujeres por la Vida, and the many Mercy Associates affiliated with their work to prevent violence against women throughout Honduras.

Though we know how the story turns out, the first Christmas was an uncertain time for the Holy Family, a time where they relied on the kindness of strangers and friends. These are uncertain times in Honduras following years of violence in the country and a weeks old presidential election that remains undecided. Even during these uncertain times, it was a joy to visit with our many hosts, to hear their stories and to be present in solidarity with them. As we departed, we promised to tell these stories, hoping that in the sharing we will manifest positive outcomes.

There is so much more to tell about this experience (and it is my intention to do so in an upcoming article for Everyday Justice), but for now I leave you with just one more thought. In the stress, uncertainty and danger that is life in Honduras, the people that we encountered go out of their way to be good to the people they serve and the guests who visit. This Christmas, and throughout the new year, join me in trying to emulate them. Be good to each other.

Merry Christmas.

Friday callbacks

This is one in our recurring series of Friday reflections, where one of the Mercy Justice Team’s members shares some hope and encouragement, and the team gives you an opportunity to respond to any recent calls to action you might have missed. This week, you still have the opportunity via the alerts below to work for change in unjust systems. Click the link for any of the messages you might have missed this week and add your voice:

• We want more than thoughts and prayers for victims of gun violence