The Oasis - June 1, 2022

A number of people have asked for a copy of the benediction I used to end the service this past Sunday. I offer it here for your reflection. I’m guessing it spoke to people, because of the anger and sadness many feel regarding the shooting in Uvalde, Texas. I think this is a time for grieving, for action, and for holy foolishness. -Eric

A Franciscan Benediction

May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.

May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer pain rejection hunger and war so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in the world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done, to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.