A Free and Responsible Answer
MOSAIC, Winter 2010

Very Rev. Msgr. Jeffrey M. Monforton

"Truely, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of my brethren you did it to me."

The above verse from the Gospel According to Matthew (25:40) underscores the words from our Holy Father's recent encyclical on social concerns, Charity in Truth (Caritas in Veritate). As Pope Benedict XVI instructs: "Charity is at the heart of the Church's doctrine."

The consequences of our actions are beyond count. Each situation in which we find ourselves with our brothers and sisters has a cascading effect on all people. As ones who are baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we are commissioned to bear witness to God's love in our lives as Jesus bore witness in the Scriptures.

The very integrity and success of human civilization is intrinsically dependent on our ability to respond to the needs of our day in faith, hope and love. In the encyclical, Pope Benedict instructs that "A vocation is a call that requires a free and responsible answer." The priestly formation program, as well as all programs at Sacred Heart, emphasizes our students' ability to be both free and responsible in word and action, thereby imitating Jesus Christ who is the perfect model for our conduct.

In order for us to do that, we must be fully aware of the respect for human development that transcends our own local community and personal growth. You and I most certainly are our brothers' and sisters' keeper.

I invite you to learn more about Caritas in Veritate and the Church's social teaching by examining the latest issue of our journal, Mosaic. On behalf of the seminary community, thank you for your support as we prepare the Church's laborers for a field that is in great need to hear and to bear witness to our Lord Jesus' loving presence.

With prayerful best wishes to you and your loved ones as we keep our eyes trained on our Good Shepherd, I remain, 

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Very Rev. Msgr. Jeffrey M. Monforton
Rector/President