Readings:
Genesis 12:1-4a
Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22.
2 Timothy 1:8b-10
Matthew 17:1-9

Hello everyone, my name is Jazmin Torres, and I am a student in the Pathways program at Catholic Theological Union. I am in my first year of graduate school, pursuing an M.A. in Hispanic Theology and Ministry.

For this Sunday’s Scripture, I wish to reflect on Ash Wednesday, when the Coalition for Spiritual & Public Leadership and the Missionaries of St. Charles Scalabrinians hosted an event at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Melrose Park. The event included a Mass and Procession with Cardinal Blase Cupich. This gathering was held to show that our Church is a community of immigrants and to commit ourselves to accompanying immigrant communities. It was also a celebration of being able to visit the detention center to give ashes and communion to those inside. I attended this event to support my friends who went as marshals for the procession, and also because I desired to support the families of detainees, as well as family members of migrants who have passed away while in immigration custody.

While I was there, I saw the community come together. I noticed news reporters interviewing adults and children, and I observed state politicians, including Chuy Garcia and Dick Durbin. It was heartening to see these figures show their support through their physical presence.

Before the procession, volunteers handed out candles for the walk. I really enjoyed the way we – the community – lit each other’s candles and passed the flame around and ensured everyone was included. Since that night was windy, some of the flames would blow out, but people would stop to relight their candles before continuing the walk. Witnessing this act meant a lot to me because it shows that this is what accompaniment looks like. It’s slowing down, stopping, and continuing at a pace that is comfortable for oneself.

Something that spoke to me was seeing the number of people there to support these families going through hard times. It reminded me of a course I took last semester called Catholic Social Teaching. One specific teaching that stuck out during this was the Preferential Option for the Poor. In this context, it is about meeting the needs of the marginalized and standing with them during challenging times.

This Sunday’s scripture tells us, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him” (Matthew 17:5). We are called not only to follow the Catholic Social Teachings, but also to follow the teachings of Jesus. He gave us two commandments: to love God and to love our neighbor. As simple as it sounds, it can be difficult to give love when times are hard. Moving forward, I will carry the intention to refocus on Christ’s teachings. God has told us to listen to Jesus, and Jesus himself tells us to “rise, and not be afraid” (Matthew 17:7). So I ask you, what is it you are truly afraid of? What is holding you back from following the two commandments in giving love to God and to your neighbor? Better yet, how can we better transfigure ourselves into becoming who we are called to be for the good of all?

Jazmin Torres