By Fr. Conrad Targonski

Focus: Counseling the Doubtful

Reflection: “To counsel the doubtful means to assist someone who is uncertain in evaluating a belief or a proposed course of action that has spiritual consequences….but this “work of mercy” depends on our commitment to prayer, daily Christian living, and resulting attunement to the Holy Spirit. We can’t give what we don’t have.” (Diocese of La Crosse “Embracing the Year of Mercy,” pg. 67)

Embracing the Year of Mercy: Viterbo’s core values and its ethos of Servant Leadership speak directly to the heart of this work of mercy. To make sure we are grounded in our own search for truth, we have the beauty of the La Crosse area: the Mississippi, the trails, the bluffs and surrounding countryside—to enable a noble reflection of what we study in class. “It is my burning desire that, during this Jubilee of Mercy, the Christian people may reflect on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. It will be a way to reawaken our conscience, too often grown dull in the face of poverty…let us rediscover them.” (Words of Pope Francis)

Prayer: May we be shown what work of mercy we could do for the poor that would “reawaken” our conscience which may have “grown dull in the face of poverty.” Would that it could help us grow in greater mercy for others.