Each encounter with students calls me into deeper conversion. For years, a story about St. Oscar Romero’s conversion has been told. Once, while visiting a desolate rural village in the poorest outlands of El Salvador, Romero, the newly appointed Archbishop of San Salvador, was presented with a half-eaten tomato by a farm worker. Romero was repulsed at the sight. He turned to the priest who was with him and asked why anyone would offer him a half-eaten tomato. ‘This is all they have to offer you. It is their last possession, their sign of love, their gift to you.’
In the classroom, I see the parallels between Romero’s half-eaten tomato story and the life-long journey of conversion. Like Romero’s encounter with the poor, each class session with students may not seem particularly dazzling, productive or enlightening. However, like my fellow Brothers and Lasallian educators, I sympathize with the hardships of the youth we serve. Thus, each encounter with students offers an opportunity to listen to their ‘half-eaten tomato’ stories of hardship, success, and transformation.
In my opportunities to minister in New York City, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh, I recognize the consistent call to preach the good news. St. John Baptist de La Salle stated, ‘Young people need the light of watchful guides to lead them on the path of salvation. In the light of faith, you see things quite differently.’ Slowly, Romero began to understand the plight of the poor, their selfless love and faith, and the Gospel mandate to preach justice. Discernment includes embracing opportunities to reflect on my life experiences and allowing myself to be led in the journey to conversion forever.
Please continue to pray for me and all of the Brothers. Live Jesus in our hearts, forever!
