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Good morning Kristin,
What stood out to me this weekend as I listened to the Gospel reading recounting the story of Emmaus was not the accompaniment of the disciples, but the radical sense of hospitality, and ultimately belonging, that they shared with the stranger on the journey.
I reflect on how I greet strangers on my walk up First Hill. I smile politely, greet them, but, admittedly, I would grow uncomfortable if they decided to walk with me the rest of the way. The disciples go further. They walk with the stranger, are open with what they are feeling, and invite him to dinner.
But where I see the story move from accompaniment and welcome to belonging is in the breaking of the bread. I think back to my first holidays with my wife’s family. I was welcomed with open arms and made to feel “at home.” But when I went to help in the kitchen — watch out! That was a privileged place meant for only those who belonged. We have all experienced this to some degree when we are guests and extend an offer to help, only to be turned down.
The Emmaus story is different. Where belonging comes to life is in the breaking of the bread. Jesus, the stranger, was not only welcomed to share a meal, but was invited to break the bread. He was made to feel at home. It is then in the breaking of the bread that their hearts burn, realizing in whose presence they have been walking and sharing.
This weekend’s Latino Summit was an example of belonging. It was a moment when a group of people who are often invited to join our communities moved from simply attending to being invited to participate, to share their hopes for Catholic education and to discern how our schools can continue to grow in fostering cultures of belonging.
It was a moment, when they walked into their in-laws’ house and were invited to partake in the making of the meal!
With gratitude,
NICHOLAS FORD | Superintendent
Office for Catholic Schools | Archdiocese of Seattle
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