As we gather in celebration for all that we have accomplished, I invite you to join me in thinking about where we are called to go, and who we are called to be. Despite our common roots here at Marquette, this is likely very different for everybody. I feel called to be a healer; my studies in nursing and theology have set a framework for what it means to encounter people in need and lift them back on their feet, but these are far from the only disciplines capable of healing.
I would wager that every person here can think of a way to frame their career path through a healing lens. I am reminded of this calling often, but especially when I am nourished by the Eucharist, which is also referred to as communion. Given that today is most likely our last day all together, I can think of no better time to reflect on the importance of community in our vocation.
Communion encompasses the union of Christ and His church, but also the union of all of us as believers. How often do people from all walks of life gather together and eat the same bread and drink the same cup? Considering all the division and polarization in the world right now, this seems especially necessary. As children of Christ, we are reminded that we are both many and one. Just as we look out for ourselves, we are called to do so for the voiceless and the marginalized.
It should come as no surprise that Marquette’s mission also has a significant emphasis on community. In fact, Marquette was ranked as the No. 1 Most Engaged University in Community Service. An overwhelming majority of us have taken classes that incorporated service learning or volunteered. Beyond that, I feel our class is especially engaged; there are many conversations of volunteer opportunities, many of us serve as student organization officers or leaders, and many of us offer help to one another, be that academically or emotionally.
Jesus tells us that the way we treat those cast out by society is, effectively, the same way we treat him. The importance of this teaching is the recognition that Christ is within all of us. All of humankind is made in the image and likeness of God. When we live as servant leaders, we serve our neighbors and God together.
My hope is that although our time at Marquette is coming to an end, our commitment to its mission will be everlasting. I hope that we can all look at each other and recognize each other as brothers and sisters in Christ, and I hope that our Catholic, Jesuit education drives us to action and reminds us of our own identity. Marquette has reminded us many times to Be The Difference. Knowing that, let’s ask ourselves this: how are we called to be in service to others? How are we called to go forth and set the world on fire?
