Message from Campus Ministry
Dear Members and Friends of RIS,
Recently the Year Book Committee invited me to write a little description of Campus Ministry, a new title at RIS. I certainly was pleased with their invitation. Most people probably can guess that this Ministry has something to do with church, prayers, catechism classes, a Catholic presence on the Campus. True enough. But, there is more, as found in the spirit of the Philosophy and Mission of RIS. Campus Ministry protects and promotes these sacred RIS traditions. Sometimes I get a chance to hint at what might be up-lifting, encouraging, or stimulating during Morning Assemblies. Sometimes chances pop up by a visit to a classroom or a chat in the corridor. Campus Ministry thrives on friendship. Jokingly (but yet seriously) I say that my job is “to oil hinges”. It would be great if all members of the RIS family worked together with understanding and care. It would be great if all of us would be happy in what we do and give cheer to all who work side by side in RIS. It would be great if we could do our job graciously and encourage our peers, affirming them in their attempt to do their job. It doesn’t always work out that way. Life gets tough at times. A drop of “oil” of affirmation, a pat on the back, or just a smile of recognition might go a long way toward earning cooperation or a bit of sun-shine to a troubled soul ! When I leave my office for a trip around the school I sometimes mention that “I’m going out to oil some hinges”. Among other things, Campus Ministry is to “oil hinges”. Jesus spoke kindly to those around him, calling them “His friends”. Jesus oiled hinges.
I find great encouragement in seeing that I am not alone in this vision. The great majority of RIS members are doing the same. I see the majority “oiling the hinges” of RIS, making it a better place to be, and a strength to anyone just passing by. I am grateful for this cooperation and inspiration. You oil my hinges !! I thank God for this warm companionship. “Campus Ministry” cannot be a one-person job. Every RIS member is surely challenged from time to time to be up-beat, promoting a happy, holy, and cooperating spirit.
If what I write here is not “the true picture of RIS”, then we pray about it and trust that God’s love for all of us will make it true very soon. God bless you.
Father Leo Travis
Campus Ministry
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