I am grateful to the many individuals who have inquired as to whether I have relatives affected by the tsunami in Japan and add these thoughts to their kind inquiries and words.

May this natural disaster and true human tragedy become an invitation for us to enter into the ongoing work of reaching out to the poor and those in need and seeing in their face and in their need the face of love.

May we say “Yes” to this invitation to practice the spiritual works of mercy. May this human tragedy become an occasion of grace and invitation to love.

Blessings to all, particularly those who are suffering through the hardships of natural disaster and political oppression.