Fr. Camilo’s Letter
Dear Friends of St. John’s,
Since arriving here at Saint John’s on August 1st, I have had the opportunity to encounter Christ in many ways. But first, please allow me to introduce myself. I am Camilo, your brother, your friend. By the will of the Spirit of God, I have been sent to walk this journey of faith, along with all our brothers and sisters who come daily to our doors here in the City of Newark.
One of the most compelling images I have in mind is when everyone is preparing and plating the meals in our kitchen. So many hands together with one purpose, just to feed the poor! Saint Augustine says, “What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy.” The work we do here at Saint John’s is the work of love that brings solace and dignity to every human person that comes to us. OG is one of our clients with whom I have had the chance to exchange life stories and good laughs. In these informal conversations with him, he has taught me that the work of God is happening in the world even though it’snot in the headlines of the newspaper.
Dear friends, you are the hands and feet of Christ. Your generous contribution helps us to accomplish the mission of Christ, “Because I was hungry and you fed me”, Matthew 25:35. Thus, Christ is everywhere, in the meals being prepared, in the hands of volunteers, in the hands of those who receive, and in the hearts ofthose who support us and make it possible.
Thank you for being part of this family and thank you for allowing me to be part of this family as well. I strongly believe that Christ nurtures us through each other in ways that we cannot even imagine.
I pray for God’s blessing upon you and your loved ones today and always. Even though I do not know you all personally yet, I am praying for your intentions, for your safety, and for peace during these difficult times.
The Lord be with you,
Fr. Camilo