One of our famous Dominican Saints, St Catherine of Siena, has some very interesting quotations. My favourite quote from her is “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire”.
I always wondered what that meant, personally for me. I have come to realise that when I am open to God’s Invitation to be who I am called to be, then I will make a difference in this world.
Being an Educator by profession, I have had the privilege to set many worlds on fire through educating children, especially the underprivileged. I can see that I have made a difference in their lives through who they have become in years gone by. I can see the fruits of my labour through their success. Their success is my success.
Today, 5th October 2022, is Teachers Day. I am grateful to God for the gift of teaching. Teaching and education comes in many forms. Our parents are our primary educators, for they have taught us our good manners, moral values, social etiquette and taught us our prayers and gave us a firm foundation in our faith. Without them, where would we be today? We owe our parents a great deal of gratitude.
Education in the faith is where my strength lies. I love teaching the Catholic faith to young people through Catechism and preparing them for the Sacrament of Confirmation. I feel blessed to be able to bring young people closer to God as well as people in general. Giving Retreats is what I am passionate about. I don’t just journey with people spiritually, but it also gives me an awareness of the deep love God has for me personally. My own spirituality deepens and my own world is set on Fire with God’s grace and love.
Being a teacher in the classroom is one way of setting the world on fire, because to children you are not just their teacher, but you are their hero. Everything you are as a teacher, comes alive through your personality, your giftedness, how you teach your particular discipline, your sense of humour, your way of speaking, your inspiration through words are all ways and means to set the world on fire.
There are other professions that are equally important. Nursing for example is so important to any patient. You might not realize it, but you are setting the world on fire through your healing ministry, love and compassion.
Doctors are also important in setting the world on fire. God uses your hands to heal people. So I urge you to feel blessed to be able to use the gift of healing God gave you to make a difference in people’s lives.
Whatever profession you are in, let the words of St Catherine of Siena inspire you. Go out there and make a difference. Set your world on fire.
Sr Columbia Fernandez O.P
5 October 2022