Morning Prayer – Chapel Reflection
January 18, 2011
Nancy Scannell – Asst. Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
In St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, Chap. 1: 10-30, Paul warns us about
becoming divided due to strong allegiances to church leaders. This passage has given
me great peace as I try to ascertain where I belong in God's plan.
For the most part, I have always had a Pollyanna attitude about my faith. Why does
Paul see the Church as divided? I was raised Catholic, and my husband Tim is also
Catholic. In fact, I went to an all-girls’ Catholic school, and Tim went to an all-boys’
Catholic school, both on the south side of Chicago.
This morning, I spoke with Prof. David Weber about Paul’s message, and I was
confused about Paul’s perspective. I understand that the Corinthians were being
persecuted, and I am not. Prof. Weber asked me to consider the conflict between the
Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. He asked me, “Are you a Bears’ fan?”
“Of course!” I replied. “Are you a Packers’ fan?”
“Yes,” he said, “I’ve been a Packers’ fan my entire life. In fact, my father was the team
chaplain.”
I couldn’t believe it. In my life, I have never met a walking, talking Packers’ fan! I told
David that although there is conflict, I do not hate the Packers.
He replied, “You’re weird.”
And that was the end of that conversation.
So what brings about this division and conflict? Is it ego? Is that the basis of our division
as Paul eludes? Is ego the basis of pride, the most dangerous of the Seven Deadly
Sins?
Where does this division come from?
My husband Tim and I have five children, and the four oldest graduated from a local
Catholic. Our youngest son, who is now in 8th grade, opted to attend the public middle
school when he entered 6th grade. Please don't get me wrong. Tim and I didn't simply
let him make such a big decision at the whopping age of 10. The school just wasn't a
good fit for him - too many rules. I suspect some of you went to schools with a lot of
rules - ie what you wear, tuck in your shirt, wear a belt, etc. Mind you, I wore a Catholic
school uniform skirt until I was 18 years old. Anyway, we made the switch for our son,
and I was terribly heart broken to leave the school community in which I was so
accustomed.
When it came time for religious education, we joined a different parish because I
desperately wanted Kevin to have a strong relationship with Christ, and I felt her needed
a fresh start at a new place with family-oriented program. We were graciously
welcomed, and we now belong to 2 parishes.
We attend religious education at one, and I lector at mass at the other. I thought we'd
have to choose, but First Corinthians reassures me that I do not.
We have dear friends at both parishes, and we also have dear friends who are like
many of you - Lutheran.
I teach at this wonderful Lutheran University. The diversity here has taught this south
side Chicago native that accepting people of all faith, and respecting their views,
moreover being interested in the differences between us, has enriched my life
immensely.
A few years ago, I was teaching "On Christian Liberty" in Core, and I had a student In
the class who was from China.
After class, she stopped me in the hall and asked, "In this country, do Lutherans like
Catholics?"
I responded, "I hope so."
I attend services here at the Chapel on occasion, and there is no difference in the
enlightenment that I receive from sermons here or homilies in the Catholic Church. I am
moved to be a better Christian, and I learn more about the life of Jesus and how He
sacrificed himself for me.
There is not difference in the joy I feel when I think of Jesus whether I am here or at the
parish where I grew up.
Unity among all Christians is key to a better world. And acceptance of people of other
faiths will only broaden our perspectives and strengthen our faith.
Paul is called to “proclaim the Gospel.” So are we. Through the “foolishness of our
proclamation”, we are saved.
So I ask you, “How will you proclaim the teachings of Jesus Christ today? How will you
create unity among believers?”
Consider your call.
I’m blessed. Today, I will meet with students, and as I look at you, “in thy Light, I see
Light.” My job is shine my Light for you. And I am grateful every day.