September 11, 2023

The Interfaith Peace Project continues its ongoing observance of the International Day of Peace, September 21, 2023, by sending out this reflection, “The Season of Peace”, by Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P. We invite you to share in our effort to provide a reflection on the twenty-first of every month by sending any articles or information that you would like to share to:

Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P
[email protected]
925-787-9279

SEASON OF PEACE
September 11-21, 2023
Continuing to Observe The International Day of Peace
by Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P.

The Season of Creation begins on September 1st, the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. The observance concludes on October 4^th, the Feast of St. Francis. For good reason, St. Francis of Assisi is recognized internationally as the “patron Saint” of Creation. If the traditional spirituality heard the Word of God in the pages of Creation, Francis experienced the beauty of God in the splendor of Creation. This lover of the poor and advocate for peace speaks to us today as we struggle to respect the Natural World as the common home of humankind. St. Paul of the Cross, the founder of the Passionist Community, put it this way, “When you are walking alone, listen to the wisdom proclaimed to you by the flowers, the trees, the shrubs, the sky, the sun, and the whole World.” A new and vital consciousness is emerging in our time. We are beginning to realize our interconnectedness with the Nature World, without which we would cease to exist. The time has come to live peaceably with the World around us. 

Crucial to this effort is living peaceably with the world within us. Each and every one of us can be a person of peace. This peace is resting in our hearts. We can tap into its beauty and energy whenever we choose. The World around us often tempts us to be reactive, retaliatory, greedy, and self-centered. The flowers we see and the birds we hear invite us to the peace living in our hearts. The Creation around us invites us to discover the beauty within us for the sake and well-being of all.

Over the years, September 11 to the 21^st has become a Season unto itself. The tragic events of September 11, 2001, shocked the World, and we have never been the same. As we prepare for the observance of the International Day of Peace on September 21^st, we pledge anew to be people of peace and understanding. Deep in the heart of the Season of Creation is the Season of Peace. We hope and pray these observances will remind us to respect Nature and one another each and every day. 

Benazir Bhutto, Former Pakistani Prime Minister and the first woman to head a Muslim state, powerfully proclaimed, “I have found that those who do achieve peace never acquiesce to obstacles, especially those constructed of bigotry, intolerance, and inflexible tradition.”

Blessings to you, Holy Community, for striving to be people of understanding, reconciliation, and courage in your pursuit of peace. As you honor the World around you, cherish the World within you. Discover anew the peace of your heart. Never miss an opportunity to share the peace in your heart.