Dear Friends,

The Interfaith Peace Project continues its ongoing observance of International Women’s Day (March 8) and the International Day of Peace (September 21) by sending out reflections on the eighth and twenty-first of every month. On March 8, Fr. Tom started a 10 part series on the Beloved Community. You will receive a section of the series on the 8th and 21st of each month through July 21, 2025. If you miss a part of the series, you can find it on our blog at interfaithpeaceproject.org. If you have anything that you would like to share, please contact:

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

The Beloved Community
Part Seven
Inclusivity
by Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P.

The passing of Pope Francis a few weeks ago deeply touched the hearts of the people of the world. Francis taught us by word and example to open the doors of our hearts and institutions to one another. No one should be lonely or without a friend. Nothing inspired the work and life of this great man more than an open door through which all are cherished and all are welcomed. Francis challenged the throw-away culture by which people are treated like disposable objects to be used and discarded. Francis encouraged us to offer strong and loving friendship to one another. He exemplified what it means to be a person who includes everyone. Pope Francis expounded on the inclusion that makes us human in his Encyclical, Fratelli Tutti:

“Every human being has the right to live with dignity and to develop integrally; this fundamental right cannot be denied by any country. People have this right even if they are unproductive, or were born with or developed limitations. This does not detract from their great dignity as human persons, a dignity based not on circumstances but on the intrinsic worth of their being. Unless this basic principle is upheld, there will be no future either for fraternity or for the survival of humanity (107).”

Inclusion is essential to the Beloved Community, serving as the key that unlocks the door, extends a welcome, and cherishes everyone.

Inclusion welcomes the whole person.  In an inclusive community or workplace, no one needs to deny who they are or what they believe. Sometimes we deny crucial aspects of ourselves so we might be accepted and acceptable. Such a situation compromises the well-being of a person who feels shamed, afraid, or excluded.

We practice inclusivity when we are truly present to one another. Such an environment fosters friendships so we can grow together as we share and discover ourselves and one another. The open door symbolizes and realizes the open heart.

Finally, the heart of inclusion is the spirit and reality of welcome. Our community is in a better place, we are a better people, because the “would be other” is now a cherished friend in the Beloved Community. We must stop seeing one another as a threat. We are meant to be together in this one family of humankind.

Blessings to you, Beloved Community, for opening the door of your hearts in a spirit of welcome, gratitude, and peace. May all the doors of peace and welcome be open to you.