The missionary brotherhood in Maryknoll is an uncomplicated vocation and witness in response to God’s call to mission. The brother is called to be a man of prayer, community, service, ministry and hospitality. Brothers often turn to the Gospel reading of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet as a clear foundation and anchor for the charism of the missionary brother.
“He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel. … He said to them, ‘Do you realize what I have done for you? If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet.’” (John 13: 4-5,12-14)
The Gospel story takes place at a meal, in community and the embrace of prayer. Jesus, our brother, demonstrates the depth of his ministry of service in the washing of the feet. He goes on to say, “I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.” (15) A missionary brother responds with his life to this call.
Once I was visiting my family in northern New York. My nephew, Kyle, was with two friends from high school. He introduced me as his “Uncle Wayne the Brother.” I could tell from their expressions that his friends had no idea what that meant.
Maryknoll Brother Wayne Fitzpatrick serves in mission in Guatemala in 1978. (Pat Goudvis/Guatemala)
Kyle began to speak to them about his experience of Uncle Wayne the Brother. He explained in a very practical and realistic manner what his uncle’s mission vocation was all about. In his own words, he expressed the importance of prayer, service, community and hospitality. Kyle ended by saying, “Uncle Wayne the Brother is a missionary who prays, lives with other missioners and helps those in need, especially the poor.” His two friends then nodded and said, “OK, we get it now.”
As a Maryknoll brother I believe my vocation is to invite others into relationship with Jesus, our brother. To say to others, “Welcome, make yourself at home,” and to spend time with someone who is discouraged or struggling. This, I believe, is an invitation to share hospitality of the heart and spirit. This is the uncomplicated vocation and witness of a brother.
Featured image: For more than five decades, Maryknoll Brother Wayne Fitzpatrick has answered Jesus’ call to be a brother to all. (Robin Ivy/U.S.)
