A Blessing in Disguise <br/><br/>

Four years ago on September the 11th, terrorists destroyed the World Trade Center in New York.  This event shocked the world and it was a wake-up call for many; forcing them to further contemplate the meaning of many things around them, of how futile and empty worldly things can be.<br/><br/>

Many people showed compassion towards those who are suffering, even in the midst of an impersonal and cold metropolitan city.  New York has transformed into a community of compassion, and many New Yorkers have returned to the church.<br/><br/>

Behind the many acts of charity and compassion, there are stories of great sacrifice.  Brother Roger Schultz, who has just reached the age of 90, was killed on August 16th by a mentally disturbed woman in the middle of evening prayer, in the midst of a thousand young people.  When he died, he was still poised for prayer.<br/><br/>

Brother Roger established the Taize community in World War II in order to hide refugees of war.  It later became a center of spirituality as every year young people from around the world gather in Taize to pray together.  Some stay for weekend, others stay for up to 3 months.<br/><br/>

Br. Roger’s death occurred just a few days before World Youth Day.  It seems to be a coincidence, and one can say that it is God’s will.  This old man who spent his life serving young people, is perhaps now praying for these young people from his place in heaven.  In his 2005 letter to world youths, Br. Roger quoted the prophet Jeremiah, and wrote: “God has plans for a future of peace for you, not of misfortune; God wants to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)<br/><br/>

Let us not be discouraged, for Christ has conquered the world.