Grateful (Theo R)

First, I express my immeasurable gratitude to God for calling and sending me as a FIC Brother. God is always faithful and willing to forgive my mistakes and unfaithfulness. For 40 years, God has been loyal to me. I believe what is written in 1 Corinthians 1:9: "God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful." It is only because of His faithfulness that I have been able to live my life as a religious brother until now. At the beginning of my being an FIC Brother, I never thought I would get to this point.

Secondly, I thank the FIC Congregation for accepting me as its member and who has also always faithfully and patiently accompanied my vocation and mission. I received so much of God's grace through the FIC congregation. As the Lord says, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." (Matt. 19:29). I have also experienced this, I have an abundance in terms of spirituality and also many brothers and sisters, family. Because of the FIC Congregation, my abilities and talents were fully developed. I develop myself as much as possible and dedicate my life to the best potential for many people through the congregation. I am also grateful to be able to serve the congregation, among others, as a teacher, writer and congregational leadership service. My fellow brothers are loyal to me, ready to forgive and give me a chance to live better. And I try to be good and to do good. 

Third, I would like to thank my family, especially my parents. They have allowed me to become a FIC brother and pray for me at all times. Because of their encouragement and prayers, I have lived my life of calling and mission to this day, hopefully to the end of my life. I also thank my brothers and sisters who support me. With them living a good life and getting along well with each other, it is a very positive support for my life. 

I also thank my fellow brothers in this Emmaus community who have given me real support and prayers. A peaceful and supportive community that supports my ministry as a member of the General Council and nourishes my spiritual life. I received a lot from you all, and until now, I have not been able to give much to my fellow brothers in this community. For this reason, I apologise and continue to ask for support and prayers wherever I live and undergo missions. May all of you overflow with blessings so your lives and works will be fruitful. Thank you for organising this event to mark my 40^th anniversary as an FIC Brother.

Dear Father and brothers, thank you for your prayers and attention to the simple celebration of 40 years of my life as a brother. May you be overflowing with spiritual happiness and adequate health and remain optimistic in old age that the congregation will continue in the provinces. Thank you for the example of your' enthusiasm and loyalty as brothers, and stay happy in your old age. This gathering has become more alive and warm because of your presence.

I thank our founders for starting and passing on this great charity work. May they always pray for us, and we be faithful to their idealism. I am also grateful to Our Lady, who constantly prays and accompanies me in times of joy and sorrow in living my calling. 

Let us continue to make efforts to be brothers to one another and all humankind (especially the poor and needy), both in receiving and in giving love.

Thank you, and may God bless us.