# Footsteps – a reflection on the Father's loving care
*2017-01-11*

> Bill Young celebrates St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, shares a personal story of ministry, and reflects on the classic “Footprints in the Sand” meditation about the Father’s constant presence.

## St. Marguerite Bourgeoys – A Life of Unexpected Mission

Good afternoon, I’m Bill Young. Today is January 12, 2017, the feast day of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys. Though she may be better known in Quebec than elsewhere, her story teaches us that God often redirects our plans. Marguerite felt called to become a sister, but the convent in France turned her away. A wise priest suggested that God might have another plan, and indeed He did. A bishop from the New World invited her to help in Montreal, where she founded the School of Notre‑Dame and the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre‑Dame, laying the foundations for the city’s Catholic education.

## A Personal Journey: From New York to Florida

When I was transferred from a department‑store job in New York City to South Florida, I arrived on a six‑month trial. I lived in a trailer near St. Matthews Church in Hollywood, Florida. The pastor asked me to serve as a “commentator” at Mass—reading a prepared script that explained the readings. It was my first time speaking publicly in liturgy, and the congregation even applauded when I got it right. That experience sparked a lifelong love for proclaiming the Word, which eventually led to this very radio show.

## Footprints in the Sand – The Father’s Loving Care

The reflection we call “Footsteps” tells of a man who dreams he walks along the beach with the Lord. In each scene of his life he sees two sets of footprints—his own and the Lord’s. At the lowest, saddest moments, there is only one set. Distressed, he asks why the Lord seemed absent. The Lord replies, “My son, I love you and would never leave you. When you see only one set of footprints, it was I who was carrying you.” This reminds us that in our trials Christ is bearing us, even when we feel alone.

## Living the Truth: Urgency, Prayer, and the Communion of Saints

We cannot control tragedy, but we can respond with urgency. Pope Francis urges us not to postpone love for God, because tomorrow is uncertain. We are called to pray earnestly, trust in Jesus, and seek the intercession of saints, angels, and our clergy. The sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist, are the most perfect means of encountering Christ’s love.

## Receiving the Body and Blood of Christ

I encourage everyone to find a parish that offers both the consecrated host and the precious blood. When I served as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, I would consume any remaining wine after distribution; I never fell ill. Some parishes provide the option of receiving both together—often the priest dips the host into the wine and gives it by mouth—while others offer the blood only at a separate station. If your parish does not provide the blood, ask why and consider helping as a minister. Receiving the full sacrament deepens our union with Christ.

*Even in our darkest moments we are never alone; Christ is always carrying us.*