We Would Love
to Keep in Touch!
Over the past few years, we have invited some of our La Salette Missionaries from other countries to come to the United States to share their mission insights, experiences and vision with their fellow Missionaries by living with them and to preach in various parishes and share their enthusiasm by giving mission appeals. It has been a mutually enriching encounter. I asked Father Joseph Peethuruthel, MS, from India to tell what this year’s adventure has meant to him.
“Namaste!” That is how, with my hands folded in front of me and my head slightly bowed, I would greet you in my native language. I have performed this traditional Indian greeting many times during the last six months while here in the United States. I came here to live with my religious brothers, to get a taste of life in the United States and do mission appeals in various dioceses.
I have been a La Salette Missionary since 1996, and was ordained a priest on April 21, 2001. This is my first mission experience outside of India. I now have many wonderful memories of living among my fellow La Salettes in numerous communities and of doing ministry in a variety of parishes.
I was blessed with many opportunities to travel across the country doing these mission appeals – a total of 14 parishes – where I preached and shared my mission experience in my homeland. In each parish I faced changes, some slight and others more considerable, in lifestyle, culture, liturgy, etc.. And I saw many local attractions and historical sites.
One constant reality that impressed me very much was the hospitality I received. People were very loving and concerned about me and my accommodations. It was a lesson for me and an incentive to learn more about this new culture.
I came to recognize the wonderful ministries and services that La Salette Missionaries are doing here, and the way they are appreciated by the people they serve. The local La Salette communities in which I stayed – especially Hartford, CT, Saint Louis, MO, Attleboro, MA, Enfield, NH, Friendswood, TX, and of course Danielson, CT – gave me a taste of authentic community living. Their community prayers and liturgies are living highlights of the message of our Blessed Mother at La Salette.
On the whole, this sojourn has been an inspiration for me to continue my life as a La Salette Missionary Priest. I love my La Salette community and have grown to love America.