Today we remember Francis Xavier (1506–15 52) missionary to the Far East*

                                                Psalm 20:1

            May 

            the 

            Lord 

            an-

            swer 

            you 

            in 

            the 

            day  

            of trouble; the Name 

            of the God of Jacob defend you.

*Francis  Xavier: One of the original 6 companions of Saint Ignatius of Loyola who took vows to become The Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) “In 1549 Francis arrived in Japan, a highly advanced kingdom as yet unknown to Westerners. 

      in light of the sophistica-tion of Japanese culture, Frances changed his ap-proach to mission. Pre-viously he had seen himself building on barren ground. Now he felt the need to comprehend the

      local culture, to discover it's late and strengths and virtues, and to find ways of connecting these with the gospel message.   - Give Us This Day

                     

                   A timely reminder that a little humility goes a long way. Across the board.