I receive this question often in my work in donor relations. My answer usually begins with God’s unconditional love. It includes recognizing the suffering present in our world today, walking alongside those who are struggling, and standing at the foot of the cross with those who are most in need.
The reality is that, for many of our donors, the Passionists are simply present.
We do not turn away from what is uncomfortable. Instead, we enter into it with compassion and humility.
We do not search for the perfect words to heal someone’s pain. Rather, we offer the gift of presence and the grace of a listening ear.
We ask questions, listen deeply, and never rush a conversation because of the clock.
In the end, our greatest privilege is expressing gratitude, not only for the gifts entrusted to us, but for the relationships that make those gifts possible.
Recently, our donor relations team had the opportunity to visit St. Agnes, a Passionist parish in Louisville, Kentucky. During our visit, we met parishioners of different ages. In our meeting with parishioners, it became clear where the Passionists differ. Their strength lies in community, openness, and a sincere willingness to meet people where they are. In the room, there was a sense of family, even among those who had just met. Age didn’t matter.
We shared meals with retired Passionists and Passionist Alumni, gathering around the table in the same way families do. Stories of life in earlier years and memories of Passionists who had shaped their journeys flowed freely.
At different moments, the room was filled with laughter; at others, tears. Through it all, we shared something deeper than a meal. We shared life together.
I truly believe we were created for community. We are meant to accompany one another through seasons of joy and seasons of hardship, celebrating life’s victories and carrying one another through its burdens. We are not meant to walk this journey alone.
So when people ask me, “Why the Passionists?” my response is simple:
Why not the Passionists?
May the Passion of Jesus Christ be always in our hearts!
