A Guide During Our Lenten Journey - The Inspiring Words of Professor Zaccaron

Just prior to Easter break, Campus Ministry and the Seton Hall University community experienced its first ever Lenten mission over the course of three days, March 24 – 26, led by Francesca Zaccaron, Ph.D., of the University Core. The mission titled “From Point A to Point B: How Words Take You from Me to Thee” brought dozens of people together in an attempt to enrich our Lenten journey. Each day, the mission consisted of 5 p.m. Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, followed by a mission talk offered by Zaccaron and quiet time for prayer and reflection afterwards. People then moved towards “The Harbor” (Campus Ministry Lounge) for a small bite and a social hour.

Zaccaron’s talks offered different points of reflection based upon the 10 pillars of non-hostile communication published by Associazione Parole Ostili. Day one offered thoughts on the principle of 'words shape thoughts.' Utilizing the figure of John Henry Newman as an example and someone we can look towards, Zaccaron challenged the assembly to think about what we let into our hearts. Are we aware of what we are letting into our hearts and do we perceive God in each moment? Zaccaron emphasized the importance of being aware – aware of what we are letting into our hearts, aware of ourselves, and aware of God’s presence around and within us. When we are perceptive and intentionally aware, then we can truly grow in God's image and likeness.

Day two offered thoughts on the principle of ‘you are what you communicate’. Using the works of renowned theologian, Bernard Lonergan, SJ, Zaccaron spoke about the importance of change. Ultimately, we change because of love, and Zaccaron emphasized the need to communicate lovingly. If we are able to communicate lovingly, then those we communicate with and we ourselves can be changed.

On day three, Zaccaron talked about the principle of ‘words are bridges,’ using the life of Mother Seton as an example. She articulated the importance of being open and making an effort to build bridges through our dialogue. When we make an effort, we are taking intentional action to build bridges and lovingly accept the people the Lord has placed in our lives.

Collectively, the three mission talks offered by Zaccaron revealed to those gathered how the ways we think and communicate with ourselves and the people around can make a profound difference in our day to day lives. When we embrace the pillars and principles of awareness, change and action, our lives can be transformed from a disconnected, self-centered life to a loving and perceptive life. What a great message as we all walk our Lenten journeys! 

Categories: Faith and Service