This past Tuesday, we ended the morning Mass by singing "Let There Be Peace On Earth."  Afterwards, I went to my office and found the latest issue of the Arkansas Catholic newspaper, and came upon an article about the death of Father Daniel Barrigan (94 years old) who, as a Jesuit priest, was an outspoken advocate for justice and peace, especially in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. During those years, Father Barrigan took on the heavy burden of "peacemaking" in various ways, including speaking out against United Sates military involvement in Vietnam in  a rally in a Protestant Church in New York City.  His strong voice against the proliferation of nuclear weapons led to actions which landed him before courts and into prison on more than one occasion.

Reading about Father Barrigan and his courageous words and actions reminded me of my uncle, Father Joseph Biltz who, no doubt, was inspired by Father Barrigan and others to speak out and act in the cause of justice and peace in our diocese that led him to face much opposition, persecution and even arrest on a few occasions of protest.  In the case of both priests, they were, at times, shunned and criticized by fellow priests and lay people as they stayed steadfast in what they were doing.

As we celebrate Pentecost this weekend, and the coming of the Holy Spirit that led the apostles to be fearless preachers of the truth, I give thanks for those who have followed in their footsteps, like Father Barrigan and Father Biltz, ready to face the consequences of their actions and always the inner peace of knowing that they were being faithful to the Gospel and to Jesus Christ.

The song I mentiond at the start of this column begins with these words:  "Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. . . ." May we all strive to let the Holy Spirit work in us and through us to be ambassadors of peace, justice, mercy and love in ways that give honor and glory to God and that brings us, one day, to the joy and peace of God's Eternal Kingdom.