Journeys of Hospitality

     Obviously, the purpose of taking a trip, especially a long one, is to reach the destination, the process may require unexpected adjustments along the way. Changes of plans, different climate, foods and modes of transportation are some factors to consider. Specifically, world travel affords many opportunities to to experience unfamiliar languages, customs and peoples. 

     I have had the opportunity to live in or visit three very different cultures. In 1965 four of us, Sisters Annita, Nicholas, Stephanie and I, opened a mission in Pomata, Peru, on he shore of Lake Titicaca high in the Andes. While living among the native Aymara people, we taught religion and cared for the sick. There in small, dark mud-floored classrooms and an under-supplied clinic, we “madrecitas” learned from the simple and warmhearted hospitality of the campesinos we served. 

     In 1985I accompanied a woman from Cincinnati to Nepal to visit a mutual Jesuit friend there and to learn about the Catholic mission in this third-world, mainly Buddhist country. We were edified by the religious fervor of the people, especially a Buddhist nun with whom we conversed in Kathmandu. We were also impressed by the respect of the children and their welcome to foreigners. 

     A third journey to Namibia with Sr. Mary Catherine in the winter of 2001best illustrated a community’s practice of hospitality. The Benedictine Sisters of Oshikuku shared their provisions, celebrations, prayers and their joy so wholeheartedly with us. For example, would you expect ice cubes in the African Heat? Or a special trip to a pharmacy for cold medicine, something beyond my expectation. As a “self-sufficient” American there, receiving hospitality was more difficult for me than giving it. 

     Upon reflection I know that the memory of these journeys still helps me realize that I need to accept hospitality gratefully from others, in order to respond hospitably to the Christ in them. 

Sr. Martha Walther, OSB