FROM THE PULPIT: HOW WE CAN PAY TRIBUTE

The world has been rocked by funerals recently. First, Princess Diana died tragically in an automobile accident in Paris. Then, only a few days later, Mother Teresa left this earthly life. Two figures who has an enormous impact on the world died within a few days of each other. These two women well known in the world media for their work on various causes. Princess Diana worked with victims of AIDS, for the elimination of land mines, and many other charitable cause. Mother Teresa's name was synonymous with the poor. Her mission was to help as many poor persons as she could. She said we could see God in the faces of the poor.

The outpouring of grief has been amazing and touching at the same time. Millions of us watched Princess Diana's funeral on television, even if it meant getting up early in the morning to do so. Millions also watched Mother Teresa's funeral from Calcutta. These events captured our attention, and for many, our hearts. How will the princes make their way through life? What will the world do without Mother Teresa? These questions have occupied the press for a few weeks now.

Elton John is releasing a new version of Candle in the Wind, with the lyrics rewritten to honor the memory of Princess Diana. This recording is predicted to be the #1 seller of all time. The proceeds from the recording are to go to a foundation established in Diana's name. The success for Mother Teresa has been named. What are the media asking about her? Will she have the media savvy and presence of Mother Teresa? Her answer is that she wants to carry on the mission and work with the poor that Teresa so ably guided. What can we do?

We can buy the Elton John record. The song is a good one, and our money will go to a charitable foundation. We can read more about the Sisters of Charity and their works of mercy in India. The lives of these two women call us to something more though. We are called to do works of mercy for our fellow human beings, we are called to work for charitable causes, not just give money to them. Money is important to any cause, but our personal involvement means so much more.

If we want to honor Princess Diana and Mother Teresa, truly honor them, we will continue to work for the causes they loved so dearly. It is important to grieve their loss and to honor their memories. One lesson they clearly taught us was to get involved, to make a difference in the world around us. Let each of us find a cause(s) about which we care enough to invest our time and our money. If we do this, we will be paying the greatest tribute to these two amazing women, and living out the gospel call, "love your neighbor as yourself."