'I have given you a model to follow'

For many Christians throughout our land and the world, this Sunday begins "Holy Week," the most solemn time of year in our faith tradition when we remember and re-tell the story of the suffering and death of Jesus.

In many traditions, Holy Thursday focuses on the Last Supper story from the Gospel of John when Jesus washes the feet of his disciples. As he concludes he tells them, "Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me 'teacher' and 'master,' and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another's feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do." John 12:12-14

These are powerful words calling us to much more than just remembering, but to putting our faith into action. A teaching of service and support to our brothers and sisters is a part of all religious traditions. I am impressed with the concerted effort of many in our community embracing the Capital City Circles Initiative, an effort to help elevate people out of poverty and prevent homelessness. This initiative is unique in its approach because it involves the collaboration among various members of our community, across socioeconomic and cultural lines. In a sense, it is a modern-day washing of feet in action.

With the participation of Carson City elected leadership along with leadership from the business and faith-based sectors, this program creates a network of relationships that support and lift up struggling families to help them help themselves find a new potential and a new voice, which is then passed on to other families. "As I have done for you, you should also do."

Holy Week takes us to Easter, celebrating the triumph of love over death. How that gets lived out in Carson City is up to us.

For information or to participate in Capital City Circles Initiative, e-mail DPhippen@ci.carson-city.nv.us or call 887-2190.

- Father Chuck Durante is a pastor at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community and a member of the Carson City Christian Ministerial Fellowship.