We remember Lawrence the deacon on August 10. He’s a favorite of mine whom I followed through the many churches and works of art in Rome that witness his influence on the Roman church. Some years ago I worked with others to produce a video on Lawrence. (See above.)
Lawrence reminds us that the Poor are the Treasures of the Church. I’m wondering if a good bit of Pope Francis’ present popularity comes from his strong commitment to the poor. He’s reminding the church-and the world too–how important the poor are to Jesus and those who follow him.
Augustine in a sermon on Lawrence says that you don’t have to be in charge of a major relief effort to be like Lawrence, however. Each of us, treasuring the poor in our own way, follow Jesus.
“The garden of the Lord, brethren, includes – yes, it truly includes – not only the roses of martyrs but also the lilies of virgins, and the ivy of married people, and the violets of widows. There is absolutely no kind of human beings, my dearly beloved, who need to look down on their calling.”
We’ all grow in the garden of the Lord. That’s a nice way of saying we’re all have something to give. Who are the poor we treasure?
The Victor's Place 
Good question. Keep challenging us. There are the poor in spirit we seek to serve in our parishes and the poor who struggle to survive and seek Hope. Where am I with both??? In ministry I think this has to be ever before us.
gail
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In the garden of life bloom where you are planted! St. Dominic (previously on the 8th) was always pictured with
a dog holding a torch.Perhaps bc he preached doggedly
In fiery words? His Order of Preachers (OP) were dedicated
To preach, bless and teach. They taught me and inspired me by their joy in service! Lawrence was the one tortured on a rack with fire who said while burning,”Turn me over, I am done on this side!”:-) What examples we have in these ones who went before us!
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Augustine in a sermon on Lawrence says that you don’t have to be in charge of a major relief effort to be like Lawrence. Each of us, treasuring the poor in our own way, follow Jesus.
So very true! Support of charitable groups that serve the poor and paying our taxes to provide fund for grants to help the poor.
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