A Lifetime of Mustard Seeds

Dear friends on the journey,

Recently I was inspired to reflect on Vincent Van Gogh’s 1888 painting, Sower at Sunset, as a metaphorical image for my walk of faith and vocation that has led me to this very special day. Today at the 11:00 am Mass Bishop Marc Trudeau will commission me as a Pastoral Associate for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for the service of Padre Serra Parish.

In looking back on my journey, I can see where God, our good and gracious sower, has been planting mustard seeds of faith. After my infant baptism, the first seed I recall was at age four and, throughout my childhood, teen years and adult life, God has been planting, watering, tending, and guiding my faith. Along the way, there have been some significant encounters and moments, like today. In general, though, the deepening of my faith and progression of my vocation has grown in the simple and unexpected, in the humble witness of God’s hand at work around me, because of people’s generosity and influence, in suffering and healing, and in formation and my academics at St. John’s Seminary.

My ecclesial roles have included altar server, Eucharistic minister, volunteer, administrative staff, catechist, master catechist, business manager, and faith life minister. For 31 years, I have been living out my vocation of motherhood and marriage. Today all of these roles, experiences, growth, skills, talents, gifts and charisms come together. Today God’s call to the vocation as Pastoral Associate comes to fruition. 
By no means did I do this on my own. I simply could not. This journey has been filled with God’s grace, the Holy Spirit, the love and encouragement of family and friends, the influence of lay teachers and mentors, religious, and clergy who showed mercy and empowered me, most especially Fr. Patrick who has given me more than I deserve. And all of you parishioners and leaders who have inspired, encouraged and celebrated me.​

Let us pray today for one another and our parish that the seeds planted by good and gracious Sower, individually and collectively, will continue to bear fruit, especially for the vocations of the laity, for the emergence of new leaders today, tomorrow and the future to continue the work of the Body of Christ.

Siempre Adelante,

​Teresa Runyon
Pastoral Associate