The Resource of Resources

Written by Ann Rhomberg

Ann and missioner Art DiPatri enjoy a cup of tereré, a traditional herbal tea in Paraguay, important to the Guaraní culture.

I'm delighted to accompany our neurosurgery missioners in Paraguay!  Of the many hats I wear as Executive Director, the most profound and life-giving one is that of making God’s love and goodness known. Our undertaking here in Paraguay aims to do just that. After years of conversations, discernment, and planning, we participated in ground-breaking meetings this week that formalized long-term partnerships between the Paraguayan Health Ministry, the Hospital Nacional de Itaguá, Caritas of the Archdiocese of Asunción, and Solidarity Bridge. Together we’ll work toward increasing neurosurgical capacity within the largest public hospital in Paraguay⁠—improving access to care for those with fewest resources. 

Throughout the remaining week, we will work closely with hospital staff to complete a detailed needs assessment and create targeted outcome measurements.  Over time, we’ll draw upon an array of human, monetary and supply resources to strengthen the existing infrastructure of the hospital. As we do so, we’ll also be drawing upon the Resource of Resources, these ‘Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit’.

Wisdom – Affinity for the Divine. Seeing things as they are and as they ought to be.

Understanding – Helping one relate all truths to one's Divine purpose; profound appreciation for God’s providence.

Counsel – Guiding others while maintaining a listening heart. Judging rightly what should be done.

Fortitude – Courage, endurance and willingness to stand up for what is right.

Knowledge - To see things from a Sacred perspective. That is, Love of all creation.

Piety – A recognition of "our Holy belonging” that keeps us resolute, in communion with our divine nature.

Awe - Joyful awareness of God’s grandeur.

I invite you to join me in asking for God’s grace throughout this project. May these Gifts of the Holy Spirit inform and nourish us as we sow love and seek justice. And may we continue to make God’s love and goodness known. Amen.