On Monday I had the honor of addressing a luncheon in support of the Police Athletic League (PAL). Here’s a copy of my remarks.
Police Athletic League
Thanks, everybody! It is an honor and a joy to be with you!
My nine years as archbishop of New York have taught me a high regard for the Police Athletic League. This pleasant luncheon gives me the chance to praise the PAL, to thank those who lead and direct it, and to salute those good people – – here you are – – who support it.
Come to think of it, the PAL and the Catholic Church in this great metropolis are natural allies aren’t we?
So does the PAL need the investment of generous community movers and shakers. Thanks for coming through.
By the way, that fact is not un-noticed by our kids. When they see quality people coaching, tutoring, listening, intervening, and helping, well, they invariably sense, “These folks are giving of themselves for me. I must be worth something.”
Our kids see this, too: people of grit who believe and belong, who dream and dare. The bigger the problem, the more expansive is the hope. That lesson is even more important than learning to throw a three-pointer.
The PAL and the Church are in the business of hope.
Wednesday, we Catholics begin Lent, forty days of prayer, sacrifice, and charity as winter winds down leading to warmth, light, and new life at Spring, at Easter, which happens always, not coincidentally, to coincide with Passover. For Jews and Christians,
spring always conquers winter,
light trumps darkness,
hope beats despair,
life overcomes death.
We learn that at Church; we learn that at the PAL. No wonder I love you and enthusiastically support you.
We are people of hope . . .
And, besides, Spring training starts Wednesday!