The flesh and blood of living together

Newton Lih
Seminarian in advanced formation with Missionaries of the Precious Blood

Each year in formation has its changes and developments, and this first year in advanced formation included huge ones, with the arrival of a new housemate from the Viatorians. Marc, a fellow seminarian of Haitian descent, moved onto my floor. It’s been 17 years since college and over 10 years since I’ve had a roommate. As Jesus told us, “Look, I am making all things new” (Revelations 21:5). The first thing to renew was how to share a bathroom. Marc is bright and vivacious, courageous in learning English. I am a bit grumpy and solitary, though I try to reach out for community. Reconciliation was the hallway between us, and a willingness to come together no matter the friction. When you cannot pass by without bumping into each other, peace was the natural turn in our shoulders as we passed one another.  

Marc and I also shared a few classes together. I had just returned to CTU after a year in Columbus, Ohio, with Father Steve Dos Santos, Brother Thom Bowman, and Father Greg Evers. Many of my classmates were now a year ahead of me. I felt apprehension toward how I would connect with new classmates. Marc and I were strangers together, and there was solidarity in reaching out for new friendships. 

At the heart of our spirituality is the conviction that the Precious Blood of Jesus flows in the lives of every person and that we are called to one other in recognition of that precious blood. There is also the fact of our warm-bloodedness. As human beings, we regulate our temperature through the warmth of our bodily veins. The Body of Christ needs our warmth. That natural flow brings us into connection with those around us. I feel that warmth every time I spend time with our Companions and members. Their warmth welcomes me into our community, despite cultural and generational differences. It felt right to share that warm-bloodedness with our new Viatorian housemate. Glory be to the warm blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, now and forever!