Every year people across the country and around the world observe the third Monday in January to remember Martin Luther King, Jr. As a champion for justice, peace, equality, he left an indelible mark on the lives of people across the globe. Dr. King is an iconic representation of what it means to remain peaceful and steadfast in the face of adversity. We must continue to remind ourselves that Dr. King calls us to recommit ourselves to inseparability, service to others, and love.

As a leader for justice, equality and an advocate for compassion, Dr. King called attention to the importance of service. “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: what are you doing for others?” As we observe this day, we remember that Dr. King’s life’s work was in service to others, in service to ALL, without distinction, service to the nation. This is the same sentiment expressed by Blessed Mary Angela and the Felician Sisters as a part of our Franciscan values. The Charism of the Felician Sisters is to imitate Blessed Mary Angela’s boundless love of God and surrender to God’s Will in compassionate service, total availability, and concern for the salvation of all people. We must work consistent with the example set by the sisters to be transformative, compassionate, respectful of the human dignity of all, pursue peace and justice, and stand in solidarity with those in need. That is at the core of Dr. King’s work. Ensuring the needs of the underserved and vulnerable were met through advocacy and action.

As we reflect on the work of Dr. King and the values of the Felician sisters, we must pause to consider the ways we can be of service and bring about change in our communities. We must continue these efforts of transformation and service. As a part of the vision of the Felician Sisters– to be centered in Jesus, Gift receive, Gift given, this eucharistic message codifies our belief that we have an individual and institutional responsibility to respond to injustices and work toward a more just and equitable future. Dr. King’s legacy is a call to action—an invitation to collective change-making.

As we celebrate MLK Day, let us remember that we must remain focused on what matters – freedom and equality for all. We must continue to lay the proper foundation that equips and positions our community as front-runners for equality. Let our commitment to social justice and service impact generations to come. Let us not stand in silence to racism, inequity, injustice, denied opportunity when these evils manifest before us.. Do not sit silently on the sidelines as injustice and persecution persists. As Dr. King said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Let us continue to be motivated by his words and strive to build better communities for ourselves and the people around us. As we remember and honor Dr. King on this day, let us contemplate our efforts in making this a more just and equitable world. As Dr. King stated, “Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.” Decide!