by Francois Duquesnoy
(St. Peter's Basilica, Rome)
Our National Patron Saint always appeals to me precisely because he isn't as "in yer face" as his brother Peter. Andrew the Introducer (see John 1:41, 6:8-9 and 12:20-22) was a description I heard in a sermon once (Fr Donald Nicholson of Blessed memory) and it struck me that was his gift: enabling others to encounter Christ and unleash their gifts. It takes much grace to work behind the scenes - we all secretly or even openly adore attention and it can be hard to be "unappreciated". It takes even greater humility. But "not my will but thy will be done" is one of Jesus's most powerful prayers in Gethsemane. The release of self and apparent greatness in order that God's will be done and his Kingdom revealed, enabled and advanced. Blessed Andrew, inspire by your example and aid us with your prayers.
