One thing about becoming a bishop is that it is traditional to take a motto. It can be in any language, although many take it in Latin (for more of a universal touch, I suppose). After much reflection, I’ve picked mine: COR ET ANIMA UNA.
The expression comes from Acts 4:32, which describes the members of the early Church as having been “one in heart and mind”. I love this concept. The heart, in Biblical terms, is the centre of decision-making, while the mind is the place of reason and truth. The concept, as I see it, as that the original community worked at having a common vision of things, and then chose to act according to that common vision. Acts 4:33, the subsequent passage, speaks of the early Christians also placing their goods in common, to take care of the poor… but an obvious prerequisite to common action is this unity in heart and mind.
Unity has been a core theme of my own spiritual life for many years. In fact, I’d say the desire for unity is even a part of my personality — as I look back, it certainly has shaped many of my choices. When I did a retreat back in 2001 based on the exercises of Saint Ignatius, the theme of being a “man of unity” arose very strongly, and in a positive way. Certainly, this desire for unity has been at the heart of my desire to promote ecumenism, as well as to enter into dialogue with people with different perspectives on life and faith.
In more practical terms, unity has also been a core theme for my leadership style. I remember when I was named parochial administrator (temporary pastor) of a parish some years ago, I worked at helping the team truly “be of one heart and mind”. In fact, you could say that was our “mantra” as we sought to lead the community. As I was reflecting on what my motto as a bishop should be, I couldn’t help but think about those days and bring them forward in my mind.
The Church of Montreal, of course, is truly a microcosm of the universal Church. People from many languages and cultures live here, and our challenge is to build a diocesan Church that is truly one. “Cor et anima una” seems to be to be appropriate, not just for me, but for this small piece of the Kingdom of God that is found in Montreal. If I can help to be a source of unity for our Church in this very diverse diocese and city, I’ll be very happy.