This year marks the 60th anniversary of Serra. We are fortunate to count among us a number of longtime members, persons who have belonged to Serra most of their adult life. I have seen moving examples of how much they have given to Serra and how much Serra means to them.
I was once a guest at a Serra meeting where the club honored one of its founding members. Various Serrans spoke unabashedly of their respect and love for him. They told warm, touching, funny and endearing stories that reflected the man's character and the contribution that he made to their lives. They embraced him in his wheel chair. I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. It is tragically rare that we let our loved ones know that we cherish them, but here was one time when friends let their affection shine brightly. This tribute was particularly striking because the gentleman died shortly after that evening. In May, I participated in the 40th anniversary of the Serra Club of Tiffin (population 20,000). It is a club with many, dedicated, long-term members. Eleven of the charter members are still active. The current president had attended the 1955 charter as a college student with her future husband, a charter member. Many priests and sisters joined in the anniversary celebration. They spoke gratefully about the club's activities and presence in their town, parishes, schools and religious communities. I looked around the gathering, realizing that many of the Serrans there have been meeting biweekly and working for church vocations since I was a little boy. That kind of steadfast commitment is something special!
Studies show that most people move in and out of clubs and organizations quite rapidly -- usually within 2-3 years. What makes the Serra experience so much more long-lasting for so many people? What holds members?
The answer is complex and differs from person to person to some extent. But I believe there are some simple, common elements to many Serrans' experiences.
First, they believe in the Church and care deeply about Serra's particular mission of encouraging vocations to priesthood and religious life. They know that there is a crucial need for this work. They realize that Serra does not have the answer, but they also believe that within their spheres of influence they can do something, and that by joining together with others of similar conviction in Serra, they can make a difference.
Second, and equally important, our members persevere at such a high rate because they find community and support for their faith. They find a place where they can explore Scripture, Catholic tradition and Church teachings with others. They encounter an alternative vision that critiques societal norms, giving them Christian perspectives on their family life, their work and their relationships. They find men and women like themselves who are trying, however imperfectly, to live as disciples of Christ.
Does this description match your personal experience of Serra? I hope that it does. Whether you have been in Serra 5 months or 50 years, may your participation enhance your life through what you contribute to the Church in Serra and through the friendship, education and guidance that you receive.