What does it mean to “have a voice”? In a modern context, it usually refers to the democratic ideal of each person getting to cast an individual vote with respect to some issue or election. In a similar way, it can also mean having influence or power when it comes to decision-making at the level of institution, committee, or family. More importantly and fundamentally, however, “having a voice” is the capacity for relationships: literal air from within me, formed with the very lips of my mouth, accompanied by a facial expression and an intention, sent out in mission to other people, literally touching their skin and inviting processing in mind and heart. Let’s spend time in prayer, listening attentively to the Word who calls us by name with great dignity and respect (Jn 20:16). Let’s be like the Good Shepherd (Jn 10:11) and speak in thoughtful and caring ways that call others into communion. Let’s constantly confess that “Jesus is Lord” (Rom 10:9) in whatever words we are using and, in so doing, join our voices with angelic choirs in perpetual praise (Rev 5:13).
Ave Crux, Spes Unica.