The virtue of humility and a humble church

In the past 20 years that I have visited leprosy patients in Asia, I have learned one thing: Being around leprosy patients has made me aware of the vulnerable humanity that we all share. This humble experience also shows the importance of compassion, which can only be achieved through joyful humility.

In practicing the virtue of humility, I will once again visit my friends suffering from leprosy this year from September 7th to 15th. I consider it a privilege to be able to celebrate the Eucharist with them and administer the sacrament of baptism to their children. I am also grateful that I can share my material goods with my lepers’ friends.

It’s not much, but it helps the leprosy patients who are often forced to withdraw to remote places, deep in the forest. Each family (there are between 200 and 300 families in total) receives about 10 kilos of rice, 1 kilo of dried fish, 1 liter cooking oil, 1 carton of instant noodles, 1 bottle of fish sauce, 1 kilo of sugar, and salt, washing liquids. They also receive necessary medical supplies. The children receive a bag of sweets. These goods suffice for about three weeks.

Each time, I am able to see my lepers’ friends, I am very happy.

The first reading of this Sunday is taken from the book of Sirach, also known as Ecclesiastes, a collection of wise insights on the futility of worldly pursuits and healthy enjoyment of simple things in life as a gift from God. Within this context, humility is regarded as the epitome of praiseworthy living.
The virtue of humility fosters social outreach by encouraging an accurate self-perception, a focus on others’ intrinsic worth, and a genuine willingness to serve, leading to increased empathy, better relationships, and more compassionate engagement with the community. Humility is not weakness but a strength that allows one to let go of pride, recognize their own limitations, and actively seek opportunities to help others by addressing their needs and burdens.

True humility, rooted in truth and acknowledging one’s place in relation to God, motivates a desire to help others, preventing pride and fostering a grateful relationship with the divine.

A humble church is a community that embodies the attitude of Christ through humility, service, and selfless love, making it an effective vehicle for evangelization by not seeking personal gain or elevating its own status. In a humble church, evangelization is not just about words but a way of living, where members become transformed by divine love and share the Good News of Jesus Christ through their transformed lives and compassionate presence.

Humility is also important for the style of a good leadership. Humility in leadership is the practice of acknowledging limitations, valuing others’ contributions, and being open to feedback to foster trust, collaboration, and continuous growth within a team. Humble leaders prioritize their team’s success over their ego, empowering employees