A symbol eliminates the need for words. The heart of each of us sees and responds to whatever we encounter in a unique and valuable way. It is therefore essential that each of us interpret symbols for ourselves. This is what the symbol of the heart and world means to me today.

The heart represents our hearts, the Society, and the Heart of Jesus. Its openness calls us to become as vulnerable, transparent and welcoming as Jesus is. It is in the shape of a ribbon, to remind us that communication among us is an essential part of our heritage and essential to our survival. It surrounds the whole world to remind us of our internationality. We are called to be open, to embrace, to treasure each other.

At the opening of the heart is a three-dimensional cross. It reaches deep and extends wide. The cross is placed at the opening of the heart because, if we are as open as the world and Jesus call us to be, we will suffer. Without the willingness to suffer, we cannot enter the hearts of each other, cannot be open to the world, or enter the Heart of Jesus.

Update (USA), June 2000