She walked the true walk

The body of Christ has lost a sister of great beauty. Her name was Mary Rose McGeady, the Catholic nun responsible for reviving and growing the largest ministry for homeless youth in our country. She ran Covenant House, which provides shelter, food, and social services for homeless teens across North America. Sister McGeady took over Covenant House after the priest that founded the organization was forced to resign over questions of sexual and financial shenanigans. Donations were evaporating and services were being cut. Here is part of the organization's tribute to her:

In an interview with Catholic New York when she announced her retirement in 2002, Sister Mary Rose said that before took on the president’s job at Covenant House, she prayed.

“I told the Lord if he wanted to save this place, he’d have to do it and he’s done it,” she said.

Kevin Ryan, the current head of Covenant House, who was among those present at her bedside when she died, called Sister Mary Rose "the Mother Teresa of street children" and "a holy tornado of determination and compassion."

"She had a huge soft spot for kids, but she was no one's fool," Ryan said. "Come hell or high water, she was determined to clean up Covenant House. From ashes, really, she pulled Covenant House forward and saved hundreds of thousands of kids."

During her tenure, Covenant House expanded its reach dramatically, with new crisis shelters, street outreach and long-term residential programs for homeless youth in Canada, the United States and Nicaragua. Covenant House now reaches more than 57,000 children and youth in six countries each year.

A holy tornado of determination and compassion. That is what Jesus called all of his followers to become in their walk of faith. And even if we don't run a large organization serving those in great need, we should be known for our integrity and heart for others.

There was never any question of her service of God and others. She lead by example in the fire of her love for others.

As you look over the body of Christ, ask yourself a simple question. Is Sister Mary Rose the rule or the exception when it comes to Christian leaders in America? Since her life was worthy of remembrance by the New York Times, it safe to say her walk of faith stands out.

Many people in America call themselves "evangelical" Christians. For many that means talking about their belief in Christ. Big deal. Sister Mary Rose was a true evangelist for the love of God. She tempted people to believe in Christ by her love for the unloved, neglected, and abused. Her love will be missed. Her walk of faith was a blessing for others.