By Father James Gaffney

I don't know why I like jigsaw puzzles. They can be so tedious, elusive and frustrating. The pieces are all so similar and, after hours of trying to fit them together, I make very little progress. Life, filled with all kinds of events, is rather like a puzzle. Some pieces fit together more easily than others, and every piece is needed to complete the image. When change occurs, especially the kind that comes with surprise and force and is most unwelcome, it brings unique and urgent challenges to any community. A lot has been written about dealing with the tragedies since September 11. Terrorist acts have left us feeling insecure and uncertain, with questions about evil's seeming triumphs. Some have felt overwhelming helplessness and hopelessness. Natural disasters, accidents, war, and even events that occur in other parts of the world can cause similar reactions. We want to do something; in fact, we need to do something. But where do we begin? How can the church help people conquer the fear, anger, and hurt that tragedy brings?