Oneness in God - Reflection

Have you heard of the “Wood Wide Web”? This describes the vast, hidden network of fungi that weaves beneath the surface of the forest, linking the roots of trees together. Through this underground system, it is known that trees share water, nutrients, and even information with one another. For instance, mature trees can support their younger in a shaded spot by sharing nourishment through the fungi web. At the same time, the fungi benefit as well. Since they cannot photosynthesize, fungi draw sugars from the trees. In return, they provide vital minerals to trees and enhance their water absorption.

Contrary to the belief that nature is a battleground where only the strongest survive, the Wood Wide Web theory reveals a deeper truth: life thrives through cooperation and coexistence.

Reflecting on this, one cannot help but notice the networks that nourish each human life. The food on our table, so easily taken for granted, represents the labor of countless hands, the contributions of soil bacteria and sun, of wind and rain, which are involved at every step. Even the simplest meal becomes a reminder of dependence, gratitude, and participation.

These understanding flows both ways. Each everyday kindness, every word of encouragement, a moment spent caring for the environment, or the simple act of sorting recyclables adds resilience and goodness to the world. It may seem such a small action, but so is a single fungus strand, which together they form a system of great strength.

This interconnectedness does not stop at the present. The ground we stand on is enriched by the labor and wisdom of those before us, and what we do now shapes the future for next generations. In truth, we live within a single, boundless system, across time and space.

Furthermore, as Christians, we recognize that our network extends beyond the material world—into the spiritual communion that unites all creation. As we believe God is God of the living and every created being dwells in God, all who have touched our lives with love and kindness are still sending us blessings and prayers, even from beyond this world. So would be all holy people who we admire and ask for intersessions, including St. Matthew, our patron Saint, whom we celebrate this coming Sunday.

As we prepare to celebrate our parish anniversary, it is a fitting time for us to remember not only our individual journeys but the community and relationships to which we belong—and, above all, to God, the source of every blessing. Virtue is not only an individual accomplishment but flourishes in community.

We are called to live not out of self-centered striving or fear, but from gratitude and hope. In this spirit, I invite you to pause for a moment every day to remember this oneness, the web that holds us, and our opportunity to be a blessing to the world. May God grant us life in abundance and make us instruments of blessing for others.

From Fr. James