January 1, 2012 WHAT A YEAR!
This time last year my attention was centered on how to give Mom a decent burial befitting her age and honoring her achievements in life. She raised thirteen children from scant resources. Ten survived her. The big lesson and revelation for me was experiencing the fragility of human life and how suddenly the breath of life in this material physical frame is totally absorbed into the eternal present as she breathed her last. Life after death? Don’t talk me out of it after witnessing that experience.
Back home the elders say our ancestors continue to live with us and that the good spirits never cease to bring us goodies from beyond the grave. How very true! I had barely unpacked my suitcase after my arrival than the Bishop called me. Good man! He had very good and comforting words to assuage my loss. Then he said your Mom will be smiling on you in heaven because I want to make you my Chancellor and there will be a change of parish assignment as well. The official announcement will be on March 25, the Solemnity of the Annunciation. I’m not kidding you. I hesitated and nearly refused the offer. The rest as they say is history. The Solemnity of the Annunciation is the patronal feast of this Parish. And I believe Our Blessed Mother has been generously interceding for me since I arrived more than ever. I’ve come to love you, my dear parishioners. I love celebrating the Eucharist with you as well as the beautiful weddings. I was quite impressed by the number of marriages this year. I’m sure there are many more in the works. Please come out of the woodwork and declare your intentions. There will be a seminar on pre-cana marriage preparations at Richland Center on February 4. Register soon.
I felt privileged to share the loss and grief of many families who suffered the loss of dear ones. As we usually pray – they are in a better place. May the Good Lord grant them eternal rest.
My visits to the homebound were quite meaningful for me as they were moments to celebrate the presence of the Lord among the afflicted. I want to thank Patrick Finley for his companionship as we made these visits. And Pat, you have been extremely generous with your time as a sacristan.
The year has been quite eventful for me, especially the last six months as I tried to fulfill my ministry to the parish and serve the Diocese of La Crosse by working closely with our Bishop in my role as Chancellor. Two great Administrative Assistants – Sue Olson and Mary Jo (Chancery Office) made this possible. Thank you and God bless – Happy New Year.
Mom truly helped, sweet mother!!