Thank you, thank you, thank you a million times over. What a wonderful celebration on the occasion of my 40th Anniversary to Priesthood. I feel loved, affirmed, appreciated and celebrated in this milestone on my journey of faith. Nineteen of these years have been spent in Diocesan Ministry, the Office for Youth Ministry for 12 years, and 7 years in Haiti. These past 17 years it has been a pleasure being on the journey with you here in the Catholic Community of Sacred Heart.
How wonderful it has been to see people that I have met over these past 40 years and to celebrate with them. Many who were not able to attend sent wonderful notes sharing ways that we have touched each other’s lives. I am in the process of acknowledging your cards and notes, your kind words are so very much appreciated. Often in ministry one never knows how we have been able to influence people in their journey of faith. It’s great to know that in some way many of you have been assisted in the journey we make together.
During this jubilee year I am visiting my past assignments and taking the time to reflect on the many ways my life has been touched by the many people who gathered in so very many ways. Ah, the memories, and somehow the gift of memory focuses on all the good and great events. The challenges and difficulties seem to fade in the dust.
Many people worked hard to put these events together, and I know it is a danger to list names and forget someone. I never want to leave anyone out; however, Gina Russell who organized 2 receptions including deciphering my address book and sending invitations with the help of Pam and Tina, all of those who prepared food for the reception in the parish hall; Annmarie Smith overseeing music rehearsals with the Sacred Heart Beats and all the cantors; Steve and Gregory Chaplin for the wonderful music throughout the evening at Willowbrook. A sincere thank you to all of you who took the time to come together and celebrate with me, my family, and several priest friends, at Mass, in the parish center, and at the restaurant. It was way past my bedtime when I went home, but sleep came quickly as I recalled the many faces of people I have met over the years. Thank you, thank you, thank you, a million times over!