We gathered one Wednesday evening for "Soup and Substance," a lenten program he created some years ago to combine learning with fellowship. This Wednesday night's jam-packed gymnasium was mostly filled with well wishers who knew it would be one of Father's final events before his summer departure.
Rows and rows of chattering people sipped soup from plastic bowels and pulled pieces of french bread from the simple wicker baskets on each table. The good Father himself wheeled one of the soup stations through the gym, pausing for a few photo's and calling people by name as he graciously served them.
Then it was time to kick back and listen to a half hour or so of his favorite memories. As usual, his humor-filled delivery was warm and engaging. His innate timing for a well developed punch line is impeccable and we laughed frequently. There were also insights to remind me of the sacrifices he made to lead a shepherd's life.
He moved from his home to the seminary when he was only 13 years old, never to return. He spoke fondly of two parishes - including ours - where he was able to stay on for 10 year stints - the maximum allowed by the Bishop and rules for such things. Other roles were shorter, some with agreeable living and career arrangements and some perhaps less so. But for every challenging situation or period, he readily cited balance with other friendships and accomplishments. And it seems clear that he's lived a rich, full life at the ripe old age of 70.
Now he'll be available to pitch in and help with area churches as needed - on his terms and timing, rather than the bishop's, he added with a wink.
Our family has noted many times over the years, how hard it must be to lead a priest's life - serving tirelessly and obediently, and without a family unit to fall back on in their aging years. As though they are somehow cheated and we have the better fare.
But perhaps not. Even the apostle Paul saw great value to both single-celibate, or married life. (read 1st Corinthians, Chapter 7).
Having witnessed that sincere joy in his recollection of service for 5 decades, and when I realize how many lives our pastor has touched, how much he can point to that has been accomplished and how he is loved by literally generations of people...I smile and am glad at just how fortunate he is.
A happy, blessed, and well-deserved retirement to you, Father!
What do you believe?
