Had the 6:30am Mass and blessed throats. Then I went to Christ in the Marketplace, which is a wonderful program run by the men of the parish in which a man comes and shares his role in the marketplace in light of his faith. We’ve had great speaker on the first Fridays of the month. Today’s was Philip Brach, a parishioners and fathe of seven who is the Administrative Aid to Congressman Fortenberry of Nebraska. He spoke on the bill that the congressman is introducing to counter the HHH policy that was announced this week breaking – for the first time in our history – the freedom of conscience that is contained in the bill of rights. It was a fascinating presentation and discussion.
Then we had a school Mass as part of Catholic Schools Week and we blessed the throats of 500 students and guest. There were three of us priest but it took a long time and you’d have a 6 foot 8th grader followed by a 32 inch kindergarten student. You got dizzy from the change of altitude – but the children were so attentive and thrilled to have their throats blessed. Some of the youngest, when they were told the priest would put two candles under their chins, asked if they’d be lit. You could see some of them in the line, checking to make sure the ones ahead didn’t get lit candles.
Then I went to the nursing home and had Mass and blessed throats. Only about 14.
Then interviews for confirmation.
Lots of phone calls. Talked with Fr. Carmen. He is doing great and will return to some activity in a week or so. Marie is doing great. Joe Stoutz went to the doctor and was old that most of the pain was normal and he is improving. Didn’t hear anything about Fr. Dan. So keep him in your prayers. Made some social engagements and agreed to some religious events in some of our high schools.
Tonight, I helped with Communion and blessing of throats at the 5:30 Mass. There were a hundred people. I figured that we blessed over a thousand people today. It is great sacramental!!
After Mass, I stopped in our second “welcome new parishioners” dinner and met a lovely couple who got married here in October and like the community. That’s so great.
I stopped into the talk about the Bishops’ response to the HHH decision by a member of the Bishops’ Conference staff. He was good but I only stayed about 15 minutes.
Because now I am heading over to the rectory where there was a Mass at 6pm and now a dinner for all those couples who volunteer for our pre-Cana program. I’m looking forward to seeing them and eating some of Humberto’s special foods. It has been a good day.
Through the intercession of St. Blase, the bishop and martyr, may you be preserved from all illnesses of the throat and other maladies throughout this coming year, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen
What a busy day!! Was there a “day off” this week???? Be good to your SELF!