I was up and ready for the 6:30am Mass. The scriptures were about the time Paul and Silas were in prison and an earthquake opened the cells and broke their chains. The jailer, when he saw it was ready to commit suicide because he had failed in his job. Paul assures him that no one has escaped. The man asked for salvation and he and his family are baptized. It seems to me the point of this account is that we needn’t worry – even when things are very bad. God has a plan and as it unfolds peace and salvation will come.
Then I went back to bed and slept till 9:30. Then I trimmed my beard and showered and went to the office. I worked on my talk and did more paperwork.
Then I had the 11:00am Mass and gave the same reflection. Worked some more at the desk. Had lunch, took a nap and got ready to go to the Pastoral Center.
Today was the annual Jubilee Mass for all the priests celebrating 25, 40, 50, and 60 anniversaries. Many of the other priests come to this event and it is one I always enjoy. Since I was celebrating my 40th, I was one of the concelebrants at the Mass at 4pm. Five of the 7 of us ordained in 1972 were present. Msgr. Tom Kane, who was an assistant in my parish when I was a kid, celebrated 60 years. John Dakes, who was a teenager in my first parish, St. Camillus was celebrating 25 years and was the homilist at the Mass. His homily was wonderful and delivered beautifully. Msgr Bazan, who was with me at Camillus celebrated 50 years. At the dinner, I spoke on behalf of the 40 year class. I think it went well – and again, when I have a few moments, I will print it here.
After dinner, I drove to Maggie’s. The program for the Mass is done and looks great. We played card and as always it was so nice to be with my family. I left at midnight and just got home. I have Mass at 8am tomorrow, so I should have a good nights rest.
Just being with the priests – I think there were about 150 there,Two bishops and the Cardinal – just made me feel at home. I thought of the scriptures, “How good it is when brethren dwell at one”. And tonight it was!!
It is with great pleasure we wish you congratulations on the 40th year anniversary.