benedictus

On December 20th, I will be celebrating my fourth year of ordination. As I finish writing my first line for the Corpus Christi bulletin, I have to pause and marvel. Four. Years. So many things have happened in those four years that I sometimes have the strange impression that I’ve been a priest for twice as long… Let’s see* : I presided over 65 weddings (!), baptized over 80 children, presided over 1,500 Masses, and confessed, hmm, at least one or two penitents (just teasing). And yet, as I start my ministry in this vibrant community of Corpus Christi [and beginning my second year at St. Anne's...], I feel like the ordination’s holy chrism is still glistening on my skin: sweaty palms, homiletic pangs, and much confusion (I get nervous these days just looking at the size of the English sacramentary!)

But things are good and God, as always, has been great : parishioners are kind and welcoming, kids are friendly, I have a sacristan and a secretary an assistant who have degrees in theology and christian studies – *and* a benefactor gave the parish brand new hockey nets! How can I not begin this new appointment with excitement and ideas for the future?

I know I’m following in the footsteps of a good pastor who was, with his Irish humor and wisdom, well loved by the people and the children. Changes in Mass schedule were also made as to allow sufficient time for me to preside the Sunday celebrations in both parishes. The next few months will be for everyone at Corpus Christi a period of adjusment. I ask my brothers and sisters – my mothers and fathers – to bear with the « jeune curé » and to pray Jesus Christ Our Lord for the abundance of His grace on our community. Come Holy Spirit, come Lord Jesus !