Service.  That is what we are celebrating this weekend; and for Fr. Jim, later this week.  And as we both celebrate a combined 65 years of service in the ordained priesthood, I cannot help but think of more than 65 years of service that my mother gave to me and to our family.  Truly loving service.

The stole I will wear this week is one my mother made more than 35 years ago (she had to have it ready for my first Mass, so it was finished before my ordination).  It reminds me of the joy I have felt in my service as a priest and the joy I can still feel in all that my mother did and meant for me.  Back in our day, (Fr. Jim’s and mine) ordinations were often on Mother’s Day weekends.  Our mothers would forget their day and celebrate ours—selfless service.

Thank you, mom!  Thank you, people of St. Michael, for making my years of service here (13 of the 35 years) such a joy.  Thank you, Lord, for your call to all of our hearts!