today's readings are Acts 16: 22-34; Psalm 138 and John 16: 5-11
While I have faced many challenges and difficult times in my 30 years as a priest, I am quite thankful I never had to face what St. Paul faced. More than a few times he was stoned, and in today's first reading, we hear of how both Silas and himself were beaten with rods. Now that is suffering for the cause of Christ!
I have already received many messages and cards of congratulations for this anniversary day of ordination, for which I am grateful, and I look forward to the Zoom meeting this evening in which the rosary will be prayed. Such wishes, blessings and prayers are joyfully welcomed, especially as the years pass by.
As I reflect on these 30 years, I cannot help but remember the many parishioners and parish staff I came to know in the 5 parishes of the Archdiocese I have served in. Their caring and support and help have been essential, as have been the love, support and prayers of my family and friends. But today I would especially like to recognize the presence, graces and sustenance I have received over these years from the Holy Spirit, who is referred to as the Advocate in today's gospel. How many times has the Spirit guided me in my ministry!!
Today once again I ask for your prayers. But not just for me, but for my classmates whom I was ordained with on this day in 1991 at St Michael's Cathedral by Archbishop Aloysius Ambrozic (his naming as a Cardinal of the Church had not yet happened):
Fr. Charles Anang, who is a Professor at St. Augustine's Seminary; Msgr. Michael Busch, Pastor of St. Jerome's, Brampton; Fr. Paul Gaudet, who is now serving in the Archdiocese of Ottawa; Fr. Ian Riswick, Chaplain at St. Bernard's Convalescent Home in North York; and lastly, the pride of Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Fr. Scott Young, Pastor of St. Christopher's Parish in Mississauga, who grew up on Courtwright Rd. in the north end of the parish and was a dedicated member of our parish until he entered St. Augustine's Seminary.
Please pray for them as you pray for me. God bless you!