Update from Deacon Peter
Dear Friends,
Some of you have had the privilege of seeing Deacon Peter and his wife Rhonda at Mass over the past several weeks. It’s such a blessing that he is strong enough in his healing journey to join us for our Sunday liturgy. While he has been able to join us for Mass, he is still in the middle of treatment. In particular, it would not be good for him to come down with a cold or some other sickness. For that reason, they do leave quickly after Mass. I ask that you respect that space in order to help protect our brother from getting sick. I do know that Deacon Peter has felt very loved and supported by this community. Many of you have asked about him over the past couple of weeks, so he agreed to write a little blurb for us in the bulletin. Let us continue to pray for Deacon Peter and Rhonda. May God restore his health soon. We look forward to the day that he can join us at the altar for Mass once again.
Fr. Stephen
My Brothers and Sister in Christ,
I have been asked if I would update you on my well-being. I can honestly say that the journey to recovery has been long and at times grueling and difficult, but looking back after these many months, I reckon we’ve come a long way. I have had to learn to be patient with what seems to be slow progress, ups and downs, uncertainty at times and physical limitations. St. Paul reminds us that when we find ourselves in our weakest moments in life, we find our greatest strength in God. I find this to present itself to be forever true. It is God who carries us in the darkest moments, when we most discover our human fragility. We are dependent upon the good Lord for everything. Something which we often overlook and even take for granted. He is always there for us, and he provides the grace to keep going, even when we question our ability to do so. With God all things are possible, I believe is an understatement. We do well when we live in the assured reality and with absolute certainty of the Father’s love for us.
Faith carries us, assures us, and comforts us in ways we do not often recognize. I have found that the challenges of life bring us closer to God. My recent journey has stretched my perspective of living life more fully, the importance of family and friends, the efficacy of the sacraments, appreciation for the most wonderful parish community to which I belong, and the world around me in which I live. I find myself to be more grateful than ever, more positive, more aware of the precious gift of the shared life we are given. As Christians we are a people of hope, who trust in Christ in whom we find life. Thank you for your continued prayers and support!
Most Sincerely,
Deacon Peter