Dear Family,
Archbishop Jim Keleher is in town for a couple of weeks. The first thing he usually says is, “What can I do for you?” Although I’ve only known him for five years since I’ve been here, I suspect that question pretty much has shaped his 58 years of priesthood.
He had a lot of jobs over the years and so I think a lot of bishops said, “Well, since you asked, what about…?” I suspect that maybe many didn’t precede the assignment with, “Well, since you asked…”
The spirit of willingness is a way I can reflect on what I’m thinking and feeling. (Reflection comes when you’re stuck in hospitals or houses. It beats staring at walls or televisions.) I hope that at some point in your life you have had the experience of someone with that spirit of willingness. They made you glad to be around them, not just because of their offer but also because it’s so much easier to breathe and smile in that kind of an atmosphere.
Over the last four months I’ve heard a lot of, “Is there anything I can do for you?” I know that I’ll never be able to directly thank all the people who have been so kind, but I’ve thought that if I really am grateful, then maybe infusing a little more of my life with a greater spirit of willingness might be a way of saying thanks.
I’m sorry that I was missing again last Sunday. I thought I was back for good, but the procedure wasn’t totally successful. There was a great nurse in the operating suite at Holy Cross who actually knew the name of the procedure I went through. It was the first time I heard all the parts of the approach named. You think I can remember it now? I’ll have to give Jodi a call.
I’m going to ask you once again for your prayers, even if you see me this weekend – which I hope you will. It isn’t all over yet, and prayer will help bring it to a good conclusion.
Excuse me now while I go back to reflecting.
PRAYER TO THE DIVINE HEALER
Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to You.
Allow Your healing hand to touch our Pastor, Monsignor Jim.
Touch his soul with Your tender compassion.
Touch his heart with Your powerful courage.
Touch his mind with Your great wisdom.
Teach him to trust in Your divine providence.
Preserve his health and heal him so he may continue to serve You in peace at Your altar.
Grant this through the loving heart of Jesus,
present in the Most Holy Sacrament of the altar. Amen.
(adapted from a prayer composed by Fr. Bill Mylchreest.)
