Usually I approach this blog at the end of the day which for me is about 8:30 PM. I’m often too tired to think much, but responsible enough to want to get something down before I miss another two weeks.
Today was the sabbath and I celebrated two Masses. The people were wonderful and the deacons at St. Isidore’s are interesting and make me want to know more about their callings. One of them preached at my Masses today.
Deacon Don, whose real job is as a private investigator is a convert. His mother, Episcopalian, refused to go to his baptismal ceremony in the Catholic Church. She did come to his ordination some years later. Businessman, father and clergyman, his life is full.
When he told us today of his grandson, William who is handicapped and functions at the level of a child, it was wonderful to see his affection for this boy, now a twenty-two year
old man. He called him “grandson” and “my buddy.”
Sometimes, my celibacy hurts. There are no children in my life and no grandchildren. And, no wife. Also, no in-laws, pediatric appointments or arguments with a wife. I know where everything is because there is no one around to move things except me. I also have to worry only about myself most of the time. Let your guard down and that kind of life can make one deveop into a crusty old bachelor.
My prayer life always helps to relieve any pity-party stuff going on in my soul about this
lack of family. Serving in the Church and meeting warm-hearted parishioners reminds me that I have a family.
Maybe I should pay more attention to how people address me after Church: “Hi, Father!”
“God bless you, Father.” Hey, Padre! Take care of yoruself, O.K.?
I know the Church is my family and it is enough for me.