2014 in Review

This is a year of many changes. I am now the pastor of a parish in Hazleton, but still giving retreats (albeit fewer). The food pantry moved into the building next door, requiring changes in our administration ... and some patience as things are still being fixed up for our new office.

I've played violin at a couple of local nursing homes with a pianist friend. Her father is in one of the nursing homes, and she brings him to orchestra practice to enjoy the weekly concert. If he especially likes a piece, he claps even when we know we've made some mistakes and stop to practice them away.

Gratitude is important. Like my friend's father, I try to express thankfulness for the good that I see around me, even when I have reservations or important criticisms of the rest of the package. I feel as a pastor that I should try to channel St Paul, who sometimes appears to be telling his people that they "are" what in reality they "should be" but are not yet.

I have few words, even fewer for public viewing, but many prayers. I appreciate your letters and cards and emails. May God grant you peace and all that is good.