Always Start with Thanks
I have noticed that even the most prayerful people panic when others ask them to lead a prayer before a family meal, or a meeting, or even a formal dinner. My advice to any of you who might feel such panic or anxiety is to ALWAYS BEGIN WITH GRATITUDE.
Thank God
The theme of the gathering and the people gathered will give you ideas for content, and then the second part of the prayer can be what the group or even you need from God moving forward. This is very close to my heart now because as I settled into the silence of my recent retreat, what surfaced very powerfully and very quickly was my gratitude to all of you as a community of faith, and to so many of you who were SO generous to me during my recent celebration of Priesthood and Life. I apologize to those whom I have yet to thank in a more personal manner. The remainder of my notes of gratitude are on their way. Thank you for your love and support and generosity!!
A Letter from Cardinal Cupich
Just prior to leaving for my retreat, I received a letter from Cardinal Cupich which is the result of several conversations with him personally, Bishop Larry Sullivan our Vicar General, our Vicar Bishop Tim O’Malley, and the leadership of the Priest Placement Board for the Archdiocese. The result of this discernment is that I WILL NOT be retiring on July 1, 2027, but instead on that date I will begin a six-month sabbatical, returning to Holy Family in January of 2028 and officially retiring July 1, 2028.
Let’s all pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit as we transition into new leadership here at Holy Family Catholic Community.
