There is a time and place for everything (see Ecclesiastes 3:1); and summer is often a time for vacations. It is so important to get away and have a change from our usual routine.In the gospels Jesus even tells his Apostles at a very busy time, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mk. 6:31) I don’t know if I am going to manage any vacation this summer, although I am good about getting rest on my day off. I certainly hope you will be able to find time to travel and enjoy rest and recreation.
Of course, we all know that we should never take a vacation from our relationship with the Lord and his Church. In practical terms, this means remembering to pray every day (life is so much better with prayer!) and to participate in Mass on Saturday evening or Sunday. Among the many ways to find Mass near you is the website www.masstimes.org; on this site all you have to do is enter your city and state or your zip code, and information about nearby Masses is yours.
Some of you know that on June 15 I had cataract surgery on my right eye.It was a good and successful surgery, and I am now seeing through my right eye with a level of clarity and detail I have never experienced in my life. God has really placed us in a beautiful world! If possible, during your vacation find opportunities to enjoy the beauty of creation. Thanks to my surgery, this beauty seems more wonderful than ever to me. How blessed we are!
Another recent event was the 38th anniversary of my priestly ordination on June 25th. When I was ordained, I had no idea that one day I would be sent to the beautiful parish of St. Edward the Confessor and San Felipe de Jesús. I thank God for this daily, and I pray for you daily. Please pray for me and for all priests.
Gratefully yours,
