As you may have observed, over the last six months or so I have been increasingly favoring my right side, limping to the point that last week I had to begin utilizing a cane to keep from surrendering to the sharp pains being experienced.  Three days ago, the numerous procedures conducted on my lower body to pinpoint the pain’s source yielded a definitive diagnosis: for various reasons, my right hip needs to be replaced.  I am relieved to know exactly what I’m dealing with; I am relieved, too, because the experience was so positive when my left hip was replaced ten years ago.  There is a complication, however . . . because cortisone was recently injected into the area, three months must lapse before my operation can take place.  What does this mean for all of us?

I expect to be hospitalized for a few days early in January 2020.  No doubt, I’ll need several weeks at home to recover before gradually easing back into the mainstream of ministry.  Between now and then, I must lighten my daily schedule where and when possible to accommodate an extensive pre-op regimen and to do what I can to keep the pain level tolerable without resorting to full doses of the prescription drugs at my disposal.  But there’s a blessing in this interruption.     

Too often the enormous contributions to the life and work of this great parish made by our leadership team and the many faithful folks who call this parish their spiritual home are overlooked.  Too often what I am blessed to see daily remains in the shadows.  I believe, by removing the cataract of normalcy, the Lord is opening our eyes of faith to see more clearly: that we are sons and daughters of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, prayer warriors all . . . that our Father has endowed us with the gifts and talents needed to glorify Him, regardless of the circumstances and challenges we might encounter . . . that we have the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us in this and all things . . . and we have each other!  My dear ones, in a very real sense, we are all limping along in one way or another, holding hands as we follow the Way home – it’s a great comfort and joy to be in your company!

With an attitude of gratitude,