Saturday, September 13, 2014

Sad post...

Sad posts are hard to write and edit...

Three women who have been a part of my life are on my mind today.  It always seems to come in threes...

First, Mary, a parishioner from Hull has passed into the Lord's hands.  She "adopted" me when I was in Hull the summer of 2013.  She has sent me letters and bulletins every week, prayer cards and checks on a regular basis.  I was waiting to surprise her with the news that her checks paid for my new chalice.  I was hoping to show it to her next month when it came back from the jewelers.  She knows now, I am sure.  Rest in peace Mary.

Second, Mrs. D. is in hospice now.  She is my wife's brother's mother-in-law.  That may not be a direct relation, but she was a big part of that side of my family's life.  They tell me that she is declining quickly.  May the Lord's plan be fulfilled.

Thirdly, and most personally, my sister is back in  rehab.  The brain tumor is not growing, but she has most of the symptoms of a stoke (but there was no stoke).  The doctors don't really know what happened, but she was mostly unresponsive for 2 days.  She may or may not be coming home after the stay in rehab.  The doctors have suspended her chemotherapy until they know more.  Only time will tell if home or assisted living is in her future.  She is in her 28th month after diagnosis.  The average lifespan is 15 months for this brain tumor.  God's will be done.

Your prayers are welcome.

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Petition for Ministry of Diaconate


September 7,2014
Sean Patrick Cardinal O'Malley, OFM. Cap.
66 Brooks Drive
Braintree, MA    02184

Your Eminence,


As a Candidate for Priesthood of the Archdiocese of Boston and in my fourth year of theology at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, I respectfully request that you call me to the Order of Deacon.

I declare that I make this petition of my own free will and intend to spend my life in the service of the Church. In doing so, I freely and fully accept all the obligations that will be mine upon receiving Holy Orders.

I understand the lifelong commitment to celibate service and embrace it freely. I accept completely the obligation to pray the Liturgy of the Hours faithfully in the name of the Church.

I also understand that upon ordination to the Diaconate, l will be incardinated as a cleric of the Archdiocese of Boston and am prepared to make a lifelong commitment of obedience to you and your successors.

Indeed, I make this request of my own free will, with no other motive than the service of the Church. I am fully prepared to undertake all obligations related to the diaconal ministry.

As I request this call to Diaconate and accept its obligations, I rely on the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to help me persevere in my vocation.

Asking your blessing and prayers, I remain
    Sincerely yours in Christ,

    Christopher L. Lowe