I have been rather pensive of late...

...as I get caught up in all that needs to be done, wondering what to do next. Every now and then, life sends a message.

The pastor whom I serve as master of ceremonies, Father Franklyn McAfee of the Diocese of Arlington, was taken to the hospital last Tuesday night, after losing sensation on his left side, particularly in his arm. I can say this with confidence, that as this is written, reports elsewhere on the internet about his suffering a stroke are premature. While this is not ruled out, they are still conducting tests, and we are optimistic. [UPDATE: It has been confirmed as of 4pm local time, that Father suffered a minor stroke. He is expected to return to the rectory before month's end, but will still require rest and therapy.] In the meantime, he has been getting some much needed rest, but remains in his usual good spirits.

The External Celebration of Corpus Christi at St John the Beloved this Sunday at noon, with a Missa Cantata and Procession of the Blessed Sacrament, will proceed as scheduled. Of course, we ask that all remember him in their prayers.

Nearly thirty years after leaving the Midwest, to begin my exile on the East Coast, the good Father is one of the few real spiritual fathers I have. It is a great honor to serve for him every Sunday, and a great privilege to work with the young men who assist him alongside me. I look forward to his triumphant return.

“It is said an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence, to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words: ‘And this, too, shall pass away.’ How much it expresses! How chastening in the hour of pride! How consoling in the depths of affliction!” — Abraham Lincoln
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