Red Was The Color of the Day

At the ten-thirty mass Pentecost Sunday came in with singing, banners and lots of red! Both the priest and the Deacon looked wonderful in their red vestments trimmed in gold. If you happened to feeling a bit blue, you spruced up when the banners trailed by long red and white ribbons entered the church. Red gladiolas adorned the church and the altar had a red cloth covering it.

Today was also the celebration of Spirit of Christ Catholic Community because Pentecost is the day of the Holy Spirit. After Christ's resurrection and His ascension the Holy Spirit was manifested on Pentecost with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in fulfillment of Jesus' promises. Usually pictures will show a flame over the apostles' heads on Pentecost. The priest mentioned that as he looked around at the congregation he could almost picture a flame over each head!

Mass was bitter-sweet because the priest said his farewell since he has been called to do other duties and will no longer be at Spirit of Christ. Though he did say that he will return if needed, after all he still has the key to the church! He choked up a bit when he said that he would be taking care of his aging parents. He will also be giving missions or talks and promised to let everyone know where he will be so we can attend some of his talks.

As he walked back to the altar after the homily and good-byes, many parishioners were wiping their eyes. I felt a bit choked up because I know that his messages have always seem to tweak my heart. After mass he was greeted by many persons coming to say good-bye and to eat a donut.  His parents were in attendance and I said to his mother, "I am a fan of your son." The dad replied, "Well he now has two fans, his mother and you!" I now know where our priest gets his sense of humor!

How lucky is Father to have both his parents and how lucky are the parents to have a, handsome  story teller priest, evangelist and loved by many, son!

Even though our loving priest is moving on to do different work, and he will be missed at Spirit of Christ, it is as his mother told him, "your story has not ended,"

Prayers and best wishes to our beloved priest as he goes on his new adventures!