Hello again, everyone! I am now starting my second year of retirement from parochial administration, but still very active in priestly ministry. My lengthy visit to Switzerland ended disappointedly since the English language weddings in the Diocese of Lugano all were cancelled due to complications from Covid. Travel, passport issues, testing, and different entry rules from different countries all contributed to the situation.

WIth my return home, I have been assisting at St. Joseph, Guardian of the Holy Family Parish in Falmouth. It is a collaborative of three churches, and two summer chapels. Msgr. Stephen Avila is a talented and gifted pastor. As an outsider, I am so pleased to witness the love and support they have for him and for their new assistant pastor, newly ordained Fr. Matt Laird. They have welcomed with most graciously, and I appreciate the invitation to celebrate the Eucharist for a parish community.

In addition to liturgical assistance in the parish, I also lead the committal prayers at the Massachusetts National Cemetery. Located in Bourne, Massachusetts, the cemetery was dedicated on Oct. 11, 1980 on 780 acres of the Otis Air Force Base land. Presently, almost 79,000 burials have been held. My father was a very proud member of the United States Navy. We never moved because Dad was always stationed in Newport, RI. Fast forward 40 years, I honor his service every time I lead the committal prayers for a military person or their family member. On Memorial Day, the burial fields was all dressed with American flags placed by veterans, their families, and community volunteers to honor those who died in service to our country.  Veterans Day honors all our fellow citizens who have serve in the armed services.  Here is a picture of just one burial field dressed with American flags. It is very emotional to see, and even more so for those families paid the ultimate price in the defense of freedom.

I have another adventure beginning in a few weeks. It is a “Bucket List” item that I really am looking forward to in less than a month.  Until then, be well, be holy, and be safe!  Finally,  God bless America!