Sixty years and counting

Springtime is a big deal for celebrations and transitions. Priests get ordained, change parishes or celebrate years of service. Springtime also is full of graduations and the tons of parties that go with them. In my own Archdiocese, it seems as if priests are always moving. Despite this, I had the honor and privilege to watch a priest celebrate 60 years as a pastor. More importantly, he also celebrated 57 years in the same parish.

It is very uncommon now to have the same priest for even four or five years, but I was moved by the celebration for this pastor. I was most surprised to learn he was ordained on Pentecost Sunday. While life at this parish—a Byzantine Catholic church—is different from that of most parishes I visit, I have come to embrace those differences. Many of the church’s members know I am not from the Byzantine Rite. However, this does not stop them from welcoming me with open arms or from inviting me to celebrations or lunch after Mass. To them, I am part of the family. The reason why became clear while spending time celebrating Father’s 60 years as both a priest and pastor.

Everyone spoke of Father’s life as a priest, and his family spoke of the joy he brings to them. Father is there for everyone in his parish. Father taught his people how to be Christ-like to everyone who walks through the church doors. Mind you, this church is only open for an hour every Sunday. There is no vigil Mass. There are no weekday Masses. There are no social events at the church. Yet, every member knows your name. Father knows your name and everything going on in your life. He knows the struggles and the high points. Most importantly, he is just there.

It is clear to see why people would travel over an hour every Sunday to listen to a Mass said by Father. Father’s legacy is not about him following the rules, because from some of the stories I heard, it’s clear that Father is more of a rule breaker than a rule follower. His legacy is about making sure his people know he is always present for them. Grant you, Father has taken the time for his flock to know his door is always open. It says something that each parishioner has his personal number.

While we were celebrating a priest for dedicating his life to help his community, it also was clear that we were celebrating a community committed to making everyone feel like family. People came over hundreds of miles to thank Father for his service. This parish is home because of the pastor. This parish may appear outdated from looking at the paint on the wall, but it is a place where all people are welcome.

In today’s church life, it is difficult for a priest or pastor to truly get to know his parishioners, while finding time for personal peace and quiet. There is too much to do and not enough priests to go around. However, the reason this parish is so successful is because of the personable nature of its parishioners. Father sets the tone for his parish.

The lesson here is to be truly present to your fellow church community. The change begins when we see everything through Christ-like eyes.