I was at the church at 7:00 a.m. this morning opening up and prepping for the Confirmation Masses today. It is now 7:00 p.m. and I am just getting back to the rectory.
Fr. Declan had the 8:30 a.m. Mass and, while he was celebrating Mass, I was setting up vessels and other things for Confirmation. Bishop McClory had a Confirmation Mass at 10:00 a.m. for our St. Thomas More school students from last year. After the Mass, he remained behind to take pictures. Then, we all went to the conference room at the parish to eat lunch. We had delivery from Jimmy John’s (individually wrapped sandwiches because of the pandemic). For a surprise, Munster Donuts sent us two dozen fresh donuts for dessert.
After lunch, we were back at it again for a 1:00 p.m. Confirmation Mass for our Religious Education students from last year. After their Mass, the bishop stayed for pictures. When he left, it was about 2:30 p.m. I had time to set up for the 5:30 p.m. Mass before hearing confessions from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. Our confessions are from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.; but, I generally begin early because people are already waiting and, during the pandemic, I don’t want lines forming so I go out early.
After confessions, I had the 5:30 p.m. Mass. By that time, I could hear my dogs (feet) barking and my back was killing me. I made it through Mass though. Celebrating Mass always seems to restore me. But after Mass? Well, that’s when I just felt like crashing.
So, here I am, writing tonight’s blog. After this, I am unapologetically going to go to sleep because I have the 6:30 and 8:00 a.m. Masses tomorrow morning. G’night, all.
But, before I sign off, thank you to all who prepared our students for Confirmation. Thank you to those who played or sang at the Masses. Thank you to those who served. Thank you to Fr. Declan and Deacon Joe for their help at the Masses. Thank you to our diocesan MC, Deacon Michael Halas, for coordinating the Masses. Last, but certainly not least, CONGRATULATIONS to those who were confirmed!
