Today was a difficult one for me. This afternoon, I had the Rite of the Reception of the Body for Fr. Roy Beeching at Ss. Peter and Paul Church in Merrillville. He was a good friend and I’m grieving his loss.
This afternoon, after the service, his family asked me a personal request: to use his chalice at the Funeral Mass tomorrow. I told them that I would without hesitation. Then they told me that I would be taking it home with me because Fr. Beeching left me his chalice in his will.
I tell you, that really tugged at my heartstrings.
Roy, I will try to do my best for you tomorrow at the funeral. Thank you for asking me to preach at your funeral and thank you for gifting me with your chalice. I will remember you each time I use it to celebrate Mass.