R'Ann asks about priests who have influenced my life. I have two. The first is Fr. Aniello. Father has the gift of healing. Back in the day, I didn't know what that meant. A friend and co-worker asked me to take her to a healing service, since Father Aniello was celebrating Mass and a healing service, in my parish. I did. No, I didn't experience a Saul to Paul knock off my ass. But I felt something. Better, I have had an insatiable desire to learn all I can about our Triune God, ever since.
The other priest, conversely, affected me. He was my very first spiritual director. Fr. John was kinda flaky. "Kinda" is being kinda. I went to him about four times. Since he was my first SD, I was very sincere, devoted, and conscientious. I remember him telling me it was most important to have a regular prayer life. I should go to morning Mass, if possible. I should learn the Divine Office. Pray a daily Rosary. Also, I should set aside time to do Lectio Divina. Finally, Confession should be once a month.
This is what I remember and still try to do. Outside of that, Father John kept forgetting to come to our sessions. He wouldn't return my phone calls and I hated to be a pest, and keep calling and calling. I eventually stopped calling, and he never noticed. When I see him today, he said he doesn't remember this at all.
Probably repressed the memory!
However, as terrible as he was at being a SD, our first encounter, and his instructions to me, are what have influenced me for the rest of my life.
R'Ann also asks that I and other bloggers join together on her site, This And That And The Other Thing, and share with each other what happened to us, during the past week. I was very busy and sick on the Fourth of July--lasting throughout July 5. It was some kind of intestinal bug. I feel better, today.
Sunday -- Obsessing about statue's toes.
Monday -- Finally finished after 37 years!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday -- Beautifully poetic day.
Wednesday -- My Iraqui family needs help desperately.
Thursday -- The diocese of Springfield Mass has a new bishop.
Friday -- Hurricane Arthur
Be in touch next week.
