Lent V – Passion Sunday
Bishop’s Corner
Our old Obergammergau crucifix, (purchased in Baltimore) atop the arch made for it by a local Cincinnati old Italian woodcarver, was easily raised over the rood screen last week by Gino and James McMahon, and that just in time for Passiontide. Its height lifts our eyes to Heaven even as the crucifix reminds us that the altar is the mystic Calvary here on earth. This cross is too high up to veil or unveil, and thus will stand always before our eyes. We hope to continue the work of ornamentation of the traditional rood screen in the coming months.
Fr. Cekada was at the Seminary last week, and reports that an Argentinian and an African semiarian received the first step to the altar, clerical tonsure, and Mr. Vili Lehtoranta the last of the minor orders. He will be ordained subdeacon on Holy Saturday, a cherished St. Gertrude tradition. Thank you for your prayerful support for our future priests, and the priests who are preparing them for this sublime state.
Remember the large trash “container” (as it’s called) in the parking lot? It served us well for years of construction, thanks to the kindness of Bernie Brueggemann and Bavarian. We thought this complimentary service would be withdrawn after his death, and it was. Still, it was a wistful moment when I happened to catch a glimpse of the departing dumpster, our last link with a family and a business which had helped us so generously for over thirty years. I’m glad we have the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, dedicated in memory of Bernie and Rita Brueggemann, their son Larry and Bavarian, to whom we owe so much. Pray for our benefactors, living and deceased.
As a P.S. to the above, would anybody care to donate towards the Fatima shrine memorial for Ernie?
The last of our homey Lenten Friday night suppers is this Friday. It ended up as pure pot luck each week, and everyone has eaten very well. Thanks to our generous cooks and helpers.
Last week’s weather was Holy Week-like, I thought, but we still have awhile to go. Easter this year is one day shy of as late as it can be. This gives us all plenty of time to prepare for the most devout Holy Week ever. Plan to be with us.
May the Holy Ghost inspire you with a strong, comforting devotion to the Passion of Christ, and the Sorrows of Mary.
-Bishop Dolan