05/13/01
Bookends of faith
Like bookends on a library shelf, two recent issues of The Catholic
New World bracket a vital part of the church in Chicago.
This edition is anchored around the lives of 10 men being ordained
as priests of the archdiocese. Their stories are full of hope,
eagerness and perhaps even awe over the future.
Two weeks ago, we published a “jubilee” edition noting priests,
deacons and religious celebrating a seminal decade of service.
Highlighted were priests looking back on 50 years of service.
Two bookends: one beginning, the other drawing to a close.
Yes, I know the church is more than priests—more even than deacons
and religious and those “professional” Catholics who labor full-time.
The church certainly is at least as much those in the pews who
pray and work and contribute, often unstintingly, often unnoted.
Some may say priests—those “collars”—get too much press. Maybe,
maybe not.
But as you read of the hopes and dreams and anticipations of the
likes of the soon-to-be-ordained Kombo Peshu, Michael Novick,
and the others, pay attention also to these words from Father
Greg Sakowicz (friend and radio co-host).
Father Greg is in the middle of his career as pastor of St. Mary
of the Woods Parish, Chicago. He wanted to honor a mentor—Father
Leo Mahon—who is at the end of his.
“How do I begin to offer my heartfelt congratulations on your
50th anniversary …? What a great ride! Fifty years of dedication
and service to God’s people …! I remember the day we met. ...
I was impressed by your kindness, graciousness and wonderful sense
of humor. … I walked away deeply touched by your strong faith,
love for the Lord, love for the priesthood, your brilliant mind—and
you were a White Sox fan! The day we were introduced you were
49 and I was 22. Days have a way of quickly turning and … I find
myself 48 years old and you are 75. God bless you, and may God
always hold you in the palm of his hand.”
Sakowicz wrote those words for his parish bulletin, but they could
be said also for many others ending their careers. Except the
part about being Sox fans, of course. And they may one day be
said of those being ordained this month, beginning theirs—bookends
of faith.
Tom Sheridan
Editor and General Manager
Send your comments to Tom Sheridan
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