Preparing for a new academic year always brings plenty to do. The demands on my time seem to increase with each passing year due to additional roles and greater responsibilities. When one works for the Church in a mission diocese there are multiple hats to be worn at the same time. Juggling is a skill that should be learned prior to entering ministry.
I enjoy the brisk pace (up to a point). There is excitement building around the upcoming events being planned for the new season. Conducting workshops for catechists, faculty workshops for our our Catholic school teachers, and presentations for a variety of church groups are all on my calendar for the very near future. Preparations for each presentation are well underway.
A new experience this fall will be attending diaconate formation weekends in my role as a member of the diaconate formation board. Although I have been ordained for over 17 years, I will be attending formation classes with the new group of aspirants beginning in September. While being of service to the men in formation I am sure I will learn a thing or two in the process. Going through formation for five years was difficult the first time. I am a bit concerned about doing it again even if I don't have to do the homework now. It is quite a commitment of time and energy and I hope to support the men and their wives in formation as best as I am able.
World Youth day pilgrims from our diocese will be returning home this evening. I pray that their experience in Poland and Lithuania will bear abundant fruit in the years ahead. Give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His mercy endures forever.