A Pilgrim's Journey: Making a difference

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Making a difference

Those who make the greatest difference in this world are often the least known... a parent who lovingly raises a child with a knowledge of God; a schoolteacher who manages to say something that sparks a scholar’s mind; a stranger who offers some kindness that turns a wandering life around.

Rarely are our acts the stuff of headlines; instead, they are those little things done as well as possible under the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Meeting Pope St. John Paul II

In 1983 I was a newly-ordained priest. In November of that year, it was my privilege to be in Rome to take part in developing The Book of Divine Worship. During that time an invitation was extended to celebrate Mass with His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, in his private chapel. After we had said Mass, and in those few moments I had with the Holy Father, he told me that he remembered considering the request for my ordination, and he described how he came to an affirmative decision. For me, our brief conversation was an experience which will be treasured forever. At the conclusion of our time together, I asked him if I could take his blessing back to the people of my parish. His very simple words remain precious to me: "With all my heart, I bless you and your people." He then embraced me, and I knew that I was forever "home in my Father's house."