As I sit to write this column on Monday morning, it is hovering around 40 degrees…more like late fall than late Spring!
   I’m looking forward to Fr. Peter’s arrival from Ireland Sunday night, May 22. It is always good to have him here, both in the parish and in the rectory. WE share many good meals and chats and his month with us always files by. He looks forward to the ‘warmth’ of June each year but that doesn’t always happen for him! Let’s hope and pray that the days do warm up and he gets an opportunity to enjoy the sunshine. He’s is always so upbeat, even if it rains he remains cheerful and helpful!
   It is hard to believe that next weekend is Memorial Day and our annual Cemetery Mass on Monday  at 9. During this past year, MaryEllen and especially Sally have stepped in to help with the funeral ministry. At times during the year (this past March for example), funerals become so numerous that they consumed a majority of my time. With the help of these good people, we are able provide outreach and ministry to these families during their difficult time of loss.
    Memorial Day always brings to mind our funeral ministry and all those who have died during the past year. We will as usual read all the names of those who had funeral at St. Michael’s and we will pray for all our deceased.
   May they rest in peace and may their surviving loved ones find healing and hope in God’s love for them.