It was another wonderful evening in Wheatland last night. I have especially enjoyed getting to know some of the parishioners on a more personal level since my initial arrival on Saturday afternoon. That is a component that I truly appreciate each time I lead a parish mission. Spending five consecutive days in one location allows for more personal interaction than what I typically get when I just come to a parish to do a one day retreat or workshop.
The drive home last night was a little slower due to the rain and snow. There was a fifteen mile stretch in which the snow was fairly intense for a while. I was grateful for the transition back to rain by the time I reached Cheyenne city limits. Traveling in the spring seems to always be a little on the exciting side. Quite frankly, I am okay without the added excitement.
We will wrap things up tonight with a focus on healing. In most cases I draw parish missions to a close with this same focus. It is extremely important that we truly know of God’s forgiveness, mercy, and compassion in our lives. When we open ourselves to God’s healing grace we are then more fully equipped to go out into the world to bring that same healing and peace to others.
The rug at the entrance of St. Patrick Church in Wheatland gives a powerful message in regard to our purpose and mission. We enter to worship and are sent forth at the end to serve. May we live that well in our own lives!
