There are instances in which I become profoundly aware of just how quickly time is passing. This past Saturday I presented the annual RCIA retreat for the seventh consecutive year at St. Joseph’s Parish in Cheyenne. I moved to Cheyenne on November 1, 2009. We had the first retreat in 2011 and have been having it ever since. It started with just St. Joseph’s Parish but has expanded to include the other parishes in town as well. It is wonderful to gather with people eagerly awaiting their initiation into the Church at the Great Easter Vigil.
This retreat marks the beginning of a very busy season. Ash Wednesday will usher us into the Lenten season. Thursday will find me reading to students at St. Mary’s School for Dr. Seuss’ birthday. On Thursday night the Cheyenne Lions Club will be hosting their annual Eagle Scout Recognition Banquet. I have been asked to be the keynote speaker for this event, and I am looking forward to spending this evening with some successful and dedicated individuals.
On Friday my road travels will begin. First up–a retreat and a three night parish mission in Green River, Wyoming. I will be leading a retreat on Saturday for all of the volunteer parish ministers. This is a beautiful opportunity to renew and refresh ourselves as individuals and as a parish community working and praying together. It will be my privilege to preach at the weekend Masses and lead a three night mission. I was in Green River in 2014 and 2015 to lead parish missions. After a year break I am looking forward to returning again.
