After having four funeral Masses in the span of nine days, I was reminded of one of the realities of a retirement community and the blessings that come to us who have resurrectional faith in Jesus Christ.  We are strengthened in our hope of Resurrection for our loved ones and one day for ourselves because of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and His Resurrection that we are celebrating in a unique way during the Easter season.  I want to also use this column to thank all those who participate in our bereavement ministry here at Sacred Heart.  This includes all those who give of their time and talent in our funeral liturgies.  We are blessed to now have a Resurrection Choir to lead our singing at these Masses.  Also, I thank Marilyn Burke and all those who set up and provide hospitality at our wake services and funerals.  I thank our Ladies Guilds who provide a reception for families after the funeral Mass is over.  Finally, I thank Ann Hooper for her ongoing efforts to reach out and help the bereaved long after our public liturgies.  GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

In case you're wondering, our American Bishops have not gone quiet with regard to threats against religious liberty that have happened and no doubt will continue to happen.  This is a time for us to be properly informed by the Church and then, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, act in unity to work against this threat.l  I invite you to go to the website: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/religious-liberty/our-first-most-cherished-liberty.cfm.  Read the document that was developed by the Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops which, among other things, lists concern that have led the bishops to act now and to call us to action, to protect this long-standing and important freedom in our country.

At this time of year, I am humbled by those who speak so favorably of our Triduum Services and the spiritual graces they received from them.  I turn my attention to The Lord in thanks for all those who joined me in preparation for the Triduum and in the actual liturgies that the Church gave us during this special time.  These obviously include the ministers on the altar, our ushers, gift bearers and music ministers who put much time and effort before and during our liturgies (which were beautiful and meaningful).  I also want to thank Bill Hurley, Mickey Townsend, and all those who helped with the Holy Thursday dinner and the reception after the Easter Vigil liturgy.  Their efforts to feed us with good food in a hospitable and efficient way, are very much appreciated.  May God bless all of you abundantly in this Easter season for your generosity of time and talent for The Lord and His people.  On a personal note, I want to thank those who remembered me with Easter cards, greetings, and gifts of delicious food.