Pastor's Note

WALKING WITH…
April 1st, 2007

A woman recently told me about her neighbor-friend’s ordeal with cancer. Once the other person’s cancer was diagnosed, this woman thought the best she could do for her friend was to walk with her on this new journey.
The journey took her through many chemo treatments, lots of emotions, times of talking, and times of silent prayer. There were ups and downs over the next two years. As the woman told me the story, I realized the value of her choice and commitment. She couldn’t cure the friend, but she could let her know she would be there with her.
I think that we are doing the same thing as we enter Holy Week. In one sense, it is the story of Jesus walking with us in our human condition. He gives us hope even as he suffers with all the pains of humanity.
At the same time, it is our walking with him. Really entering the week – from Passion Sunday through Easter – is a way of fully being present to the unfolding of our redemption. And don’t forget Holy Thursday, that wonderful Mass that recalls the institution of the Eucharist and the call to service through the washing of feet.
The woman who walked with her friend concluded the conversation by saying that she felt blessed for having been able to be with her friend. The same happens as we walk with the Lord. Please enter into as much as possible of this year’s Holy Week. We will all be blessed.