Right now, administrative work equals lots of paperwork, seeing names on registration forms and Baptism certificates.

This season we went digital with our registration process, which means I meet even less of you as you register. I miss seeing the faces that go with the names on the forms.

Friday morning I went to the funeral of a friend who died of cancer at the young age of 52. At the end of the Mass her father gave a eulogy, standing behind a large picture of her beautifully smiling.

I found myself asking from my heart that question with no answer – why?

I came to work after the funeral and later that afternoon a mom came to register her son, who was with her. I got to see the faces to the names on the form…we began to chat.

Her husband died of cancer 3 months ago, leaving her and their two sons.

He was diagnosed at stage 4 and had months to live. She told me how her husband talked with her and their two sons during those months.

Be strong. Know that he was close with God and was happy. Have faith. Don’t ask why but move forward.

She said they were blessed to be able to have that time with him and to say goodbye.  

Did not God choose those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that he promised to those who love him? James 2:5

The verse from this coming Sunday’s Second Reading makes me think of that family and my friend’s family. The two with cancer were poor in health but were so rich in faith. They both knew they were heirs of the kingdom God promises those who love Him – new life with Him in Heaven.



I don’t understand the why but am so glad for faith in the Who – Jesus who brings new life.

Blessings of being rich in faith!