A Week ago, today

Last Sunday, Father Roger Keeler opened our church mission with an examination of the story of faith, in fact many stories. He gave us a chance to share our own stories.

We were to bring an image of Jesus to use in this session. I had forgotten to do this, but I remembered that I had my rosary in my purse. This rosary was given to me at my First Holy Communion by my mother. The crucifix became the image I shared with my elbow partner. The rosary, and consequently the crucifix itself, were worn almost smooth. The beads were carved white roses which kept the appearance of roses, but were also much smoother than they were when I had first received it.

The story of this image of Jesus centred around my mother, who has been gone for 12 and a half years. She died of complications arising from Multiple Sclerosis. For 30 years she spent much of her time in bed or in a wheelchair. I never heard her complain, but I did hear her say the rosary so many times. My father looked after my mom for most of the time she was an invalid. He took great pride in caring for her and the love they shared did not diminish over time. Their faith remained strong, reinforced by daily prayer and service to one another.

As I share this story and the image of this old rosary, I remember the love my mother showed us kids, the love my parents had for each other and the example of undying faith they had in one another and in God. I miss my mother every day still, but I know she is in a better place. In fact, I feel her presence more now than ever and I still ask God's blessing for her when I say my nightly prayers.

In this year of faith, and during Lent, it is fitting that I examine my own faith, where it came from and where it is going.

We met for 4 evenings with Father Keeler and it was a wondeful experience. I will be sharing the rest of the messages he gave us during the mission in the next posts.