These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.

WEDNESDAY, WEEK IV of EASTER, May 6th

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, completing their fasting and prayer, they laid hands on them and sent them off. (Acts 13:2-3)

Prayer and the Laying On of Hands have been essential elements of the Rite of Ordination from the earliest days of the church. Today I remember my own ordination to the priesthood on May 6, 1978, forty-two years ago today. I have always been grateful to Bishop Michael Begley who ordained me and sent me to serve God’s people.