A continuation of yesterdays blog. On the Sunday after ordination we celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving per the tradition. It took place at the Post Chapel of Fort Dix, in the presence of the St. Joseph Military Catholic Community. Present were Paula, young Joshua who was 4 years old at the time. Family and friends had gathered again. A colleague Ray Baird was the cantor. Music was supplied by my friend from the past Gregory Leonardo who at the time was Christian Brother teaching music in Maryland. Greg is a most accomplished organist. We were friends and fraternity brothers since college. The principal celebrant was Father Higgiston. Malachi was an army chaplain and my sponsoring priest through the formation. Again in accordance to tradition, at the thanksgiving mass another is the homilist. Fr. Malachi assumed that role with delight as he did all his priestly duties.
This was the day I assumed my responsibility as servant to the People of God of this community. However, my role there was short lived. Within two months of ordination I received military orders to transfer to the Army Hospital at Camp Ederle in Vicenza , Italy. It was there that my ministry began anew. The Sunday after ordination was a day of joy and hope.
"Gaudium et spes"
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