Along The Way
A Priest's Journey of Joys and Challenges

This work is the result of a great deal of reflection on the rich experiences of more than 50 years in Ministry. I recognize how many wonderful encounters I have had "AlongThe Way." As I reflect in my introduction, I sensed what Michelangelo felt when he observed a block of marble and had to “ release” David. I knew that if I had to "released” both the joy and challenges, ups and downs, questions and answers that comprise my many years of Priestly service. I attempted to do so for two reasons: to share the lessons that I both learned and taught because I feel that they resonated with The Human Experience With which others could identify, and as a source of encouragement two others to "tell their stories" and the richness that flows from them.Through autobiographical sketches, a journey through various assignments, pastoral vignettes (mostly humorous but some very serious stories), I tried to "connect the dots" as it were between God and the experience of Our Lives. In focusing on various people whom I might have encountered I reflect on the value of relationships and how we are shaped by them. In my final section "essays" I attempt to apply my experiences and the wisdom gained from those experiences to some contemporary issues and common human situations that affect us all.