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Scenes from my first Christmas

Yes, this is my First Christmas.....as a Deacon of course. Fr. Andrew reminded me and the entire congregation of that, along with the story ...

Sunday, June 29, 2014

How quickly has a month gone by!

I begin by apologizing for not posting anything for a couple of weeks. I am starting to settle into the ministry of being Husband, Dad, Son, employee, Deacon....! There is still much to learn. Two nights ago we had a gathering at Mike's and Elise's with the local clergy and it was a wonderful night. Great food, great friends, great times. Mike and I shared a few moments, and a revelation was evident for the two of us. For the first time in our lives there is a tremendous need for a calendar to keep up with what is going on, and especially before saying yes to anything. 

Last weekend I was honored to do my first funeral service flying solo, well actually I was assisted by one of our seminarians who are here for the summer. It went very well. I used a few ideas that are done at a funeral Mass. There was more time preparing for this than I had anticipated, which should be less in the future because of having that first experience under my belt.

Yesterday I was blessed and honored to be with a couple and their family who were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.It was a great opportunity to meet some very nice people and share a few moments with them. 

I have been serving at least once every weekend so far at Mass. This is where the comfort level is beginning to increase. Memorizing the penitential rite, I've got that one down now, and still working on the words I say quietly at various moments. The nervous moments are becoming fewer and fewer. 

If I had to state one thing that I find special is how this community has opened it's arms up to receive this ministry. They are genuinely excited and are always coming forward to offer words of encouragement, and all the love they have for Christ. 

One thing that stands out is that I am often told that "you look happy!" I am! I am still smiling from ear to ear and it's great. I am blessed to be a member of what the locals are calling the "DREAM TEAM!" Fr. Kyle and Fr. Andrew are so great, and they are so loved in these communities and they are working very hard. 

For those of you who can make the trip north to Berlin and Gorham we welcome you with open arms to come, to celebrate with us, and to share the Spirit that is growing here.

Bonjour et Adieu mes Amis,

Deacon Mitch 

 

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Saying goodbye to a friend

Today will be a day of honor and a challenge. I am priviliged to serve as a Deacon and preach at the funeral of a dear friend. I ask you all to pray for the soul of Richard and all those who will die today!

Peace

Deacon Mitch

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

We are on Facebook

Good afternoon! I just checked out the diocese Facebook page and there is a gorgeous couple on today's posting. Check it out at the Diocese of Manchester.

Bonjour et Adieu mes Amis,

Deacon Mitch

Friday, June 6, 2014

Waiting for some normalcy in my life

In someways the last few weeks feels like a worldwide tour that has been going on in my life. The many firsts have now come and gone. Now I am preparing myself to begin to memorize and become familiarized with the words that I need to say and when I should say them in the hopes that they will become a very strong part of me. So what is on the agenda this weekend? Staying at home? Relaxing? No! Terry and I are back on the road again this weekend. Tomorrow is deacon Jeff's ordination to the priesthood in Manchester. Last summer we worked  together and I want to be a strong part of this very special day for him. On Sunday he has invited me to be one of the deacons at his first mass. What an honor for me! So I guess in essence normalcy is actually keeping very busy. Hence, normalcy is already here.

I am wishing you all a very beautiful, sunny, and blessed weekend.

Bonsoir et Adieu mes Amis,

Deacon Mitch


Thursday, June 5, 2014

Ordination pictures!

All of us in the Chapel

The procession begins
The two candle bearers are from Berlin!

The Litany of the Saints  



The laying on of hands!

Receive the Gospel.....




The sign of peace!




Bonsoir et Adieu mes Amis,

Mitch