Farewell (Fr. Thoman)

The message of today's readings strike a particularly personal chord with me. Farewell is the theme of each; and, as you know, I am in the midst of farewell!

In the first reading St. Paul is preparing to leave the province of Asia for Jerusalem. Looking back, he feels he's done his very best. He has not held back in proclaiming the message of Jesus to all who would listen. He has given his ministry everything he had and has no regrets.

In the gospel, Jesus, too, is bidding farewell. We get to listen in on his prayer. He says he has completed the mission the Father entrusted to him. It is now time for him to leave and return to the Father. Meanwhile, he has prepared those entrusted to him and feels confident they will continue the good work which has begun in them.

I hope I am not inaccurate in my own self perception when I say that I, too, have done my very best. One of my guiding life principles is to always put forth my best effort. I never want to settle for "what is good enough." I always put my best in everything I do. It wouldn't feel right if I didn't.

This doesn't mean that I don't realize another pastor's "best" may well be much better than my "best." I know there are others who are much more outgoing, engaging, charismatic, talented - whatever words you want to use - but I, for my part, feel I have given my all.   

I also realize a lot of things have fallen through the cracks. There are things I haven't followed up on, things overlooked, things that got lost in the shuffle. I am fully aware of this short coming and for this I profoundly apologize.

And I, too, leave with a prayer in my heart - that Holy Spirit Parish will thrive. Working together, I know it will. This parish is filled with lots of good-hearted, hard working parishioners who seek to make things work. Guided by the Spirit, you will! 

Fr. Dwayne Thoman 

Comments

  • Lynda

    Father,
    As usual you show a level of human humility we can only aspire to. You have been more than a priest. You have been a shepherd, counselor, leader, teacher, confessor and more. I have seen you wash the feet of your sheep, lay prostrate before the altar, sacrifice your time, and your entire life for God and for us. I have been blessed and honored to take the body of Christ from your hand. I will forever remember my acceptance into the Holy Catholic Church via your anointing, blessing and prayers and most of all, from your example. You have seen me at my worst and hopefully giving my best effort, never judging me but instead glorifying God. You exemplify the true peace of Mary, the work ethic of Joseph and the deep passion of Christ. I don't think you can do much better than that. Oh, and I have only known you for one year! I thank God for you yesterday, today and forever.

  • Karen

    Indeed you have given us your best and will be missed by all. May retirement bring you joy!