At. St. Joseph’s, Peg made an indelible mark on how we walk beside adults preparing to become Catholic in the RCIA and how we, as a large parish, value small Christian community. Other parishioners have said that Peg and her husband of 50 years, Tom, embody all that defines St. Joseph’s with their generous discipleship and engaging style of lay leadership. Peg’s faith spilled over into her service efforts for the larger world by building libraries for all and welcoming refugees by volunteering at Mary’s Place. Peg’s work with refugees included literacy support as well as helping refugees prepare for entry into the workplace. In recognition of Peg and Tom’s commitment to others, their alma mater, LeMoyne University, gave them the Ignatian Award for Community Service in 2019.
“Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. Even all the hairs of your head are counted. So, do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” How would life be for us if we stop being afraid? In fact, “Do not be afraid” is perhaps the most often repeated statement in the Scriptures.
Today is very special for me. It is the Feast of St. Boniface and the Sixty-Sixth Anniversary of my Ordination to the Priesthood. I offered my first Mass at St. Boniface with my Dad at the organ playing a Mass that he composed for the occasion. It was at St. Boniface, a typical pre-Vatican II parish, that my vocation was nurtured, thanks to a joyful, young priest who was gifted at working with youth and who fostered many vocations to priesthood. I spent my priesthood in four other parishes.