Endings and Beginnings
I am writing this from my parent's home as I prepare to leave on my sabbatical. The last couple weeks have been exhausting, fun, sad, touching and exciting. I was deeply moved by the many wonderful people who took the effort to share their appreciation for my ministry at the Cathedral and St. Casimir and to wish me well. I thank them all for their prayers, support and encouragement. It took me a few hours longer than I planned to complete the packing. I had hoped to be out of the rectory by 4 on Sunday night. I actually got away about 11 on Monday morning. At one point I opened another closet and all of my energy left me. I had to take a break and so went up to the Twin Cities for a final rehearsal with Kantorei, a choral group I have sung with for about 15 years. It is always a great refresher for me. The group dedicated one of the pieces we were rehearsing to me - really nice. Rheinberger's Abendleid - the text, based on the story of the disciples on the way to Emmau...