Refuge and Strength

I took a few days off this week to go visit one of my sisters on the west side of Madison, near Arena, and another sister on the southwest side of Madison near McFarland. My sister Eva lives with her husband, Michael, at the far eastern part of the “driftless area” of Wisconsin. This is where the glaciers did not pass over, during the last ice age, and thus did not scrape the earth nearly flat. Instead, there are many hills, valleys, and rocky cliffs in that area of Wisconsin. I enjoy their peaceful home in the quiet hills surrounded by woods, wild flowers and wild life. While I am writing this article I have not yet begun these days of rest. I am looking forward to them.

This morning, Saturday, July 20th, we had a strong storm pass through the Green Bay area. Tornado and flood warnings were issued. Last night, too, there was wind and rain. Such powerful natural forces remind us of our vulnerability. We must always remember our limits and prepare for difficult challenges. May you know that the church is available as a refuge. Many people come here just to sit and relax and pray. Some people come for relief from the streets, the heat, their sadness, stress, etc. Homeless and hungry people find relief here on a daily basis. When I open the doors at 6:30 a.m., often several people who stayed in the homeless shelter the night before, are waiting to come in. They may use the bathroom, or go into the church, or sit down or lay down on one of the benches and sleep. I am happy that they find refuge here. May you find refuge, too.

   May God bless us all that we may find refuge and strength in our faith, which is a spiritual reality, and in our church, which is built on relationships with one another and with God.

Peace, Fr. Andy