Yesterday I attended a celebration in honor of a friend's fortieth anniversray of being in the priesthood. It was very meaningful, more so than I think most people expected it to be.
For one thing, we thought it would be fruit punch and Ritz crackers in the parish, but it was a sit-down dinner for with chicken breasts *and* filet mignon. And there were over 300 people in attendance. Quite a turn-out!
The video was interesting, with photos from childhood and seminary followed by ones from working. It is quite unusual that this priest has had the same assignment since 1966(chaplain at a university medical center). His explanation is that 1) This is what God wants him to do, and 2) They can't find anyone who would be willing to replace him. Having known him for 37 years myself, I can endorse both of those ideas.
A most wonderful thing about the event, in addition to the accolades and love heaped upon him, was the sense of community among the participants. Between his home church congregation, his work contacts, and random others who know him, there were many people who didn't know others when the event began. By the time we all ambled out of the party, we all had new friends. There were wonderful stories about memories and lives, and they were shared joyfully. The sadness that some of the anecdotes contained was muted by the love and support that surrounded the participants at the time.
It is so affirming to be among people who honor and care for each other. And so validating for an individual to be surrounded by people who acclaim him and love him, publicly and enthusiastically.
I came out of the Broomcloset to this friend a few years ago, because I felt that I was in essence lying to him by not disclosing my spiritual orientation. I had dreaded doing it, but I felt compelled to follow through. I confessed to him at dinner one night, and he listened thoughtfully, as is his habit. I was nervous when he was quiet afterwards, and I blurted out, "I know that you still love me in spite of this." He said that he loved me even more, because I trusted him enough to be honest, and he knew that the fundamental ideas that we believe in are really the same, we just apply them differently.
What a blessing to have such a friend, and for so long.
Bright Blessings,
Spiral Crone
Haloscan:
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Blogger:
I appreciate your support.
I do think there are more of Us than we realize. (grin) The only way to find out is to disclose to trusted friends and take the risk.
I have had strangers come up to me in public (grocery store, etc.) and say, "Bright Blessings!" or "Blessed Be!) with a big smile. Either they had seen me somewhere Pagan, or they recognized my Stealth Pentacle.
I share your dream about the world to come. So Mote It Be!!
Jubilation
