Spiritual Reflection
Intern(al) Reflections...
“No…it can’t be ending so soon…I’ve only just arrived!” My brain was screaming as I regretfully packed up my vestments and emptied the office desk of my personal items the other day—it simply seems too soon for my internship at the Cathedral to be over! But I suppose we all feel a bit this way when it comes to leaving the warmth of beloved, familiar friends and places for the cool adventure of a mist-shrouded path and friends not-yet-met.
It is with a very full heart that I reflect upon my time in your midst—as a part this wondrous place. My placement here was a dream come true—prayers answered! I already knew some of you casually and something of the programs you sponsor from periodic visits to the premises—those “tastes” only quickened my appetite to participate fully in the feast of your offerings. I can only say…”This is an addictive place—the more you participate, the more you WANT to participate!” Among my many experiences, several stood out above the rest. I had an opportunity and privilege to meet and work with your children—I rediscovered the fun and possibilities of clay and paints with their help. I served on the Stewardship committee—I never knew it could be so much fun to ask for money! I was able to participate in the great variety of liturgical events you provide for the community—Día de los Muertos, the Pet Memorial Service, the Serenade for Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Christmas/New Year’s cycle stand out particularly. I was honored to share personal stories with some of you through the Spiritual Autobiography class—truly an extraordinary experience! And I was privileged to represent you to some of your home-bound community members through pastoral visits and Holy Communion.
The spirit and passion you and the various program sponsors bring to the ministries of the Cathedral were significant in opening me up to the recognition and naming of my own passion in ministry. The more I “tried on” the ministries of others, the more clearly I was able to recognize that though all were wonderful, they were not “mine”—this “sampling” provided me with the necessary framework and vocabulary to name my personal ministry passion as one of fostering and nurturing renewal and new growth—particularly where there may have been damage in relationship.
But above all else, you have become my dear friends and family—you have played a key role in my formation as a person and as a priest. My time in your embrace has affected the nature and direction of my ministry—you continue to deepen my understanding of the true “servant heart” and the nature of servant ministry offered in joy and love. “Thank you” hardly seems adequate for such great gifts, but I do thank you with all my heart!
As I begin both a new calendar year and the new phase of my diaconal ministry—both occasions ripe with God’s promises and possibilities—I leave you for a new path and new call. I am confident beyond any doubt that should I cry out for help, you will be there for me—just as you are for the others in our community and as you have been for me during my internship.
Know you will ever continue in my heart and prayers!
Deacon Cathey
