Recently I had the opportunity to attend another discernment retreat at Precious Blood Center in Liberty. During my visit I had the pleasure of walking the path to the recently constructed labyrinth. As I walking the winding path I could not stop thinking of Jesus’ s journey to Jerusalem and my own journey in life. It’ s been a long one, with many twists and turns, just like Jesus. I could not help thinking how beautiful and inviting the labyrinth appeared as it waited for me to walk its path. My thoughts and reflection began to drift to this amazing journey with the Missionaries of the Precious Blood.
My journey began with my amazing pastor and mentor Fr. Matt Link. He began the path by sprinkling seeds of the Precious Blood charism throughout the inquiry phase. Fr. Matt was gracious and patient with me, and sometimes that wasn’ t easy with a lost sheep like me. He was excited to journey with me and gave me insight into community and parish life, devoting a lot of time and energy to my vocation during my discernment. In addition, my home parish, Most Holy Redeemer in San Francisco, has been very supportive and friends there have been kind and loving to me as I continue my journey in Chicago.
The day I left San Francisco it felt like I was eighteen and leaving for college for the first time. I arrived at Midway Airport in Chicago. Fr. Lac Pham welcomed me with a big hug. I will never forget the hospitality; it meant so much to me. After arriving at the house, we grabbed a hot meal and had some good
Formation
Sprouting the Seeds of Community by Michael Kirkland, Candidate in Formation, Chicago, Illinois
Michael Kirkland( third from the left), with acolytes and Fr. Matthew Link at Most Holy Redeemer Parish in San Francisco.
conversation. I retired to my room and tears of joy began to flow down my face.
It has been a blessing to meet others and grow in our community these last few months. My formation directors and brothers have been so gracious. The light of our house is Fr. Dennis Chriszt. He is full of the Holy Spirit and has a laugh that is continuous. Sometimes I just go downstairs and sit with him to feel the spirit and have a good laugh. My little-big brother Matt Keller has been gracious and kind; he is guiding me through school and helping me ease into formation. Matt uses his amazing gifts to care for our small garden and lawn. I’ m his little helper. Our time together gardening gives strength to our brotherhood and friendship. My guiding brother Matt Perez and I reserve some extra time each week in our busy schedule to pray and explore our Precious Blood spiritualty together. Matt and I will always have a special bond because we entered initial formation together. My other little-big brother Greg Evers is always there to lend an ear when I just need a friend. Greg is a young man way ahead of his years. It was also exciting to hear we had a brother in the house. Brother Ton Sison has an amazing smile and a great sense of community. We instantly had a special bond. My stomach growls with excitement when he cooks his amazing Filipino dishes. He teaches at ctu and it’ s comforting to know he is around campus. Brothers rock!
Just recently I got a full dose of the true meaning of“ the bond of charity.” About ten years ago I was hospitalized and I found myself alone and fearful about my future. The only person that visited me was the hospital chaplain. I was admitted to University of Chicago Hospital, and once again those fears of loneliness arose. This time my experience was much different. I was never alone through this event. My herd of brothers kept coming and my cell phone was blowing up. They told me that I was not on this journey alone. Some members came in collar, so the medical team was quite aware I was part of a religious community. My nurse kept calling me Father. I finally told her that I’ m not a priest. I kindly informed her I was only a candidate in a religious community, and she replied“ Ok, Father.” There is never a dull moment in this amazing adventure, and even in time of darkness the light shines in. The loving support was extended from our Companions as well. Trudy continued on page 11
December 2016 • The New Wine Press • 5