12 min read 2511 words

Father Michael, another year has spun around, and we find ourselves here again, celebrating you! It feels like just yesterday we were all crammed into the parish hall, attempting to surprise you with that disastrously decorated cake (remember the frosting explosion?). Time flies, doesn’t it? Especially when you’re busy guiding us, supporting our community, and generally being the rock we all need.

It’s easy to take for granted the constant presence of someone so dedicated. We get so caught up in our own lives, our own little dramas, that we sometimes forget the countless hours you pour into this parish. The late-night counseling sessions, the early morning hospital visits, the endless paperwork that keeps the church running… it’s a lot! And all done with such grace, humor, and unwavering faith.