It must be 40 years since I was
introduced to the concept of spiritual garbage by my great friend Fr. Tot O'Dea. We were both ordained in the cathedral in
Carlow City, Ireland. We became
neighborhood pastors, and what a blessing that was. It was at breakfast when Tot broke down
garbage into, G-as guilt, A -anger, R -resentment, B-boredom, A-anxiety, G-greed,
E-envy. These next 40 years has been a
journey into discovery. Discovering the power of undealt with garbage, and what
happens in the recycling of self same garbage, has been one of the greatest
gifts that my Gracious Creator has blessed me with. Then to make this journey more awe-full, and
wonder-full along comes Pope Francis and his great message revealing anew our
Father's mysterious gift of mercy. The Pope kept referring to the oil of mercy. By doing so, we were asked to focus our
attention our attention on the many properties of oil, and its sacramental
significance and understanding. So, for me this focus on similarity between the
workings of oil has become an ever deepening conversion experience. In my wildest dreams I never thought that at
the end of my days there would be such a profound ongoing spiritual journey. This has changed my approach to both
preaching and teaching. Being in the
process of conversion, I am able to approach The Sacrament of Reconciliation
through a whole different light. Now,
the emphasis is on reconciliation and healing, leading to a new way of living. Yes! God is the God of surprises. This one I like.
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