June 24, 2007 - Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist

Dear friends in life and in ministry  . . .

I'm writing this from the second floor porch of Catholic House at the Chautauqua Institution.  As you may recall, Patty resides here for the nine week Chautauqua season as House Manager.  I'd planned to take this week as vacation, but instead I'll head for Bath in a few hours to be present at Sunday Eucharist and accompany what we are calling our "Willing Hearts Summer Choir.

On this beautiful summer day, a cool breeze tempers the heat of cloudless sky. The world famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir is performing less than 300 yards from me in the 5000 seat Chautauqua Amphitheatre.  They've just completed wonderful renditions of  "Danny Boy", "How Can I Keep From Singing" and "Sing a New Church" which has brought the crowd to its feet. There are over 300 singers and a 75 member orchestra.  Magnificent.

On Monday night, Father Peter's uncle, Bishop Philip Naameh will speak to our parishioners and hopefully others about the plight of women in the Northern Regions of Ghana, the location of his diocese.  My column today relates a conversation with Bishop Philip over lunch earlier this week.

Have a blessed week.

Deacon Ray

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Bulletin: June 24, 2007