Springing with Highlights

From time to time, my RE students have posed questions about my personal interests.

One student asked me about my favorite place to travel.  While I have visited many wonderful locations, one place that rises to the top is Washington, D.C.

It is an illustrious city that has many sites that speak to what the United States is, especially the monuments, museums, and government institutions.  More recently, I've come to appreciate it as a destination of spiritual pilgrimage.  Over the past 10 years, I've had numerous layovers in Washington, D.C., in between trains while traveling to locations along the Eastern Seaboard, which have enhanced my appreciation for Washington, D.C.

View of the Washingon, D.C., National Mall skyline from Arlington, VA

It was fitting that this student posed the question to me right before I traveled there for a family vacation.

Two days after the class when I addressed the answer to that question, on the morning of Thursday, March 24, I was up early and ready to go when Dad arrived at home with my grandma Abuela.  We were on our way around 8:30 AM CDT, headed east.  (Please note, most of our trip was in the Eastern time zone, so all times are EDT, except where otherwise noted.  And, as typical with my posts, all photos are mine unless otherwise noted.)

We picked up I-65 in northwest Indiana and rode it to Indianapolis, where we headed east on I-70.  Along the way, we munched on various foods for lunch.  I was also excitedly exchanging messages with my friend who was with his wife at the first ultrasound appointment for their child.  

We stopped just east of the Indiana-Ohio border at a rest stop.  

Display on the National Road at the first rest stop along eastbound I-70 in Ohio

There, I got in the driver's seat and took us all the way east to Columbus, arriving around 3:30 PM EDT.  In Columbus, we visited the Ohio Statehouse.  On a previous family road trip to Wasington, D.C., we visited the grounds but were unable to go inside since it was after hours.  So I could say that I had visited the Ohio state capitol, with an asterisk.  At long last, I was able to drop the asterisk.

We toured the rotunda, looked at the house and senate chambers, looked around at some of the other rooms, and viewed the exhibits.  It was notable to see that some of the hearing rooms were named for US presidents.  I was also intrigued to see a portrait of Abraham Lincoln when he gave speech in this building while on his way to Washington, D.C., to assume the US presidency.  And I was impressed with the artwork celebrating the brilliant inventors Orville and Wilbur Wright and Thomas Edison, all native Ohioans.  

Looking up into the rotunda

The Senate Chamber

Painting with Thomas Edison

The House Chamber

Official gubernatorial portrait of Bob Taft, grandson of President William Howard Taft

Painting that shows the Wright brothers

Mom took this photo of my posing inside the rotunda.

We departed about 5 PM.  I requested to be dropped off at Holy Trinity Parish in northern Columbus for 5:30 Mass, while everyone else went to the hotel we booked for that night.

I arrived at the end of Eucharistic adoration, which immediately preceded Mass.  Following a more traditional approach to liturgy, the Mass was for the Vigil of the Annunciation.  The Church sanctuary was stunning in its design--please see the photo below--and helped draw me into a reverent state for encountering God's presence, as did the reverent demeanor of those gathered who I saw around me.

Around 6:30, they came to pick me up, and we went to dinner at Bob Evan's.  It was fitting to go there because I found out later that the headquarters of Bob Evan's is in the Columbus suburb of New Albany, OH.  While I enjoy turkey, I decided to try out the honey chicken dinner.

We were back at the hotel by 8 o'clock.

I was up early the next morning on Friday, March 25.  Dad, Abuela, and I went to 6:40 Mass at St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Westerville.  The Church building was stunningly impressive, especially the artwork inside, including a piece over the altar with several saints, which is in the photo below.  

I was glad to be there because this was the day when Pope Francis consecrated Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and the priest offered a special prayer toward the end of Mass, following the Eucharist.

Here I am posing by the front doors of the church, underneath a verse from one of St. Paul's epistles.

We returned to the hotel for breakfast.  I enjoyed a nice waffle and some pastries.  Then Mom and I took a walk to a nearby store for some fruit, which I discovered was a Filippino grocery store.

We were on our way by 9:15, headed east on I-70.  

Crossing the Ohio River from Ohio into West Virginia's northern panhandle, near Wheeling

We drove through the tip of West Virginia's northern panhandle and then entered Pennsylvania.  Mom's phone directions took us off I-70 onto a tollroad for a short time and then onto US 40.  We followed the rise and fall of the mountain highlands.  Meanwhile, Dad found a radio station that aired live coverage of the consecration at the Vatican.

Around 1 PM, we saw a restaurant on the side of the road, Braddock's, in Farmington, and we decided to stop there for lunch.  I got a hot open-faced turkey sandwich with mashed potatoes.  It had a rustic, homey setting that was quite delightful.

Seeing a sign for Fort Necessity on the side of the road, I requested we make a short stop there, and so we visited there between 2-2:30 PM.  This visit took me back to middle school social studies when we learned about this engagement between French troops and British troops led by George Washington at this quickly-constructed fort at the start of the French-British War in 1754, not far from the French stronghold of Fort Duquesne, which is now the site of Pittsburgh.  Mom and I took a short walk to the site of the reconstructed fort.  Then we took a quick look at the exhibits inside the visitors' center, which included info on Fort Necessity and also the National Road, which we were following while riding US 40.

Mom took this photo of me standing in front of a reconstruction of Fort Necessity

Continuing along, we entered Maryland, and passed through Cumberland, going over the railroad tracks on which I've traveled onboard the Capitol Limited numerous times.  We also made a gas stop.  The drive was so scenic in the Appalachian Highlands, as we made our way onto I-68 and then I-70.

Around 4 PM, we reached the outskirts of the DC Metro Area, switching to I-270, and then the I-495 Beltway, and into Virginia, where we got on the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and crawled through peak PM traffic.  We arrived at our hotel, the Club Wyndham Old Town Alexandria Resort around 6 PM.

We were greeted upon our arrival at the resort with this cherry tree in bloom.

After we checked in and settled into our unit, I was eager to embrace the mild conditions and went for a bike ride.  I got a Capital Bikeshare bike, and biked into the heart of Old Town Alexandria, and then south along Royal Street to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and then over the Potomac from Virginia, through the southern tip of the District of Columbia, and into Maryland.  

View at the eastern end of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, looking from Maryland toward Virginia to the west

Near the center point of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge looking toward the north over the Potomac River

View at the western end of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, looking from Virginia toward Maryland to the east

I got a thrilling sensation as I glided along the slopes on the pedestrian/bike path along the north side of the bridge.  And Alexandria has such a sense of class, and I was glad to be back there again.  I was back around 7:45, and we had dinner, which was dishes from Whole Foods.

The next morning, Saturday, March 26, we departed shortly after 8 AM for the Silver Diner in Arlington, where we met Naomi and Eric for breakfast.  They enjoy eating there regularly, and Eric arranged a post-birthday breakfast for all of us in celebration of my birthday.  I enjoyed pancakes with pistachios and fruit.  It was a great time visiting with them.

Our server was kind enough to get this family photo. From left to right, Abuela, Eric, Naomi, Mom, me, and Dad.

Following breakfast, we went to their apartment and visited with them so more, along with Weasley.  He was super eager to lick the peanut butter jar we brought for him, and give us and our shoes the nasal appraisal.

Eric took this photo of my posing by Weasley's bed as he enjoys the peanut butter jar.  Below is my posing with Weasley as Naomi holds on to him as well.  I'm uncertain who took the photo below.

Abuela, Mom, Dad, and I departed around 11 o'clock, and walked about a block away to where we could see the Marine Corps Memorial and look over the Potomac toward Washington, D.C.  

The Marine Corps Memorial

Then we got back in the car and crossed the Potomac, joining throngs of cars with people eager to see the cherry blossoms.  We found a spot to pull over to get a few photos.

Above and below are views of the cherry blossoms aside the Potomac River.

I then headed off on my own. I walked through the throngs of people and got some photos along the Tidal Basin.  

Looking toward the Jefferson Memorial

A fellow visitor got this photo of me, with the Tidal Basin in the background.

Here's the view by the Washington Monument, and if you look closely, you can see kites flying as part of a Kite-Flying Festival.

Then I got on the Metro at the Smithsonian Station, pleasantly surprised to learn that the Metro now has $2 flat fares on the weekends.  I rode to Union Station to get a quick lunch.  

From there, I rode the Red Line up to the Brookland-CUA station so I could visit one of the most profound places in the world, and one of my favorite places to visit, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.  This church cements why I see Washington, D.C., as a place of spiritual pilgrimage, in addition to an important city of government and patriotic sites.

East-side exterior of the National Shrine with cherry blossoms in bloom, shining in the sunlight that emerged later in the day

The Shrine was in the midst of a 40-Hour Devotion. I went to the Chapel for Our Lady of Lourdes to spend 31 minutes in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, 1 minute for each year of my life, a profound time of quiet prayer in such a special place.  My prayer time truly added something profound to my birthday celebration that was 10 days prior.

Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel: Appearing near the base of the statue in the recreated grotto is the monstrance.

I then lingered around the Shrine for a while, and took a quick walk to the National Shrine of St. John Paul II.  I was back for 4:30 Mass, a special liturgy to conclude the 40-Hour Devotion, celebrated by Archbishop Timothy Broglio, of the Archdiocese of Military Services.  In his homily, he spoke about the supreme importance of the Lord present in the Eucharist, and I feel the liturgy itself helped create substantial focus on that important reality.  After communion, there was Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.  (If you click on the link, you can view the archived video, and you'll see glimpses of me, especially in the recessional toward the end.)

The recessional at Mass: Archbishop Broglio is wearing a white-colored miter. Second from the left, the rector of the shrine, Monsignor Rossi, is in a darker purple chasuble.

It all ended shortly after 6 PM.  I immediately departed and walked to the Brookland-CUA station and made my way back to Alexandria first on the Red Line to Gallery Place-Chinatown, and then the Yellow Line, which has great views of the Mall when it emerges out of the tunnel and crosses the Potomac.  Once back, I joined everyone for dinner.

The next morning, Sunday, March 27, we four went to 8:30 Mass at the Basilica of St. Mary in Alexandria.  A plaque on the church notes it is the first Catholic Parish in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  I noticed many traditional liturgical elements, like the singing of the entrance antiphon, which was a special one for this day, Laetare Sunday, and I appreciated that special touch, along with the priest's insightful homily on the readings, which included the story of the son who wanders from the father in Luke 15.

Bell tower of St. Mary's Basilica

After Mass, we made a brief stop at Whole Foods and then returned to the hotel for breakfast.  Around 12:30, Dad, Abuela, and I left by car to visit the National Shrine.  By 2:30, they left to return to the hotel, and I went to the St. John Paul II Shrine.  I joined a group of women who asked if I knew where his shrine was, and I walked with them to show them the way.

One of those women took this photo of me with the cherry blossoms and the west side of the Shrine behind me.

I joined the Divine Mercy Chaplet prayer at 3 PM, and then stayed in the Redemptor Hominbus Chapel for Eucharistic adoration, which was such a profoundly prayerful environment.

I was back at the National Shrine for Lenten Vespers at 4 PM.  

Here I am inside the Shrine before Vespers prayer started. Someone in the sanctuary kindly got this photo of me.

Last year, and this year, I watched the livestream of the Vespers regularly, and I was so glad to be there in the church for Vespers this Sunday.  It's a stirring experience with the incense and the chanting in such a grand space.  (You can view an archived video of the livestream here, and you'll see glimpses of me, in a red shirt.)  The liturgy finished by 4:30, and soon thereafter, I was on my way to the Brookland-CUA station.  This time, I rode one stop north to Fort Totten and then transferred to the Yellow Line.  While enroute, I joined my friends for our weekly Bible study gathering.

Upon walking into the unit, Naomi and Eric were already there visiting with Mom and Abuela.  Soon, Dad arrived with our dinner from Pita House.  I had chicken and beef shawarma.  It was a great time of visiting with all 6 of us together.

I was up before 7 AM the following morning, Monday, March 28.  Around 7:40, I was out the door and walked the short distance to the Alexandria Amtrak Station. I boarded Amtrak Northeast Regional Train #86 northbound to Philadelphia.  It very much reminded me of my trip there 6 years ago this coming summer.

Train #86 arrives at the Alexandria Amtrak Station, appearing toward the background of this photo

The morning sun shines down on the Potomac as Train #86 crosses into Washington, D.C.

A woman across the aisle photographed me a few minutes before Northeast Regional Train #86 arrived in Philadelphia.

The train arrived in Philadelphia shortly before 11 AM.  After I got my bag stored at the William H. Gray III 30th Street Station, I boarded the SEPTA commuter train corridor and rode it to the Jefferson Station, included in the price of my Amtrak fare to Phildelphia, and went on foot from there to Independence Hall for the 11:40 tour.  Sarah, a ranger, led our tour.  It meant much for me to visit this important historic site again. I liked how there was a different narration on the tour than the first time I did it 6 years ago, and Sarah highlighted different aspects of the building and the larger story in which it fits.

Above is inside the Assembly Room, and toward the right appears Sarah, the ranger tour guide.  Below, I pose outside Independence Hall, and a fellow visitor was kind enough to photograph me.

Once the tour ended shortly after noon, I went to 8th Street to board the PATCO train for a joy ride across the Delaware River to set foot in New Jersey for the first time in my life.  I was thrilled that the train emerged from the tunnel and traveled on the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, so that I could take in some great views during the crossing--I wasn't sure if I would be crossing the river underneath the surface of the earth.  

Here's the view of the Delaware River, looking south.

Toward the eastern end of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, before the train entered the tunnel

To make sure I could keep on schedule, I stayed on street level in Camden for just a couple of minutes and got some photos, including the impressive Camden City Hall, which is in the photo below.  

I enjoyed the views again as the train crossed back into Pennsylvania.  

The westbound PATCO train arrives at the City Hall Station

View of the Delaware River, looking north

View of Philadelphia from the Benjamin Franklin Bridge by the western shore of the Delaware River

Once I was back in Philadelphia, I went straight to the Jefferson Station to board the SEPTA train back to the 30th Street Station.

I retrieved my bag from storage, and then waited in the Metropolitan Lounge for a momentous experience, my first ride on the Acela train, in first class.  The lounge had a narrow configurement, but it was still a nice, quiet space to wait for the train, and enjoy free beverages and snacks.  

the Metropolitan Lounge

The info board in the lounge shows Acela Train #2159 near the middle of the list.

When it was boarding time, an employee took me down an elevator to the platform.  Train #2159 arrived right about on time at 2:10.  

Above and below are scenes on the platform as Acela Train #2159 arrives.

By the door, you can see Selema, the car attendant for first-class.

I had a single seat at a table across from a woman who had already been seated long before I boarded.  Well into the ride, I eventually realized it was Rosa DeLauro, a member of the US House from the district around New Haven, CT.

Part of the first-class Acela experience is at-seat meal service.  I ordered Lamb Tagine, which came with a roll, and a lemon blueberry cookie.  I also ordered Watermelon Lime sparkling water, and requested a second one later as we got closer to the end of the trip. Below is a photo of my meal. 

I could definitely sense the incredibly fast speed of the Acela, which goes as high as 135 mph, and it was also a smooth ride, given the technology and design of the train cars.

A woman seated with a group near me photographed me at my seat during our stop in Baltimore.

Here's the configurement of where I sat at the table.

We arrived at Washington Union Station right about on time at 4 PM.  

Here's the Acela engine after arrival at Washington, D.C.

Here I pose for a selfie by the Acela engine on the platform at Washington, D.C., Union Station.

I lingered there in the Club Acela Lounge for a few minutes.  Acela First-Class Service was a pricey experience, but I was glad I took the opportunity to savor the experience and see what it was like, given how much I enjoy train travel.  And it was enjoyable.

Then I boarded the Red Line and rode it to Farragut North, and from there, walked to the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle for 5:30 Mass.  As I remember it from nearly a year ago, the inside artwork is stunning.

Once Mass ended, I walked to the Farragut West Station where I rode the Blue Line to King Street.  Upon arriving back at the unit, I joined my family for dinner.

On Tuesday, March 29, we left shortly before 10 AM for our day outing in the northern part of Washington, D.C.  First, we visited the National Shrine of Pope St. John Paul II, which has a great exhibit extensively covering his life with lots of great items on display, including gifts and even his skis.  

His skis

Memorabilia from his 1979 trip to the USA

A miter from one of his Africa trips

Display for World Youth Day

At noon, I went to the main chapel to attend Mass.

Pope St. John Paul II Statue on the west side of the outside grounds 

Following Mass, we had lunch at Wendy's.  From there, we went to the Armed Forces Retirement Home Complex for the 2 PM tour of the Lincoln Summer Cottage.  Back in the 19th Century, the site was on the outskirts of Washington city.  Abraham Lincoln spent multiple summers at the home, which was privately built a few years prior and then became part of a complex for veterans in need of care.

Johnny, our tour guide, took our group around the home, and shared stories that connected with the larger narrative of history at the time during the Sectional War.  There were certain points when he played audio and video clips.  It was a great tour, especially in how the narration enhanced our experience in the setting of the house.  

Above and below are views of the house's exterior.

Mom took this photo of me as I pose by a statue of President Lincoln by his horse.

Following the tour, we looked around at the exhibits in the visitors' center, and then made a couple more stops before returning to Alexandria.  There, around 6 PM, we went to dinner at Bob and Edith's Diner, a restaurant just around the block from the hotel entrance, which had just opened in that spot on King Street.  We had a pretty good meal.

Bob and Edith's Diner

On Wednesday, March 30, we went on a day outing outside of the DC Metro Area, since Mom and Dad had business in Dover.  Abuela and I accompanied them.

We rode the I-495 Beltway across the Potomac on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and into Maryland.  Near New Carrollton, we got on US 50 headed eastbound.  Eventually, we crossed over the Chesapeake Bay on the Bay Bridge, which had spectacular views, as did the bridges over the Severn River by Annapolis and the Narrows.

Above is the view looking east as we cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and below is the view looking to the south.

We mostly drove through rural farmland, even as we entered Delaware and then got close to Dover.

By 10:30, we had arrived at the Delaware Legislative Hall.  

Abuela and I got out and went inside for a visit.  We looked inside the House and Senate Chambers, and walked through the hallways, with a good amount of artwork.  I was particularly intrigued to see the items under a plexiglass-type covering on the desks in the chambers, including handwritten notes.  Both chambers also had artwork depicting scenes from Delaware history.  Of all the state capitols I've visited, this building was probably one of the smaller ones.  Though it was built in the 1930's, it has the look of 18th-Century-style architecture.

the Delaware State House Chamber

the Delaware State Senate Chamber, from the viewing gallery

Staircase in the central part of the building, with the doors for the Governor's office appearing in the middle

Around 11:30 or so, we finished our visit there, and walked along grassy promenades over to The Green.  We ended up at the Cobblestone Cafe to get a quick bite to eat.  I ordered homemade hummus, which was really tasty.  Then we walked to the Delaware Shoppes to browse the wares--please see the photo below.  

We struck up a nice conversation with the employee there, who shared that on the site of the building was once the Golden Fleece Tavern, where a group of people approved Delaware's ratification of the US Constitution on December 7, 1787, the first state to do so.  He also shared about his train travels.  After our time there, we walked to the Old Statehouse, and went on a short tour, led by Steven, one of the docents.  He talked about the courtroom, which was on the main level where we entered.  Then we went upstairs and looked at the old house and senate chambers.

Courtroom on the first floor

Old Senate Chamber

Old House Chamber

The exterior of the building

By 1:30, Mom and Dad arrived to pick us up.  We swung back over to the Legislative Hall where I got some pictures of the minutemen statue, which are in the two photos below.  

Then, we made our way west back to Alexandria.  Along the way, we stopped at a Wawa just east of the Bay Bridge--in the photo below--for gas and food.  

Before this day, the only thing I knew about Wawa was that it was a convenience store chain that sponsors the Independence Day festivities in Philadelphia.  I was very pleased with Wawa's food offerings, and I enjoyed my turkey sandwich.  

We were back in Alexandria by 4 PM.  The cloudy skies had dispersed and let forth lots of sunshine, and it warmed a little bit.  So I decided to go for a bike ride.  This time, I went to the Waterfront, where I walked around, and then to Jones Point Park, just to the south of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and went a short distance on the Mount Vernon Trail.  I also rode through the old Wilkes Street railroad tunnel, which is now a pedestrian/bike path.  By 6 PM, I was back at the hotel, and we had dinner.  Following dinner, I joined my faith-sharing group via Zoom.

On Thursday, March 31, I was out the door shortly after 8 AM, and went to St. Joseph Church for 8:30 Mass, biking much of the way there.  Mass was held in the chapel in the basement of the rectory next to the church.  I have much fondness for this parish, where I experienced such a warm welcome three years ago after meeting parishioners from there at World Youth Day 2019, and I felt that strong spirit of welcome again this day.

Dad picked me up, and upon my return, I had breakfast.  Around 10 AM, we four departed for our day outing.  We rode the Yellow Line to visit the National Archives.  It's always an inspiring experience to behold the important foundational documents displayed in such splendor and to join so many other people who were there to view and appreciate them as well.  We also took a look at the Public Vaults exhibit and the Magna Carta display.

Someone in the family photographed my posing on Constitution Avenue outside the National Archives building.

From around 12 noon to 1:30, we visited the National Portrait Gallery/Smithsonian Museum of American Art.  We first visited the portraits on the 3rd floor.  Then we went to see the Presidential exhibit one floor below.  And after that, we walked through the splendid Courtyard in search of the Preamble License Plate display, but, upon learning it had moved, then went to the 3rd floor to view it.

Here I pose by Dr. Percy Julian's portrait.  I think Dad took this photo and the one below, where I appear by the Preamble art piece.

The atrium inside the museum

Then it was time for lunch.  We went across 9th Street to eat at The Smith.  I had a chicken sandwich with a variety of saucy toppings and some garden greens.  Abuela and I split a cheesecake cannoli.

Shortly after 3 PM, we got back on the Yellow Line and rode it to King Street.  Since the forecasted rain was holding off, I went on another bike, this time going down to the Waterfront, and then up north on the trail going toward Daingerfield Island.

Looking east across the Potomac River

Looking south with US 1 off to the right

Looking toward the Potomac River at Park

I arrived back at the hotel around 6 PM.  We four soon left for dinner at Los Cuates, a nice Mexican place.  I got chicken in a saffron sauce with white rice, black beans, and veggies, along with Passion Fruit Juice, and I enjoyed thoroughly it.  

Here's my meal at Los Cuates, and below is a photo of the front of the restaurant.

Following dinner, we went about a block away to the Casa Rosada Artisan Gelato place for dessert.  I got mango sorbet and strawberry banana flavor together in the same cup.  It was tasty just like the last time I had it three years ago with Mom.  We enjoyed a splendid spring evening outside with our gelato.

Dad got this photo of me with my gelato.  Mom and Abuela appear to the left.

Later, after we returned to our hotel, the winds picked up, and there was a severe thunderstorm that rolled miles to the north, which triggered a tornado warning.

The next morning, as we started a new month on Friday, April 1, I was out the door shortly after 7:30, and rode the free bus down King Street to Royal Street.  Then I walked a short distance south to the Basilica of St. Mary, where I attended 8 AM Mass.  Once it finished, I lit some prayer candles for my students.  And then I went back north to King Street, and rode the bus west a few blocks, then disembarked and went south to the Executive Diner, where I met everyone else for breakfast.  I had French toast, topped with powdered sugar and berries.  I also got a fruit bowl, a biscuit, and citrus tea.

After returning to the hotel, I got on the Yellow Line, which would be one final time to admire the amazing views from the bridge crossing over the Potomac.  I got off at L'Enfant Plaza and then rode the Orange/Blue/Silver line corridor one stop to Smithsonian.  Upon emerging from the station, I strolled north across the National Mall, admiring the views of the monuments, the Smithsonian museums, and the US Capitol.

A fellow visitor got this photo of me on the National Mall.

I headed for the National Museum of American History, having in mind one particular exhibit: the Star-Spangled Banner flown after the US victory at Fort McHenry on the morning of September 14, 1814.  I then wandered around the museum to look at other displays, including the lunchboxes by the cafeteria, Dorothy's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz (and a docent was there to share more details about them), the First Ladies' gowns, White House china, the presidential exhibit, and an early steam train engine.  It was also so fascinating.  I was in company with school students milling about on long-distance trips to Washington, D.C.

Dorothy's ruby slippers

A fellow visitor got my pose with the Star-Spangled Banner exhibit entrance in the background.

Laura Bush wore the red gown.

A fellow visitor got this photo of me by the early steam train engine

Around 12:15, I departed the museum at the Constitution Avenue entrance and walked to the Federal Triangle Metro Station.  I rode the Orange/Blue/Silver Line corridor to Rosslyn, where I was to meet Mom, Dad, Abuela, Naomi, and Eric.  While waiting for them, I walked around the area near the station to find lunch, and decided to make a smart choice by getting a slice of Margherita pizza at Wiseguy.  I also got a poppy seed mini-bagel from Bethesda Bagel.  

Mom, Dad, and Abuela were there right after 1 PM.  A few minutes later, Naomi and Eric arrived, and then we began our visit at The View of DC.  We went up 31 floors from street level to the observation deck, in a glass elevator that showed the view while ascending.  At the observation level, we had amazing views of the District of Columbia, the Potomac River, and suburban Virginia--no joke about it.  In some respects, going to the View of DC was like saving the best for last, giving us new perspectives of the place where we had spent this past week on our final full day in the area.

View looking north toward Georgetown and the Washington National Cathedral, with the Francis Scott Key Bridge closer to the foreground

View looking south along the Potomac

This view looks south, with the George Washington National Masonic Memorial Temple appearing near the center.

Dad photographed me here.  To the right of me is the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Looking toward the National Mall

Following our visit, we went to the Assembly food court across the street.  I got some sweet potato fries.  A few minutes after 3 PM, we got on the Blue Line and rode it back to King Street.  I stopped inside the hotel briefly and then rode the bus along King Street and then went to the post office to get postcard stamps.  I then took a short bike ride back to Jones Point Park.  

The Wilkes Street Tunnel, once serving a railroad line, now functions as a bike path.

The small stone pillars are boundary markers at Jones Point Park

Underneath the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, with the waters of the Potomac

The Alexandria Waterfront

As I made my way back along King Street, Dad called to say he was getting dinner, so I went to meet him at Whole Foods.

We were back at our unit with our dinners by 6 PM.  I got pizza and some veggies.  Following dinner, I wrote a bunch of postcards.  Then I went outside to look around one last time at Alexandria, all lit up splendidly in the night.

There are lights on the trees.  In the distance, the George Washington National Masonic Memorial Temple is lit up in yellow and blue in solitary with Ukraine.

Our day started early on Saturday, April 2, 2022.  Following breakfast, last-minute packing, and then some, we departed shortly after 7 AM, with the sun shining brightly.  The GPS on Mom's device directed us onto the I-495 Beltway.  

Riding on the south side of I-495 Beltway toward the western side

We rode the western side of it through suburban Virginia into Maryland, and then picked up I-270, and then I-70.  Soon after reaching Pennsylvania, we got on the Pennsylvania Turnpike at Breezewood.  We made a brief stop in southwestern Pennsylvania at a rest stop.  

The view of the Appalachians

We made another stop for gas in eastern Ohio, along the Ohio Turnpike.  We stopped at the Middle Ridge Travel Plaza near Amherst, for lunch around 1:30 PM.  I was pleased that Panera was there, and I ordered a turkey BLT sandwich with cream of chicken and wild rice soup.

We stopped for gas in northeast Indiana, and then Dad and I switched, and I drove through most of Indiana.  I pulled off the Indiana Tollroad at the rest stop in Lake Station where Dad and I switched, and he drove us all the way back to Chicagoland.  We arrived at 1036 in Oak Park around 5:30 PM CDT.

It's customary that when I return from a trip, people ask me how it was, especially if they knew I was gone.  I kept telling people that this trip was filled with highlights for me.  It was wonderful to spend time with my family going on this trip, and being with my family there, now with a family connection to the area, which is one way I have experienced the area anew.  I'm grateful to the hospitality we received from Eric, Naomi, and Weasley.

And it was an opportunity to be inspired once again by that place that encapsulates the United States of America.  The sites there speak to the values and principles that we hold in high regard, and they are put into action through the workings of the government, even as they build upon the history that has happened for centuries there.  It's wonderful to be with other visitors who are seeking an up-close experience with the sites and what they contain and represent.

My side trip to Philadelphia was a great time to reconnect with history, and to take in the geography of the northeast, with a joy ride to New Jersey, and also experiencing First-class Acela service.  Going to Delaware was enjoyable, and I'm glad I can now add two more capitals officially to my list of state capitols I've visited.  There was also important history in Dover, since Delaware was the first state to ratify the US Constitution.  The journey from Chicagoland to DC Metro Area and back was a great way to see the country, like the Ohio Statehouse, and especially going along the National Road through Pennsylvania and into Maryland.

It was excellent to enjoy the lodgings in Alexandria, a fine city.  I delighted in the opportunities to bike around it, especially over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge as another geographical experience.  Among the great sightseeing was one of the DC area's iconic annual events, the springtime cherry blossoms.

Once again, I was able to connect with places that speak to the importance of faith in my life, with so many beautiful churches in the DC area.  I felt a sense of spiritual refreshment when visiting various churches throughout the week, adding a special touch to my observance of Lent.

Indeed, even in a place hundreds of miles from home, there was so much there that resonates with my identity, and it was apt to have this experience days after celebrating my birthday.    This trip was ultimately a way to spend my time differently and reconnect with what's important in life by visiting these places and connecting with their deeper meaning.  I can count on Washington, D.C., to be a place where I can go deep and celebrate my identity in the overall identity of the United States of America.

God Bless the USA!

Abuela photographed me in front of the main entryway of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Dad photographed me at the View of DC.  Appearing behind me is the National Mall.  The US Capitol is partially covered by my head.

Paschal Mystery in 2022

The Love God showed the world through the Paschal Mystery is so deep and mysterious, yet we know its real effects which transform us powerfully.

Since the Death and Resurrection of Christ are central events in the Christian faith, we can draw so much meaning from commemorating them each year, as much as we experience a taste of those events each week when we gather for Mass on Sunday.

Rather than just remembering these events of the past, we seek to be transformed through the liturgies, and so enter more deeply into the Paschal Mystery.

Lent is truly a blessed season that helps us shift focus from ourselves to God.  For me, Lent this year was caught up in lots of activity in my usual life, and then having a different focus while on vacation in the Washington, D.C., Metro Area, where I spent time visiting various churches and embracing the opportunities for prayer at them.

As Holy Week neared, I knew there was great potential for how I could use this year's liturgies to enter more deeply into the Paschal Mystery.

Mass on Palm Sunday had such a triumphant tone at the start as we recall how the crowds acclaimed Jesus, even though they turned against Him later in the week.  Yet through it all, as people of faith, we recognize Jesus is our Savior, and He demonstrated it through His Passion.

The Crucifix adorned for Palm Sunday

On Tuesday of that week, I led a group of Religious Education students from the middle school classes in praying the Stations of the Cross. Desiring to embrace the last few days of Lent, I sought to prepare myself spiritually ahead of time by embracing the opportunity of this prayer to enter more deeply into the Paschal Mystery.  We concluded toward the East Avenue entrance of Church, and we all made a reverent gesture toward the Cross, just like during veneration of the Cross during the Cross Friday liturgy.  And after our time of prayer that Tuesday evening concluded, I felt my experience really led me into the Mystery, just as I hoped it did for the students with the reflections we used for our prayer.

The next evening, on Wednesday, I was back at Church for Evening Prayer, which was a mystical, very spiritual experience I embraced most weeks of Lent.  I felt the same way as I watched the livestream of the Sunday Vespers Liturgy at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception almost every week, and attended in-person for Laetare Sunday.

And the following evening, I was at Church once again for Maundy Thursday Mass.  The opening hymn was a repeat of last year's different hymn, yet still helped establish a triumphant tone, for all that we celebrate during the Triduum leads us to recognize Christ as our Savior.

This Mass hearkens back to our Jewish roots, as we celebrate the New Passover in which Christ puts His blood on His people to free us from sin.  Becoming familiar with Jewish practice through getting to know Jews in middle school helped me appreciate the practice of my Christian Roman Catholic faith then, and still informs it now.

This liturgy is a great opportunity for us to connect the service we do for others with the example Christ gave in offering Himself for us, and the commentary He made through the washing of His disciples' feet at the supper, before instituting the Eucharist.  We celebrate the Eucharist at each Mass throughout the year, and this evening is special because we return to the heart of its institution by Christ.  I thought so much about the calling I feel to teach RE and to give of myself by accompanying my students in their walk to encounter God and grow in relationship with Him.

And, as typical, the solemn procession of the Body of Christ to the side altar is a moving, powerful, and profound experience that touches me deeply.  The solemnity of the procession is enhanced by the eloquent lyrics of "Pange Lingua", which hail Christ as our Savior for giving of Himself in dying for us, and is truly worthy of our unceasing adoration.  There's something profound about lingering in the quiet stillness of the Church during the time of adoration following the conclusion of Mass.

The Marian side altar adorned with the side tabernacle for adoration

Cross Friday always has a heavy feel to it, but it's worth it to face the heaviness of Christ's death, because it's part of the story that leads to the Resurrection.  I was back at Ascension for the evening liturgy, which begins and ends in quiet.  Even the lighting is much different inside church.

The Gospel reading proclaimed is the Passion Narrative according to St. John.  That Gospel's theology focuses on Christ's glorious nature, and how He was fully committed to taking up His Cross.  And like throughout the rest of the Triduum, Cross Friday is an opportunity for us to ponder how we can unite our sufferings to Christ's sufferings, that His redemptive power may work in us.  That idea is what adds such a reverent touch to the solemn intercessions, as we enter more deeply into the movements of standing and kneeling, with lengthier prayers for the world and its people.  Then, with much reverence, I approached to venerate the Cross, in a similar mindset from when I led Stations of the Cross prayer on Holy Tuesday.  We venerate the Cross acknowledging the death of our Savior, but also aware that it has power because of the Resurrection.

The Cross that is a fixture in the back of Chruch during Lent and Easter Seasons is at the altar, having been placed there for Veneration.

I was back at Ascension the following morning at 8:30 for Holy Saturday Morning Prayer.  The one song that I find so meaningful is sung at this prayer time, as it acknowledges Christ in the tomb, and looking ahead to His glorious Resurrection.   We offered up other prayer chants from the psalms, and then gathered around the altar for intercessions, and then laid hands of blessing upon those preparing for initiation that night.

Following the conclusion of Morning Prayer, I stayed to help decorate the church for Easter Season.  I helped move lots of flowers into place, including the very triumphant-looking Easter lilies, and helped move materials from the Parish Center storage room over to the Church.  I tended to some banners as well.  And I got the cardboard circles onto the small candles.  I also helped arrange mats for those to be baptized.

Here I have completed the task of preparing the small candles. I think Mike Novak took this photo of me.

I also took the time to meet some of those preparing for initiation, including the two Julian 8th graders. I already felt a sense of connection with them as a Julian alumnus, and then, when I got talking with one of them, I realized that one of my RE students is one of her friends at school, and the two of them have talked a lot about their respective religion classes.

Then, at one point, Vicky Tufano, the former Ascension Pastoral Associate, who was there to assist with the Triduum liturgies, asked for my help in moving the Paschal Candle from its stand near the ambo to the font during the baptismal rite at the Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Mass.  She discussed with me what I would do for that part.  It stirred me that I would have this role during the Mass.

Later, after dinner, I got myself suited up, and then headed to Church for the Easter Vigil Mass.  There are so many moments in the Easter Vigil Mass that stir my soul.  I can feel something momentous is going to happen as I gather outside with the congregation around the fire and see the Paschal Candle lit.  It always strikes me how we gather outside as people are passing in cars on East Avenue, and perhaps they sense something special is happening. On this particular evening, I also noted families present who I know from teaching RE.

The Paschal Fire outside Church along East Avenue

The language of the Exultet is so rich, and builds our anticipation for the ritual proclamation of the Resurrection, the culmination of the stories we hear proclaimed in various readings.

Inside Church during the proclamation of the Exultet

The Mass that begins with the light of the fire then gives way to the illumination at the Gloria, building the anticipation.  And then comes the proclamation of the Gospel account of the Resurrection. As usually happens, I got very emotional when I heard David Anderson sing out the stepped Alleluia.  I feel that Alleluia deep within me, aware that as part of the baptized community of faith, the Resurrection is not just a story, but it is real, and its reality lives in me and all of us.

At the Alleluia Acclamation before the Gospel proclamation

And we experience how it is real as we welcome new members to our community through the sacraments of initiation.  As the litany of the saints began, I made my move to the ambo and lifted the Paschal Candle off its stand.  It was definitely on the heavy side, but I steadily moved it to the presider's chair and stood by as the candidates for baptism came to the font.  

When Father Rex pronounced the blessing of the font's water, I walked with the candle to the font and lifted it up to place it in the water.  It was tricky to lift the candle high enough so that I could get it in the font while holding it upright from near the bottom, so that it wouldn't tip while lit, while not necessarily having the ability to move my hands high enough on the candle.  Father Bob, standing nearby, realized it was a little bit of a struggle for me, and instantly moved to help me steady the candle as it went into the font, and helped me keep it steady.  Taking it out was easier, and I had little trouble going back to my spot at the presider's chair while I embraced my upfront view of the baptisms.

Here I am, standing by as I await to move toward the font.  This photo, and the three below, are screenshots from the livestream video, courtesy of Brian Kinyon and Ascension Parish.

Here Father Bob and I lift the Paschal Candle into the baptismal font.

Father Bob and I hold the candle as Father Rex pronounces the blessing on the water.

Here are Father Bob and I around the time I lift the candle out of the font.

I remained in place for when the sponsors lit the white candles from the light of the Paschal Candle.  Shortly thereafter, I moved the candle back to its stand, having completed my role. Even with some of the challenges, I was fully aware that my small part helped the gathered assembly embrace the symbolism in that part.  And from the congregation, I watched the bestowal of Confirmation on the other candidates.

The Mass continued in its high celebratory fashion, especially with the great music.  After I finished serving as Eucharistic minister, I really got into singing "Be Not Afraid", embracing the words as they speak to the joyful reality of the Resurrection that is within us.  I carried the celebratory spirit into the night as I headed home.

The next morning, on Resurrection Sunday, I was back at Church for 11 AM Mass.  The festive, joyful, and celebratory spirit was still present, with the church filled with light shining all around, especially on the splendid flowers and banners adorning the inside.  I proclaimed the first reading, which is from St. Peter's discourse before the gathered assembly at Cornelius's house. St. Peter speaks about the power of God at work through Christ, through His Death and Resurrection, then through the choosing of people to testify to Him, just as we the faithful today are called to testify.  

Here I proclaim the first reading.  This image is taken from the livestream video, courtesy of Brian Kinyon and Ascension Parish.

As is customary, once the communion process is over, we sang "Chris the Lord is Risen", set to a vibrant African tune.  Following Mass, it was great to catch up with a number of people, especially current and former RE students and their families.

I carried the celebratory spirit into lots of baking later in the day as I desired to share some treats with my RE students later that week in class to tap into the joyful spirit of the Easter Season, and then into our family dinner.

One idea I keep pondering throughout this Easter Season is the newness of Life we have in Christ.  We spent Lent seeking to turn from ourselves and grow closer to God.  Now, in Easter Season, we are called to live out that relationship with God, living differently, because Christ is alive, and He lives in us.  In a world that offers little reason for hope, we have the joyful reality of hope deep within us, and so we rejoice.  We are truly an Easter people, and "Alleluia" is our song.

Above and below are photos of the Ascension Church interior on Resurrection Sunday, following 11 AM Mass.

Here is our family's feast, fit for a glorious day.  Below is my plate, with ham, sweet potato, rice, and salad.

Here are the upside down peach cakes I made for my class, and one for us to enjoy at Resurrection Sunday dinner.

You can see me in the livestream video from the Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Mass around the 1:40:00 mark.

You can see me as the lector on Resurrection Sunday morning in the livestream video, around the 25:00 mark.

Post-College: 9 Years

It was a special day 9 years ago when I graduated with my bachelor's degree from Valparaiso University, a day that capped off an extraordinary experience that has given me enough to live out for a lifetime.  It was also the event that inspired the launch of this blog, in which I continue reflecting on life and the world around me, just as I did on a weekly basis while at ValpU.

One notable event that has happened recently in the past year is President Padilla's inauguration.  As I noticed with some of his messages when he was starting as president earlier in 2021, he demonstrated lots of energy and drive in his inaugural address.  He spoke so highly of all the sectors of the ValpU community, and exhorted the community to be bold in going forward, especially with the strategic plan, to make a significant impact as an institution.

I recognize that there was so much about my ValpU experience that had an impact on me:  My studies of meteorology have given me a deeper understanding and appreciation of what happens in the atmosphere above and what we experience at the surface.  Weather is more than just small talk for me, but something wondrous.  I also tapped into the reflective side of my personality, especially as I think about how I mused about life and the world around me in other classes, particularly in Christ College.

I marvel at how I formed deep friendships at Valparaiso University that persist to this day, spanning the years and the miles.  Over the past year, I have attended two weddings, both of which were for ValpU friends, Tyler and Zach.

Attending those weddings was a great chance to catch up with other friends like Matthew and Roy.  Being in the presence of my friends instantly reconnected me with our shared experiences on the fields of ValpU, stirring my heart and making me powerfully aware of the deep bonds we formed there and continue to experience.  It has been so wonderful to be present with my friends as they celebrate significant occasions in their lives and expand the circle of friendship with their spouses they met in their post-ValpU years.  It's also exciting to anticipate the day when my friend Roy becomes a dad, and to follow and support him as I can during the time of his wife Rogenique's pregnancy.

Here I pose with Roy, on the left, and Matthew, on the right, at the reception for Leslie and Tyler's wedding.  I'm wearing the same suit and tie I wore 9 years ago at my ValpU graduation.  I'm fairly certain Rogenique took this photo.

From left to right are Matthew, Roy, and Zachary, during our photo time at the Historic Lake County Courthouse before Heather and Zach's wedding.

Indeed, as I emerged into adulthood, college defined me in many important ways, most especially fostering in me a profound new embrace of faith.  I acknowledged in my newfound understanding and zeal that faith is a great gift that is meant to be shared.  And so I began teaching Religious Education during the first school year following graduation, and have continued it every year since.

After getting established in teaching the first couple of years, I have developed a certain tradition of speaking to my student about Sacred Tradition, which is about how faith is a gift that has been handed down to us.  

To illustrate this idea, I teach my students what Father Kevin taught me at St. Teresa's: P-A-R-T-Y! Party Hard with Jesus Christ!  He shared once that it came from his days as a cheerleading coach.  My students have largely gotten very enthralled with this "cheerleading routine".  

Kim, my class aide for this most recent year, enthusiastically got on board with P-A-R-T-Y.  At the final class, she surprised me with a shirt bearing P-A-R-T-Y! Party Hard with Jesus Christ!

I was super touched by the gesture, and the realization of how I've been able to connect with my students and let zeal of faith I gained in college rub off on them.  And as a counterpoint to the raging nature of an infectious virus spreading across statelines, I'm glad to say that I've been able to spread the infectious joy of faith across statelines with P-A-R-T-Y! 

As I reflect on my ValpU graduation 9 years ago, and the whole of the experience, I recall that I was at a nexus point, ending one phase of my life, and entering a new phase.  I have often regarded how fitting it was that my graduation was on Pentecost Sunday as I marvel at the work of the Holy Spirit, leading me to greater academic knowledge and also enhanced knowledge of God that has led me into a deeper, life-giving relationship with Him.

I give thanks to God that in this new post-college phase for the opportunities to pass on gifts I received that I was called to act upon, especially faith, and the blessing it has been to connect with others on the journey.

Here I am with the P-A-R-T-Y shirt.  Kim is to the left.  To the right is her daughter Elle, who was one of my students 3 years ago when she was in 8th grade.  Thank you to my Dad for this photo.

While blurry from being extracted from mobile phone video, here I am leading my class in P-A-R-T-Y.  Kim recorded the video of me, and here is a screenshot.

Lifelong Learning: at 6 Years

The circle of life returns me to partying like it's 2016 all over again, and specifically back to Sunday, May 8, 2016, when I graduated with my MLIS degree from Dominican University.

As I mark this milestone, on the same day of the week as 6 years ago, I think back to another day 25 years ago when I had an incredibly important experience.

My Kindergarten class, with Ms. Gullo as the teacher, went on a field trip from Irving School to the Maze Branch of the Oak Park Public Library, our fine library on the south side of Oak Park.  During that field trip, I got my very first library card, which opened up whole new worlds to me, not to mention all the fun, like they sing on Arthur.

While I'm sure I had been to the library before, as Carolyn remembers it when I was a shy child sticking close to Mom, getting that library card connected me to an important institution that contributed so much to my growth.  Indeed, the Maze Branch in particular is one of those special places in Oak Park that defined me.  It is a place that I was drawn to visit often, and means so much to me.

That first field trip there helped me see the library as a wonderful place, and laid a foundation for me to enjoy reading, and embrace library visits to seek materials there.

I enjoyed going to Maze, as it was a generally easy walk from where I grew up, and continues to be close to home.  It was a wonderful time going there to pick out books to read, and even videos to watch, too.  Summertime was especially fun when I participated in the children's summer reading program.  I would go there once a week to track my progress, and see the minutes I read accumulate, as I presented a sheet to the teen volunteers with additional marks noting how much more I had read during the past week.  After getting my progress checked in, and then getting more books, I'd walk out the door with my face in a book, and read while walking home.  Upon arriving home, I would remove my shoes and head to a chair in the living room, with my face still in the book all the while.

When I aged out of the program as a participant, I went a step further and volunteered for the program, starting after 6th grade, which was one of the most enjoyable summer involvements I had during my teen years.  For the final summer I did it, in 2008, I took it even further by assisting with both the children's summer reading program and working with a group of teens to tend to the space in Maze, like organizing bookshelves and creating displays.  Before that summer started, I attended an orientation for teen volunteers that helped acquaint me further with what it means to be part of a library, and it gave me great insights that made me more excited to participate.

Years later, after I discerned attending graduate school for my MLIS, I had the great opportunity to work at the main Oak Park Public Library, building upon all my past experiences to enhance service to my community.  I reconnected with Sharon Grimm, who helped facilitate that volunteer orientation back when I was in high school.  On one memorable day, she introduced me to a teen volunteer and noted how I started as a volunteer like him and was now employed.  I remain grateful for the time I spent at the Oak Park Public Library, which deeply shaped me in my profession.

It's amazing to think of the incredible journey that started on that field trip to Maze Library 25 years ago.  I've maintained a lifelong appreciation for libraries, fully aware of how they have shaped me, and the communities at large.

And my appreciation for libraries connects with one of the ALA core principles of librarianship: lifelong learning.

Indeed, on my way out of the graduation ceremony 6 years ago today, someone on the side assisting with the flow cheered for us saying, "Hooray! No more school!"  But then I turned to him and said, "But the learning continues!"

So I tell my students at the end of the RE year, just as I did a couple of weeks ago while wearing the same gown and MLIS hood from that ceremony:  There is so much out there to learn, plenty to fill a lifetime.  And ultimately, we learn that we may use knowledge for higher purposes.  

Indeed, I built upon the wonderful experience of that field trip 25 years ago to eventually have a career in which I do my part to help libraries serve communities.

I also think about the final verses in the Gospel according to St. John chapter 20, in which it says that what is written is meant to help the audience believe that Jesus is the Messiah, and to have life through His Name.

As I told my students a couple of weeks ago when we concluded our time together, my hope is that they will keep learning about faith, guided by the Holy Spirit, so that they will grow in relationship with God, and so be a blessing in the world.  And that is the power of learning, to put into action we gain to extend the impact.

Intersections on April 28

It's time for me to party like it's 1991 all over again.  On April 28, about 6 weeks following my birth, I was baptized at St. Cornelius Parish on the Northwest Side of Chicago, dying and rising to new Life with Christ in the waters.

April 28 is not only a special date for me, but also for Father Edwin Pacocha, who baptized me, because that is the anniversary date of his priestly ordination.  This year is an especially fitting time to party like it's 1962, since he marks his 60th anniversary.

While I haven't had much close contact with him during my life, there's no doubt that he played an important role by baptizing me.  And he has had quite a wonderful priestly ministry, especially at St. Cornelius, where served for at least 20 years before his retirement.  One time I remember seeing him again when I was older was the summer of 2005, between middle school and high school, when he offered a post-Mass blessing for my grandparents on the occasion of their Golden Wedding Anniversary, and then offered a prayer at the banquet dinner that followed the Mass.

A few weeks ago, I thought about how he marked his 50th anniversary back in 2012, and I wondered if there were any plans for celebrating his 60th.  So I inquired at St. Eugene Parish on the Northwest Side of Chicago, where I last heard he was serving as a retired weekend Mass assistant celebrant.  I then learned that there was a special Mass and reception planned for April 23 and I set my sights on attending.  (Notably, April 23 is the Feast of St. George, my confirmation saint.)

So on that summerlike day, I left work and drove 30 miles to the Northwest Side, where I picked up my Abuela, and then we went to St. Eugene for the 5:30 Mass.  My timing was tight, but we walked in just as the opening hymn was announced.

It was a lovely Mass, fitting for the Easter Season, which is when many priests are ordained.  Father Pacocha shared some good insights about Divine Mercy Sunday in his homily, and then reflected on his time as a priest:  He talked about the changes that have happened in the liturgy, the priests he's collaborated with, and the faithful laypeople who have been involved in church.

Following Mass, Abuela and I went to greet him.  I introduced myself as someone he baptized 31 years ago.  Once he heard my last name, he instantly remembered my Dad.

There was quite a spread of food at the reception that followed, with sandwiches, veggie trays, fruit trays, dessert tarts, and then fine cake.  It was also interesting to look at the displays celebrating his anniversary, including photos from back around the time of his ordination.

Right before Abuela and I departed the reception, I approached Father Pacocha again and thanked him for baptizing me, acknowledging that it started me on a journey that's led me to some amazing experiences.  Forefront on my mind was my experience teaching Religious Education.  He told me he was glad to hear of where I'm at in life, as he often wonders whatever happens to the babies he baptized.  Indeed, he made an impact on my life by being part of handing on the faith to me, and my journey has led me to take up the work of handing it on to others, especially my students.

It's wonderful that our respective anniversaries intersect as we celebrate the gift of faith and how we put it into action.  Two days ago, I concluded another great RE year with another awesome group of students, during which I shepherded them in their walk of faith, which is why it was fitting that my class aide Kim Tanner gave me a gift of Christ the Good Shepherd socks to compliment my Holy Spirit socks.  Deep within me, I rejoice at the ways I gave of myself to them and how we together encountered God.

Father Pacocha offers his homily at Mass.

Abuela took this photo as Father Pacocha and I talked following Mass.

Today, on April 28, I wore the Good Shepherd socks I got at the last RE class earlier this week. It was fitting to wear them to recognize Father Pacocha's ministry of shepherding others to God, just as I have lived out my baptism doing so for my RE students. Thank you, Mom, for the photo.

Photo from my baptism: Father Pachoa is to the left and my Dad, at the center, is holding me

Ulysses S. Grant at 200

It was 200 years ago on April 27, 1822, that Hiram Ulysses Grant was born in Point Pleasant, OH.

His life story is filled with quite a number of interesting twists and turns, especially considering that he's recognized as one of the US presidents with an Illinois connection, one of many states where he resided.

Many years ago, I visited his home in Galena, which was given as a gift to him following his triumphant service in the US army, especially as an officer, during the Sectional War.  Like with other homes of presidents, it offered a special perspective on who he was as a person.  I remember that as my tour group went through the home, a Ulysses Grant impersonator was leading the other tour group, and giving a first-person narrative.

In some ways, that home represents quite a turn-around in status for him.  He got into West Point through connections, where his name got changed to Ulysses Simpson Grant.  He served gallantly in the US Army during the Mexican-American War, and then his life became miserable while serving at a post in the Pacific Northwest, away from his family and beloved wife.  He eventually left the army, and struggled to make a living in Galena.  The Sectional War gave him a boost in a sense of purpose in life.  He accomplished major Union victories that elevated him to the highest rank of general that has only been attained by a handful of individuals.  His popularity as a general swept him into the presidency, although he's regarded as a mediocre president.

I learned even more about him when I attended a presentation at the June 2017 Annual ALA Meeting by Ron Chernow, as he promoted his new biography about General Grant, which was released in October of that year.  You can count on Ron Chernow to do extensive research of the subjects of his book, which added lots more depth to my understanding of General Grant.  I learned about the strained relations in his family because his Missouri-based in-laws were sympathetic to the Confederate cause.  It's a thick book, and years later, I'm still making my way through it.

As we mark 200 years since his birth, we see in Ulysses S. Grant a reflection of the complexities of US history, yet also the extraordinary achievements we can attain as we do our part to upholding the USA.

Retreat in the Place Beyond Words

10 years ago this week, I participated on a Wilderness Retreat with a group from St. Teresa's, during my 3rd year at Valparaiso University.

I wrote the following reflection in an e-mail I sent to family and friends 10 years ago right after the retreat.  I share it here again, with a couple of minor edits.

We went to Shades State Park in Montgomery County, Indiana, near Crawfordsville, between Indianapolis and Terre Haute.  We set up camp in the campgrounds in the park, and stayed there from Friday night upon our dark-enshrouded arrival until Sunday early afternoon. 

The theme for the weekend was laid out as we gathered around a fire on Friday night.  John Dewyze, our main leader, told us that the Hebrew word for wilderness translates into English as "without words".  He espoused the idea that the wilderness is a place beyond words where we can experience authentic existence.  He connected this idea to what God told Moses at the burning bush--"I AM Who I AM", this idea that God exists beyond words.

So we came into a physical wilderness to ponder being in a spiritual wilderness where we could embrace more authentically our existence, and that of God.  We spent our time there hiking on the trails in the park, which led into deep ravines, along and through streambeds, along the Sugar Creek, and through tall-treed woodlands.  (In fact, the trees in the park are so tall that they create a canopy that constantly keeps the park in shade--hence the name.)

During our times hiking around, we would stop, and our two leaders, John and Kristen, would share experiences of being in spiritual wilderness.  John also shared passages of Scripture, and then invited us to reflect more fully on certain ideas pertaining to the wilderness: God calling us, temptations, and struggles, through the symbols of the traditional four elements: fire, water, earth, and sky.  We were given times after our leaders spoke to wander around in solitude in the scenic beauty of the park's landscape.

We also shared lots of time of fellowship, particularly over meals, especially those over our campfire: potatoes/carrots and s'mores.

At the end of the retreat, John talked about how as we encounter God in the wilderness, He gives us a new identity by giving us a new name, as the two are very connected in the Scriptures.  In that spirit, John and Kristen gave each of us a new name, emblazoned in decorations on a cloth, based on how they viewed who we are.

When I first heard of this retreat, I thought it sounded really neat, and when a date was set, I made a point to block out this weekend on my calendar so I could go.

After I signed up, I had one of those "what on earth am I getting myself into?" feelings.  It dawned on me that I haven't really ever gone camping before, and wondered if I could handle being out in such a setting.  I also wondered about the ever-present reality of having lots of classwork to do, and pondered if it would be better to just stay on campus to do all this work, like a "responsible student".

Yet, on Tuesday, after I finished doing some work, I started thinking about all the things I would have to be getting to over the next couple of weeks or so.  I felt myself getting sucked into a vacuum in which I started thinking more and more about the work I have to do, and I started thinking about it so much I felt horribly overwhelmed.

I got myself out of that, and knew that an opportunity like this retreat would be just the thing I would need at a time like this:  Something to just get away from schoolwork, refocus on what really counts in life, and then go back refreshed to tackling all the work ahead of me.

And being out camping wasn't really all that bad.  I ended up having a small-size tent all to myself, and I was comfortable and warm enough inside of it.  Walking around on the trails provided many scenic vistas, the opportunity to be in a place with simply the sounds of nature, and get some exercise.

Most of all, this retreat gave me spiritual refreshment.  I find myself in struggles from time to time.  And on Saturday night, while we were sharing our thoughts on our spiritual reflections during the day, I noticed that many people talked openly about internal struggles.  At first, it seemed kind of depressing, especially since it didn't seem like people had these struggles outwardly.  But when I thought about it, I realized that it would be worse not to acknowledge these struggles.  They're just a part of life.  What's of the utmost is being able to respond to these struggles in a way that refocuses me toward what really matters in life, especially in how I live out my relationship with God.

Having spent this time in the place beyond words, I have renewed focus in the important matters of life.  As I go back to my common life, and all the schoolwork that fills it, I recognize that the God who is in an existence beyond words pervades my existence, and He is there to empower me to live fully anew in a new identity in life, the Life He grants through the Risen Christ.

Upon my return, I washed myself, my clothes, and my linens, certainly for the purpose of the need for physical cleaning, but furthermore as a symbolic gesture in concordance with my new identity.  And then I went to St. Teresa's for 9 PM Mass to continue my celebration.  Father Kevin told us he had been at a church in Indianapolis earlier in the day, and the priest barely got a quarter of the people wet during the sprinkling rite, so he set out with the full intention to douse us gathered there at St. Teresa's.  And he did just that:  He made such a spectacle of the rite, causing so much giggling, that it almost distracted us from the sacredness of it.  In the Collect (opening prayer), there was language asking God to renew us in youthfulness in this season celebrating Christ's life.  I couldn't help but think of how appropriate the rite and the Collect were liturgically and in light of the retreat.  I was renewed in the spirit of baptism, and in the spirit of new life, feeling a sense of youth in my new identity.

With this, I go forth, knowing I have a lot before me to tackle, yet with excitement for the new possibilities in all this newness.

I rejoice!

Thanks be to God!