It is 1:53am in Newfoundland.
I’m thinking of you and would like to share a few things before I sleep.
Well, I am now an honorary Newfoundlander. I was even given a certificate 🙂 I’ll show that to you upon my return. But the title and the certificate do not come without a ceremony. I did kiss the cod and had a shot of screech. Who wouldn’t enjoy screech after experiencing the cold of Newfoundland.
There are many things I’d like to share with you but suffice it to say, only a few for now. Bishop John (the homilist) called our attention to what Bishop Bart said when the Holy Father appointed him: “The appointment to be a bishop has the power to overwhelm. I draw comfort from two things: God’s abiding presence and that the mission is not mine alone.” Bishop John stressed on what it means to be a Shepherd – to participate in the life of Jesus: the good Shepherd who washed the feet of His disciples, who showed them what it means to love, who gave everything for them. Bishop John pointed out that Bishop Bart has a lot of energy which he has shown in his biking and walking to the Cathedral and office. However, he stated that God doesn’t call someone to be a bishop because he has outstanding qualities or talents or because he has a sparking
personality. These are secondary. God looks for two things: a heart that desires and loves God. A heart that is willing to share God’s life and love with God’s people. God found that in Bart: the little boy from Holland who in 1973 (at age 7) came to Canada with his family of 8 (Mom and dad, 6 children).
The Papal Nuncio brought greetings from the Holy Father. Gave Bishop Bart a big hug from Pope Francis. He revealed that Bishop Bart drove over 6,000 km (from Kelowna to Corner brook) without GPS. Because he really didn’t need it. The only GPS he needs, said the Papal Nuncio is the Holy Spirit who will help him to bring about the living and concrete presence of Jesus to his new diocese.
I felt deeply the presence of Jesus at the celebration. I saw the Church gathered as a family of God in joy and hope. I sensed a new grace flowing from heaven.
Bart was my vocation director. For some reason, tears of joy filled my eyes as I saw him on the altar. What he was before, he remains, but truly something has changed. Today, the grace of God has changed him forever. We, too, have been blessed by this new grace. I asked him to give me three blessings: one for me in my ministry, the other for the parishes of Penticton and the third for the priests of our diocese.
Bishop Bart is deeply aware that it is all about God’s amazing grace: “This appointment has led me to reflect on God’s faithfulness, patience and tender care in my life.”
Please pray for Bishop Bart and the wonderful people of Corner Brook and Labrador.
Your brother,
Fr. Obi