On December 12 (Feast of our Lady of Gaudalupe), our own Fr. Bart van Roijen will be ordained the Bishop of Labrador and Corner brook. I received an opportunity to attend his ordination and witness this historic occasion in the life of the Church in Canada.
Since I came to Canada, I have lived in Western Canada, so this is an opportunity for me to see other parts of Canada. Though I’m excited about the trip, someone asked me if I have a jacket that will withstand 40 below. I’m still looking for one 🙂
When I was still in Nigeria, I remember Fr. Bart telling me that though our diocese (the envy of the nation) has the best climate, Canada can be very cold in the winter. Now, I’ll experience what real cold feels like. Pray for me that I’ll survive. More importantly, pray for our brother Fr. Bart that he may be a Bishop after God’s own heart. In his article in Mountain Star, he said:
During my time away, Fr. Harry will be here to assist us in our advent journey as we continue to prepare the way of the Lord. Come, Lord Jesus. We need you. Come and save us. Help us to prepare our hearts, our homes, our parishes for your coming. Unite us all as one family in your love. Where disunity in families has cause brokenness, Lord help us to reconcile and to build unity in our homes. Heal us.
May you have a Holy and Happy Advent.
Your brother,
~ Fr. Obi