Although most of you have not seen me for over a month, I am back at the rectory after a two-week stint in the hospital and another fourteen days in a rehab facility following surgery because of a head-on collision I found myself involved in on September 9 while on vacation in Pittsburgh. This is the first time in my life that I have ever been incapacitated to the point that I couldn’t function on my own, and I’m having a hard time with this, to say the least.

I am now home at the rectory with limited duties. This means you will not see me at Mass for a good couple months into the future. This includes all things done in church, including funerals. Apart from doctor visits, I do 
not leave the rectory because I cannot put weight on my left foot. This is a slow process that at times proves to be very frustrating. 

Things are not all doom and gloom, however. The number of cards wishing me well and promising me prayers was just staggering. I was never so surprised as when two boxes of these were presented to me. There were days when these prayers were the only thing that got me through the day. I firmly believe that! 

I would also like to thank Fr. Louis in a special way. In my absence and in the future until I am walking on 2 feet again. He has been doing all the pastoral work which has been quite heavy lately. He is appointed as administrator 
until I recover. Please be patient and cooperative with him. 

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for your prayers on my behalf, whether they were Masses, Rosaries, or even just a quick aspiration. The power of prayer is immense. This has been proven time after time. Please keep the 
prayers coming. They do a lot of good. May God bless you for your kindness and patience.