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Farewell from our Pastoral Intern
When I first received my pastoral internship
assignment, my initial reaction was to think, “Where in the
world is Lancaster?” My second immediate thought was then to
ask, “What did I do wrong to be sent all the way there?” Other
than a few visits to St. Andrew’s Abbey, I had never really been
exposed to the high desert before. In particular, I had to get
used to a different weather environment that likes to playfully
say, “Ha, you thought it would be ‘x’ degrees today
didn’t you? Let me prove you wrong.” Moreover, the people I’ve
encountered here have been of various degrees as well, but in an
extraordinary sense. Everyone here has freely offered so much
to me I feel that I have inadequately given back.
I’ve learned so much from those in each ministry that I’ll do my
best to list what I can in this space. Hispanic Ministry – from
the start, you’ve shown me how to be giving through your
generous warmth and gracious hospitality: “Les agradezco
mucho.” Youth/Young Adult – your tireless fervor to work
with those who’ll be the future of our Church has been very
inspiring and edifying. Students/teachers of both the school &
O.R.E., I feel very small compared to your genuine love for
learning and teaching our great faith. Bereavement – your
tenderness and heartfelt compassion have shown me how to be
Christ to others, especially in their time of need.
Music/Hospitality – your vivacious cheerfulness has shown me how
to make others feel most welcome. For the lectors, E.M.’s, and
altar servers – your devotion has revealed the true sacredness
of God’s Word and Eucharist in our liturgy. Respect
Life/Detention/St. Vincent/Catholic Daughters – your zeal for
social justice has taught me how to respect the dignity of human
life that each deserves. For the rectory staff, deacon couples,
and priests – no matter how difficult the day seems, your daily
interactions with people on a constant basis have taught me how
to be the loving face of the Church. Knights of Columbus
Council 2455 – I give special thanks for your arduous efforts to
serve the parish community and your continuous support for the
priesthood. Most importantly, for all those who’ve supported me
this past year, especially through your prayers – I could not
have gone through my internship without you. Thank you so much!
By now, I completely know where Sacred Heart, Lancaster is.
This is a place that will forever be embedded in my own heart,
one that I cannot easily forget. In retrospect, being sent here
has been a tremendous blessing and I actually feel unworthy of
my placement here. Yet, if given a choice, I’d choose Sacred
Heart all over again in a heartbeat. Although I have two more
academic years left at the seminary, my experience here has been
immensely affirming of my own vocation. Thank you again for
your loving support and keep me in your prayers, for you are
certainly in mine.
God bless you!
Augustine Chang
Augustine Chang |
