Past Reflections

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September 27, 2009 - Turning 50

by Father Edward L. Beck, C.P.

I celebrated my 50th birthday this past week.  And, of course, had to endure all of the “over the hill” jokes and “down-hill from-here-on-in” predictions.  All in good fun, of course.  But there was also seriousness in my marking this half-century milestone in my life.  I realized that I have now been a Passionist for more than half of my life.  I professed first vows in 1981 and was ordained a priest in 1985.  It’s remarkable for me to consider that the majority of my life has been spent in service as a Passionist. It has been my greatest gift.

At this juncture I feel especially privileged to be able to serve as Executive Producer of The Sunday Mass.  I consider it a wonderful honor to be able to enter your homes (and computers!) with the great message of God’s love as we experience it in the Eucharist.  I do feel like your “Pastor” in a very real way and hope that some of your spiritual needs are being met by our ministry here at THE SUNDAY MASS.  Thank you for the ways in which you have embraced us.

Our Jewish brothers and sisters celebrate Yom Kippur this weekend, the Day of Atonement.  We are united with them in prayer.  And of course, in that spirit, we too take time to beg pardon and forgiveness for any ways in which we have not fully responded to God’s great call of love.  Enjoy this wonderful fall week.  And I’ll see you back here next week with a new Reflection and new celebration of The Sunday Mass!  God’s Blessings to you always. - Fr. Edward