Highlights of Summer Ministry in Seattle
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September 11, 2023As a new school year begins and summer comes to an end, it is exciting to come back home and reconnect with community, friends and professors at school. We catch up, asking each other “How was your summer?” Over the past couple of weeks I have been able to reminisce about my time in Seattle. I first heard that I would be going to Seattle in April, and was excited about working with Fr. Steve Wilson.
During our last conversation before his surgery, we talked about possibilities for ministry and our mutual expectations. Unfortunately, he passed away two days before my arrival in Seattle. The first few days of my time in Seattle were focused on the funeral arrangements.
My first week was a little bit difficult – adjusting to a new community, figuring out where things were, and adapting to a new rhythm. This was also my first time serving at a parish in summer ministry. Initially, I was asked to focus on office work. I got to categorize boxes and files, finish filing and enter sacramental records.
Everything was a new experience. I don’t think I would have been able manage working in the parish office if it hadn’t been for the guidance of Fr. Chuong Cao and Fr. Harry Grile, who were very kind and patient with me as I learned to process the paperwork.
I also got to work with the people. I had the opportunity to lead a three-week series on the Theology of the Creed with a small group, and was very involved with the activities of the young adults. It was very exciting to meet such an energetic group of young men and women who were so excited about their faith. I was surprised that men comprised the vast majority of the group.
We gathered for Holy Hour, set up a room to serve as a parish clothing bank, and had fun playing soccer on a Saturday morning. I also worked on baptismal preparations with five young families, and worked with the sacristans. They helped me learn the ins and outs of setting up for the liturgy at the parish. I am most impressed with all the work they do for the parish.
However, if I had to pick my favorite part of the past summer, it was living with the Seattle community. The confreres were very kind and welcoming and patient. It was not long before I felt like I was a real part of their community, and I enjoyed the special moments we shared.
I enjoyed preparing dinner to celebrate profession and ordination anniversaries with Fr. Chuong, and it was fun to see how everyone enjoyed our little celebration. I also got to grill burgers for the first time with the careful guidance of Fr. Tom Picton as we celebrated Fr. Lyle’s birthday. I really liked chatting with Fr. Bill at breakfast and hearing his stories, as well as the many conversations I had with Fr. Lyle when I stopped byhis room.
My evening walks with Fr. Chuong are another highlight of my summer ministry experience. I don’t think I have ever heard “Thank you” as much as I heard it from the confreres in Seattle. I am very grateful for their kindness, and would live with them again in a heartbeat.
