An unanticipated call from the apostolic nuncio, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, led me to Joliet, and the beginning of a nine-month relationship with the local Church beginning on Dec. 27, 2019.

It was completely unknown as to what lay ahead. Among the first two to greet me were staffers Alex Rechenmacher and Michael Bava. They were very instrumental in quickly introducing me to the priests, deacons, diocesan staff and faithful in the diocese.

Alex and Mike were typical of the warm welcome I experienced from all.  Friendliness could not have been in greater supply and cooperation from all fronts was forthcoming. This “honeymoon” lasted for nine months, believe it or not!

In the early months, we pushed on with the ongoing activity of the diocese. Being a large Church, there was much to do. Then came coronavirus. I stumbled over its pronunciation the first few times I used it. It quickly became evident that this was a phenomenon like no other in the last century.

Because it was cruelly viral, it was essential to shut down Church activity and programs. Churches were fertile grounds for COVID-19. A “strange” environment thereafter evolved with “stay-at-home” orders in effect throughout the state.

I was impressed by the deeply rooted faith that sprouted. People prayed. They trusted in God and His Providence. Yet there was an especially dire side. Sickness took hold with the death of so many especially sad with the frequent and lonely deaths of the elderly.

One saving feature of the pandemic was the widespread utilization of livestreaming. A goodly number of our parishes employed it for Sunday and weekday Masses. Such was the case at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus. Our community of priests celebrated daily Mass. We could sense a community presence that was of widespread consolation.

As was inevitable, secular society along with Churches began to re-open gradually for services. Diocesan parishes, after receiving certification, opened their doors under strict safety protocols the weekend of June 6-7. From the start, safety has been first priority.  Under the leadership of the priests, deacons and lay volunteers, effective prevention measures have been sustained.

The life of the contemporary Church has been able to be renewed through adherence to requirements dedicated to staunching the spread of coronavirus. First Communions, Confirmations, larger weddings and funerals have been taking place. It is hoped that such can be maintained until the emergence of a vaccine or another remedy to counter the virus is developed.

Among the most satisfying and rewarding activities that I was privileged to participate in during my nine months were the ordinations of six priests and 17 permanent deacons. These ministers of Word and Sacrament are essential to the life blood of the Church. Presiding at Ordination Rites is a privilege all bishops cherish.

Another blessing that the diocese has experienced is the smooth transition of bishops. Bishop Emeritus R. Daniel Conlon determined “it was time” to retire. The diocese is deeply indebted for his nine years of service. Among other noteworthy accomplishments were the development of the Blanchette Catholic Center, his weekend pastoral visits to all the 126 parishes and missions and his evangelization pastoral letter entitled, “Go” He Said.

Subsequently, Pope Francis graced the Diocese of Joliet with the appointment of Bishop Ronald Hicks as its sixth ordinary. Known to many in the diocese, he brings a reputation for pastoral leadership, astute administration and, most importantly, a deep and unwavering faith and commitment to the Lord Jesus. There is ample justification for joy and optimism as this local Church embraces its future.

My sentiments as I plan to “re-retire” are ones of deep gratitude. I have enjoyed my sojourn in this blessed diocesan community. I have benefitted from unfailing kindness and support.  Many, many happy memories are with me as I move on. The words “Muchas Gracias” and "Thank You" are genuine and heartfelt.

I find the words of Jesus applicable to my departure.

“So with you: when you have done all you have been told to do, say, ‘We are useless servants: we have done no more than our duty’ ” (Luke 17:10).