Dear Rev. Fathers, Deacons, Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Greetings and peace in the Lord!
As you know, in December I had major surgery at Vancouver General Hospital. I am very grateful for the surgeons and the surgical team that assisted them. They preformed not one but two extensive surgeries, plus an interventional radiological treatment between the surgeries. The main neurosurgeon surgeon was very happy with the outcome, and equally me as well.
At this time, I still have many weeks of recovery ahead of me. The recovery is giving me time to reflect and appreciate all of the graces and blessing God has bestowed on me during this difficult time. I want to tell you how much I appreciate that you prayed for me. When hospitalized, during the blurry time between surgeries, praying was difficult if not impossible. This was one of the hardest things to deal with as prayer has been integral to my whole life.
When I reflect on this experience, I came to realize that when I couldn’t pray, you prayed for me. Your prayer got me thorough this experience, comforted me and enabled me to endure all the tests and procedures. What a gift!
So, I have much to be thankful for this New Year. I am thankful to God, not only for the gift of my life, but most of all, for all of you and your prayers and support.
I ask that you continue to pray for me and for one another. I continue to hold all of you in prayer and ask God's blessing on you for your love and goodness. God bless.
Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus our Lord,
Bishop of Nelson