From the Desk of Deacon Judy

Resurrection

I am Resurrection and I am Life, says the Lord. Whoever has faith in me shall have life, even though he die. And everyone who has life, and has committed himself to me in faith, shall not die forever.

This opening refrain of our Burial of the Dead liturgy is ever present on my mind in this glorious Easter season, this season of Resurrection and New Life.

On Friday, I shall hear this liturgy at the service of Elma Tuohy, a dear friend and mentor, wife of Jim, the priest who called me up to be a deacon.

When Jim died two years ago, I prepared a photo memory book of our times together at St. Andrew’s Montevallo and on our Grand Pilgrimage to Ireland, their beloved native land. I still mean what I wrote then to Elma:

“I am so grateful for both Jim and you. You both were so important for my spiritual growth and for the marvelous perspective of the importance of joy in our lives. Also, I shall always remember Anna and how she glowed with the love of God – like Jesus at the Transfiguration. “

Anna was Elma’s Mother Superior. Elma was a nun who joined Anna by boat from Ireland to Alabama. I remember her saying: “I cried and I cried all the way to Alabama.”

Jim, an Irish Catholic priest, was sent to Alabama as a missionary.

Love bloomed and they married.

Jim became an Episcopal priest; Elma taught English at Advent School in Huntsville and at Indian Springs School in Birmingham. James Joyce was her favorite author.

They found new life in Alabama on their earthly pilgrimage; they now enjoy life eternal with their beloved Lord.

Father of all, we pray to you for those we love, but see no longer: Grant them your peace; let light perpetual shine upon them; and, in your loving wisdom and almighty power, work in them the good purpose of your perfect will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Easter Blessings,

Judy Q+