My friend Bill was ordained as a transitional deacon a few weeks ago, but his journey toward the Catholic priesthood differs from that of most men. Most men, after all, have not made such a journey accompanied by their wives.
It was 36 years ago that Bill Lowe was ordained as an Episcopal priest in the Boston area. Like many Episcopal priests, he was married, and Bill and Linda raised a family while he served in his ministry.
Five years ago Bill and Linda were received into the Catholic Church and began the process that would eventually lead Bill to the Catholic priesthood. Their journey --- by their account, circuitous, humbling, fascinating and a true blessing --- has also become the journey of Blessed Junípero Serra Church in Camarillo.
From the moment they joined the Padre Serra community, Bill and Linda have been active parishioners, serving on parish committees and becoming an integral part of the life of the parish. Most knew Bill as a fellow parishioner long before learning of his studies to become a Catholic priest.
Both Bill and Linda see this as an important piece of their journey because they see themselves as regular parishioners as well. Over the past few years, as Bill moved through the Pastoral Provision process, one of the most valuable things he learned was "how to be a layperson again," and he does not want to lose that perspective.
By contrast, as a young man he had very few adult years as a layman; mainly, he had the identity of a seminarian, a graduate student and eventually a priest. As a priest he had certain clothes, duties and standing in the community. He arrived in Camarillo a stranger, his prior, long-established identity unknown to his fellow parishioners. It may be that Bill's awareness of the role of the laity will be the greatest gift he brings to any parish community he serves.
Bill and Linda, who characterize their life as a pilgrimage, believe the Padre Serra community is now on the pilgrimage with them. As Bill approaches his ordination to the priesthood he feels, as never before, that God and this community have called him. "The support of the community has sustained me over the past few years," he says. "They have urged, encouraged and wept with me through the process, and celebrated with me at the diaconate ordination."
Bob and Catherine Shadduck, longtime Padre Serra parishioners involved in RCIA and liturgy planning, describe Bill as a compassionate man. They appreciate his sense of ministry and believe his experience being married and involved in diverse areas of ministry for many years will translate naturally into local parish work. They appreciate all he brings to the Roman Catholic priesthood.
Julia Snell, who has worked alongside Bill in bereavement ministry, is also impressed by his compassion as well as his ability "to truly listen and convey to whoever is speaking how important their story is."
Helene McCormack, a parishioner who was in a bereavement support group facilitated by Bill, said he was there for her as she cried and cried over the loss of her husband. "He will be very helpful to married couples and ministries that deal with everyday life," she said, adding she is hopeful Bill will help initiate ministries that serve people who have been somewhat marginalized or overlooked.
Chase Lichtenstein, chairperson of the Padre Serra Pastoral Council, and his wife Marie believe "this is a wonderful opportunity for the parish. There will be some adjustment, but for those who have lived through change in the church the adjustment will come with ease."
Like others, they are happy another priest will be able to help with the duties and ministries of such a large parish. Marie hopes that sometime in the future more married men and women will be coming through seminaries.
As a fellow parishioner, I am blessed to be involved in this wonderful experience. It shows the wisdom of Church leaders and offers hope for the future.
Anne Hansen is a parent education consultant and a parishioner at Blessed Junípero Serra Church, Camarillo. Her e-mail address is familymail@aol.com.
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