I was completing a parish mission in December in Baton Rouge when I got a phone call from Fr. Fred Youngs, inviting me to do a parish mission this spring in his parish of St. Isidore’s in Baker (or north Baton Rouge).

When I was at the diocesan youth conference in Baton Rouge earlier this month, St. Isidore’s youth minister, Brigitte Burke, told me that Fr. Fred and the mission committee had different parishioners dressing up “in costume” to promote the themes of the different nights of the mission. That let me know that this parish was going to be something special.

And indeed, it was.

Over 300 people came out EACH night of the 3 night mission on “Reality Living.” That was amazing to me…and they came in all ages, from 6 to 86.

I enjoyed meeting the RCIA candidates. I am impressed by the people wanting to learn more about their faith…and the people who give of themselves to journey with these inquirers. I loved sharing a meal with, and meeting, teens after Sunday evening’s mass (did you ever read the book of Ex-o-dius?).

Speaking with the school children was a real treat…they made me feel very welcomed. (Thanks, Ms. Leader, for recommending me and for your staff’s working with me to allow so many school children to attend the mission!)

I also had a “relative” there—my father-in-law’s first cousin is secretary there!

There is a mutual appreciation going on between parishioners and their pastor, Fr. Fred. I heard a good number of stories of people whose lives have been shaped by his care. And it was heart warming to hear his love for the people he serves.

The week was one of laughter and thinking…of faith sharing and challenges to discipleship.

Thanks to Phil and Trudy, mission chairpersons; Brigitte and Dino Burke, my friends and mission contacts; Barbara M. (for working miracles with my copies) and Fr. Fred for hospitality.