As much as I enjoyed working the 1987 Papal visit, and working as a newly ordained priest escorting the Papal Party during the 1993 World Youth Day, there are significant aspects of John Paul II’s life and ministry I admired. First and foremost, I truly appreciated Pope John Paul II’s Read more…
After what I thought was a once in a lifetime experience, working the 1987 Papal Visit, there were other opportunities to be in the presence of this holy man. In fact, I’m sure his courage, prayerfulness and inspiring presence had something to do with my own decision to go back Read more…
As the world begins to turn its attention to Rome for the beatification of Pope John Paul II this Sunday, I wish to share a few of my own memories of this “Great” Pope and holy man. After a two year tour of college seminary and graduation in 1986, I Read more…
In Wyoming, no matter how late Easter falls, due to the prevailing wind, Easter Fires are normally held inside the Church. Last night, as the vigil began, it was 35 degrees and snowing!
To all who visit these pages, prayers for a Blessed Easter Sunday and Easter Season! I hope and pray this Lent and Triduum were a unique and grace-filled time for all of you. May this Easter grant all of us a renewed and even deeper experience of faith and life Read more…
Easter Homily 2011; Most Reverend Paul D. Etienne Happy Easter! I’d like to begin my reflections tonight by recalling the opening words as we gathered around the Easter Fire, because they succinctly remind us of the significance of what we celebrate: If we honor the memory of the Lord’s death Read more…
One of the strangest “features” of this day is the empty tabernacle. The vigil lamp remains dark, the tabernacle empty. The tomb is now occupied. Soon, The tomb will be empty and the tabernacles occuppied once again, and the lamps lit proclaiming the indwelling of the Lord. Our vigil continues Read more…
Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there. (John 19:41-42) Read more…
Good Friday 2011, Most Reverend Paul D. Etienne While praying the Stations of the Cross one Friday during this Lent, I had an intense insight into the reality of sin. I was uniquely aware of the reality of my own sin and the significant damage it does to my relationship Read more…
Holy Thursday 2011 Most Reverend Paul D. Etienne This evening, in this Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the Church recalls how Jesus celebrates the Passover with his disciples, bringing the Passover Meal to its ultimate purpose and meaning. In the days leading up to this Passover, Jesus spoke in unflinching Read more…