Fr. Tim has been a good friend of our community for many years - he is a priest of the Diocese of Steubenville, OH.
I have never tired of celebrating Holy Thursday Mass. I find myself humbled by its celebration and regularly have to ask, “Who am I to celebrate these great mysteries?” I certainly am not worthy but, through my ordination to the priesthood, I am to be a witness to the grace of Christ working in me through the priesthood and through the Eucharist, especially in Holy Week.
What about the washing of the feet is special for you? At the Last Supper Jesus washed the feet of his Apostles as a sign of service to them and, by extension, to the entire community of humankind. It’s very powerful for me – I’m washing the feet of these people that come up – I always kiss their feet. It’s extremely humbling to wash people’s feet – because you’re in front of the church, head honcho of the parish, here I am – I’m never bigger than you are.
As you celebrate 50 years of priesthood this year, what do you find yourself most grateful for? Tough question. I’m grateful that I survived. The fact that I could respond in the last 50 years to the various ways that God has asked me to serve the Church. I would’ve never guessed in a thousand years that I would wind up doing all the things I’ve done – they weren’t my idea. Most of the time they were circumstances that occurred or a request from the Bishop. I didn’t come in to teach high schools, lead RCIA, teach catechists, or be a published author.
What has been one of your favorite things in ministry? A favorite thing about parish life is seeing the lights go on for someone - when they have a conversion of heart and see that God is real. I love seeing people come alive. Some of these people who have had conversions have remained my friends for years. I’ve married couples, baptized all their kids, and become good friends with them and connect with them when I can.
Any closing thoughts? The priesthood is rooted in the Eucharist and service. That’s what’s so important about Holy Thursday – the washing of the feet, the Eucharist itself. As a priest, that’s when the priesthood came about - when the Eucharist came about. The Mass colors everything I do.
