The number you see above is Fr. Tim’s emergency pager number. I am giving it to you because I want you to be able to get a hold of me in case of an emergency or some DRAMATIC need. Let me tell you a bit about the pager and how we’re going to use it.
Some years ago I was visiting some friends I’d known from a previous parish. It was a free evening and I had no pressing duties. The phone rang at their house and someone was asking for Me! It turned out to be a tragic happening that I needed to be present to. (The staff person called several numbers just guessing as to where I might be.) God’s grace got us connected that night.
So I’ve thought a lot about that and in the future I think God could use a little help getting you in touch with me at those crucial moments. So, like so many of you, I now can be paged. I want to be a phone call away from anyone in serious need.
What is “serious need”? It could be a number of things . . . accident, health crisis, tragic news, an immediate and pressing need . . . anything that you think a priest might assist you with at a moment when life feels overwhelming and help is needed right now. Please call 521-0017.
What’s NOT a serious need? Oh let’s say . . . you’re feeling a little blue, you’re a little strapped for cash, your dog caught a splinter, the Yankees just lost three in a row and you need to talk to someone . . . for these I’d ask that you wait awhile before calling. I bet you could work these out for yourself.
If you DO call you will be asked either to leave a return number or a voice mail message describing the situation. Anyway, I think you’ll understand when I tell you I hope I NEVER hear from any of you on this number. If I never get one call on my pager that will make me happy!!
But please know I want to be there for you in those times that sooner or later happen to most of us . . . times of real sorrow and need.
God bless you and keep you well. What a great summer!
Hope you are enjoying it.
God bless you.
Fr. Tim
Fr. John is my “Wing Man”. He’s my backup should I be far away at the time of your call.
