Grateful for Gifts

Anonomous gifts. Never expected, sometimes dreaded, perhaps stunning (although that can be a rarity!)

I had an all school Mass at McNicholas High School this morning. Nothing extraordinary about that.

But, since Mass ended a little before noon, I headed next door to the seminary for lunch. (Membership has its priveledges.)

As I'm heading through the line, Jim stops me and says: "Hey, someone dropped off a painting for you last night while I was working in the library. It's up in my room, get it after lunch?"

(Cut to Father scratching his head...) Jim: "Oh, he thought you lived here and didn't seem to inclined to driving downtown." Right.... Father's getting nervous at this point.

Maybe I should explain. I've gotten art work in the past that reflected the giver's taste, but I wouldn't hang it in a closet in a spare bedroom! So, anytime something shows up, especially when unexpected, I always get a bit nervous.

Luckily, my nerves were unfounded. It was a good size, limited edition (#6 of 1,200!), print of Pope Benedict XVI. It was framed in a very nice frame, too! The card was signed: "You are such a blessing to spreading the faith and promoting vocations to the Church. God Bless and all your work." Unfortunately, I can't read the signature, but I greatly appreciate it.

Now my biggest concern is where to hang it, hmmm....