When I began this blog, my header image was the New Testament scene where Jesus flogged the money-changers out of the temple. I imaged myself and all priests flogging the devils that distort the faith and assault believers. The faith that gives us consolation can and should also make us very uncomfortable. Both Divine Mercy and Divine Justice meet in Jesus. Priests are ministers of reconciliation, but never at the cost of truth. In or out of season, we must be courageous in preaching and living out the Gospel of Life. The title of my blog is a play on words, not Flogger Priest but Blogger Priest.
Fr. Joe Jenkins, this blog on Monsignor Awalt is a great tribute to an exceptional priest. He was a father to me. I grieved his death. Often, he is in my thoughts and prayers and I am ever-grateful that I visited him every time I travelled to Washington and Potomoc. I will not forget in this lifetime my meeting you at Saint Ann’s the summer I took CPE in 1991. Em, Hattie, Carol, that great Sister Petra, Mr. Jerry O’Hanlon, and wonderful Monsignor and many others. There was an eccentric lady named “Irene” in the congregation. It was all wonderful.
Take care. God bless you for this fitting tribute to Monsignor and this great service to the priesthood and all who read your blog. (I do remember how Monsignor asked you to speak at his 50th Anniversary celebration. Well done. God bless. Perhaps we will one day have the chance to visit. Fr. Scott Chemino, V.G., Bunkie/Alexandria, Louisiana.