Weekends come quickly, and around here, that means preparing for the celebration of the Eucharist. This week, as I participated in the Masses, I was aware of the many families and individuals, visitors and residents who were here, but I was also aware of some who weren't. In particular, I was thinking of my friends who would normally be front and centre every week in the gathering.
I first met them in the Church, and throughout the years of our friendship, faith and prayer have been an integral part of the glue that has held us together. It seems strange to thnk that they are not present, here or in any church, but then again perhaps they are. In their case, the church goes to where they are ... at present, in the Civic Hospital in Ottawa.
According to my most recent update, the decision (as difficult as it is) has now been made that my friend will soon be transferred to paliative care. This decision does not come easily, but considering all the options, and relying on the advice of the medical experts, it would appear that my friend has already beat the odds. He returned to work after a surgery from which many do not ever regain consciousness. He regained consciousness after a second surgery, something that not many indeed ever achieve, and now he still appears to have some 'good' days when he can communicate (through a squeeze of the hand) with those who are close. It appears that he is peaceful, and not suffering even though he has not regained consciousness after the mid-October intervention.
Questions abound, some very difficult questions, for those who must make the decisions now. Questions also exist for those who must stand by and watch. At times when it is most difficult to believe based on the story that seems to be unfolding, faith in the promise of resurrection beacons to show the way.
When it isn't possible for people of faith to be present at the table, I wonder whether the table moves to be present where people of faith must gather.
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