Personal Reflection by Connie Polaniecki
What’s it like to change parishes after belonging to the same parish for 70 years?
That’s what I have been asking myself for the past five years. My thoughts of sadness, anxiousness, and loss which are coupled with anticipation, optimism, embracing, and acceptance are still with me and change from day to day.
My faith journey began with my Baptism at St. Cornelius Parish and continued there with schooling, reception of sacraments, marriage; and children’s sacraments and attendance at our school, and even the marriage of one of my children and the funerals of my parents.
These, and many hours of participation in ministries and volunteer work, ended with the closure of St. Cornelius.
So, after living this long history in one parish and having a humongous change thrust upon me, I ask myself: how have I endured the last five years?
Do I miss the physical St. Cornelius church building and other parish structures? Answer: somewhat. St. Cornelius
Church was brighter and modern. SEOTT has beautiful stained-glass windows, but couldn’t that black/gray and white marble be some other color?
Do I miss the St. Cornelius people? Yes – quite a bit. However, some of these people have joined SEOTT along with me and my husband. Also, with this move, I have had the opportunity to meet new people and form new acquaintances and friends.
I still struggle with attending liturgies in a different building, and I miss the people who joined other parishes. But, I have endured and it has been easier than I expected.
That’s because my faith teaches me that God is everywhere and in everyone. It is not all that important where I meet Him. It’s important that I do meet up with Him.
For me, that is what my worship and relationship with Him is all about. It is why I continue at SEOTT. Anytime I begin to feel down about the changes, I remind myself that I believe in the virtues of faith, hope and love, and I can bring these with me anywhere I go.
I don’t know where I will be when Our Lord calls me home, but until then, with His blessings, I will make the best of where I am.
“Parishioners Corner” is a dedicated space for parishioners. All are invited to share their thoughts about the parish merger and building the new reality of SEOTT.
In addition, we invite parishioner thoughts about a journey of faith, a moment of grace, a prayer intention, or a reflection on the readings.
Send your thoughts (anonymously if you wish) to the Rectory office.