I have maintained my membership in the Canon Law Society of America since being appointed pastor of St. Cecilia’s. I have been an active member since 1984 when I completed my degree in canon law at the Gregorian University in Rome. The Society is made up of about 1800 canonists, most from the United States, who are involved for the most part in some ministry involving canon law. Some are current or former practitioners who were teachers, worked in a marriage tribunal, or assisted in a diocesan chancery. Some canon lawyers are engaged in advocacy work for those in need of canonical assistance.

I had the honor of serving as President of the society several years ago, and have always enjoyed attending the national convention where I meet former colleagues and learn about new developments in the field of church law.

This year the convention was held in Fort Worth, Texas. What made this trip particularly enjoyable was the opportunity to renew acquaintances with the bishop of Fort Worth, Kevin Vann, who is a former classmate of mine from our time together in Rome. He was consecrated and installed to this position a little over a year ago, and from all accounts seems to be enjoying his new ministry. He formerly served as a priest of the Diocese of Springfield, Illinois before being appointed bishop of Fort Worth by Pope Benedict.

The talks at the convention were particularly interesting. The topic, or theme of the convention was “Consultation in the Life of the Church.” Speakers included Oscar Andrés Cardinal Rodriguez, cardinal archbishop of  Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Cardinal Rodriguez spoke eloquently of consultation in the Church today and shared many personal insights from his experience as an archbishop. There were a variety of speakers, who addressed such topics as parish finance councils, pastoral councils and effective means of collaboration in the Church today.  I also attended a few committee meetings.

Leaving Fort Worth was somewhat challenging, as our flight was delayed due to some “weather problems” reported in Rochester. However, things could have been worse… I could have been flying to Buffalo – where a surprise and severe snowstorm was whipping the area. Made it back … and was on deck Friday for the 9:00 Mass and a funeral.

God is good.  Stay tuned…

(October 18, 2006)