In April, we all learned of Fr. Dennis’ health prognosis. It was at that time that I posted the news of his health issues and asked that we all join in on a deluge of prayers for Fr. Dennis. That particular post had more views than any other previous posting and I am confident that as a result, an overwhelming amount of prayers were offered up on behalf of Fr. Dennis.

I recently heard from one of my Holy Name classmates, Debbie Abbatangelo Stewart,of  regarding a wonderful symbol of Hope for Fr. Dennis that is now available. Debbie is the secretary and bookkeeper for the parish and works closely with Fr. Dennis each day. Debbie wrote –

Hi Jim,

Please post something about the prayer bands. They can email office@christthelightoftheworld.org and I’ll mail as many as they want. If they want to make a donation they can make the check out to Christ the light of the World. They can also call the office at 412-469-0196. Donations are welcomed but not necessary. (Christ the Light of the World Parish –  32 S 1st St, Duquesne, PA 15110) We want to have as many people from all over praying for Fr. Dennis. He believes the prayers are working so far.

He saw the ALS specialist and as of now it is ” inconclusive” to say he has ALS. They will be watching his progress to see which direction it’s going in. Fr. Does not want to “embrace ” ALS at this time so he decided to give the donations to breast cancer. Any help is greatly appreciated!!

Debbie

I for one, am anxious to receive a band as a reminder, not only of Fr. Dennis, but of the power of prayer within a community of friends, neighbors, and the prayerful and compassionate people who read this blog. I will be requesting one for my wife and each of my daughters as well. The donation I’ll be make will also touch so many lives as well.

When it was first announced that the bands were available, the following announcement appeared in the Sunday bulletin:

When Fr. Dennis first told us of his health problem, he said, “If I go out of this life, I want to be surrounded by the love and prayers of family, friends and parishioners.” Picking up on that wish, green wrist bands, signifying the color for Hope have been designed, and on them is embossed, “Our Love Surrounds Fr. Dennis.” Fr. Dennis has asked that when you wear the band and think of him, say a short prayer – a valuable and vital concrete way to assist him. All donations will be given to the Susan G.Komen Cure for Breast Cancer.

Finally, I thought you might be inspired by latest offering “From the Pastor’s Desk:

Inspirational Anecdotes & Wisdom

* I’ve learned that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences. * I’ve learned that your life can be changed in an instant by people you don’t even know. * I’ve learned that writing, as well as talking, can ease emotional pains. * I’ve learned that learning to forgive takes practice. * I’ve learned that there are people who love you dearly, but just don’t know how to show it. * I’ve learned that money is a lousy way of keeping score. * I’ve learned that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you’re down may be the ones to help you get back up. * I’ve learned that I am getting more and more like my grandparents, and I’m kind of happy about it. * I’ve learned that when I’m angry, I may have the right to be angry, but that doesn’t give me the right to be cruel. * I’ve learned that maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you’ve had and what you learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you’ve celebrated. * I’ve learned never to tell a child their dreams are outlandish or unlikely. Few things are more humiliating, and they may believe it. * I’ve learned that no matter how good a friend someone is, they’re going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. * I’ve learned that it isn’t enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself. * I’ve learned that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. * I’ve learned that sometimes you have to put the individual ahead of their actions. * I’ve learned that you don’t have to change friends if you understand friends change. * I’ve learned that no matter the consequences, those who are honest with themselves get further ahead in life. * I’ve learned no matter how fast or far you go, you can’t out run God. * I’ve learned that love is not for me to keep, but to pass on to the next person I see.    –    Anonymous