A FULL AND THOROUGH 4TH DAY OF REHABILITATION THERAPIES...........

Two of my nurses gave me an invigorating thorough shower in a shower chair at 9 pm last night, so that after breakfast in the Dining Room, I was ready to shift into gear for four PT, OT, and Recreational Therapy sessions before 8;30 am - 12 Noon, followed by a one hour PT Wheelchair Skills session, teamed with another Rehab patient, learning to operate, park, position, and be independently, as much of the wheelchair as possible. t I sat up for five hours straight again and then after only forty minutes back in bed following lunch, I was in the wheelchair again for nearly 2 hours more. My nurse and I have decided, having just received my latest pain medication dose that I will eat my dinner in bed, as my bed is tired from the day's therapies and 7 hours of sitting up, and I want to keep my lower left back infection pain minimalized, so as to be best prepared for tomorrow. A hamburger, with plain pasta, applesauce, strawberry gelatin, and decaf coffee, were dinner, after watching delivery and news analysis of Governor Brown's State Of The State Address; and now before nodding off CNN's Egyptian Uprising coverage, then prayers and sleep. I conversed by phone with Msgr. Ed Kavanagh and Fr. Steve Avella, and had visits from Fr, Tony Traynor, Fermo, a former parishioner, and Ctherine Campisi and Ralph Black...........Tired For All The Right Reasons Tonight, Fr. Troy

EARLY MORNING SUNDAY THERAPY AND FIRST VISITOR OF THE DAY FROM OLOL...........

This morning's Physical and Occupational Therapy sessions took place back to back today. PT, was more right leg stretching exercises, and the OT basically brushing my teeth and combing my hair. OLOL parishioner, Joe Ansboro, stopped by to visit at 10 am, with a Sunday Bulletin in hand. I sat up in the wheelchair for 4 hours straight, and came back to bed juast before Noon and lunch, well ready to return to bed after 4 solid hours sitting up. Roger and Karin Geach, as well as Ramona Bugatto, Teres Mugnaini, and her daughter Lauren, came to visit me during the lunch hour. Avery enjoyable visit between friends who have come to know each other through me unfolded. After their departure, I napped briefly and watched more of CNN's 'Egypt In Crisis' coverage, and at 2:20 pm, was surprised by second visit from Bishop Jaime Soto. Time to rest some more, with the hope of getting up for dinner, and watching the Screen Actors Guild Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award to iconic 94 year old, Ernest Borgnine..........Keeping My Right Leg And My Spirits Up, Fr. Troy

PROTESTING AND UPHEAVAL IN EGYPT - WILL MUBARAK HAVE TO RESIGN AND OR FLEE ?...........

Having been awake and dressed since 6:20 am, and having rolled myself personally to and from the Dining Room for breakfast, and now back in my room, awaiting Occuptionalin the next 20 -80 minutes, I am watching U.S. Secreary of State Hillary Clinton on CNN's "State of the Union", with Candy Crowley, one of the five Sunday news talk show, she is appearing on today regarding the revolt crisis occurring this Day 7, in Egypt in opposition to 30 year Dictator, Hosni Mubarak. Diplomatically and strategically this is a Catch 22 occurrence for the American government. As our chief ally and peace process partner, in defense of Israel, for more than thirty years, we cannot simply disavow or force Mubarak from power, but the Obama Administration needs to work assidiously for a free and open election for President of Egypt, which the Mubarak government must honestly accept, whatever the outcome, and seriously contemplate the end of his three decade regime and step down, allowing for a more tolerable and acceptable leadership for the Egyptian People. "Consent not Coercion", in President Obama's words are key to resolving the protests and providing for free and open elections, that President Mubarak and all parties must abide by, After thirty years in control of Egpyt, despite the moderating Middle East influence he has been, the time for stepping down and allowing for a proper transition of power, as the average 24 year Egyptians are not likely to settle for yes..........With Prayers And Optimism For The Outcome The Egyptian People Deserve In Freedom And Justice, Fr. Troy

SUTTER REHAB EVALUATION AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN THE MORNING; PHYSICAL THERAPY THIS AFTERNOON..........

This second day of Rehab at Sutter Roseville has been an active day. My nurses awoke me at 5:20 am to change my scrubs and wash up. Just after 8 am, they shift boarded out of bed into the wheelchair to the Rehab Dining Room for breakfast wirth rest of the Rehab patients, followed immediateky by my Occupational Yhereapy session, which today was about pulling up and pulling down my pants independently from a seated position in the wheelchair. I struggled and succeeded in doing so in 6 minutes, although it felt like it took at least 30 minutes. I spoke with Farher Oliver this A.M., also. His olest Aunt Mona, died at ae 87, last Sunday. From Spain and his golf holiday week, he returned home and went down tio County Cork to preside over Aunt Mona's Funeral. A pre lunch telephone conversation with Ramona Bugatto, rounded out my mornong. and rested until Ph Having sat up in the wheelchair three aqnd a quarter hours after Occupational Therapy, and tired out, I opted to have lunch in bed and rested until my Physical Therapy in the 2 p, hour. Sitting up an additional fortry minutes, before going back to bed, for now four hours seems my maximum sitting endurance, which I will stretch further in coming weeks. The late afternoon, before dinner, I received a visit from Louis, Donna, and Rose Mauro, the parents and grandmother, of my late friend, Alex Mauro, from Presentation Parish; and another visit from Rev. Fr. Steven Foppiano, Pastor of St. Clare's in West Roseville. Dinner was pasto with pesto sauce and chicken. Then behold, to my surprise, 'Night owl Troy', is becoming, "Roll up the strrets Powers", at just after 8 pm. I just the Chaplain I spoke with Driday is right, this therapy does tire our bodies out quickly...........I Am Hoping For A Peaceful, Prayerful, Minimally Painful, Overnight And Sleep, Fr. Troy

MY FIRST FULL DAY IN SUTTER ROSEVILLE REHABILATATION...........

Yesterday afternoon and last night were about introductions, orientations, and readiness, for today's launch of my rehab therapy. The meetings with ny nurses and the chief doctor over the Rehab Program went well yesterday; and dinner was my favorite - breast of turkey, with stuffing, and even orange flavored ice milk. Rhonda, my afternoon and evening LVN, yesterday - did the laundry I had, so I have initial clothes for today's therapy, although I need a lighter top to rehab in, or melt !!!!!!!!!! The temporary answer is to wear scrubs, tomorrow, for my 8:30 am Evaluation after breakfast, and the day's proceedings. I will have one of the OLOL parishioners bring me the clothing recommended for my stay in SRI. Frank McNanara phoned last night to check in on me, and assured me he and Joe, will come together to visit me soon. My nursing staff overnight were superb, attentive without being obtrusive; and it was a quieter, more orderly, overnight than I had reason yesterday to belief it might be, given the status of some of the other rehab patients. Good friends, faithful parishioners, loyal supporters, and caring and concerned colleagues. I Am Blessed, despite my physial health challenges...........All Things Considered In The Wake Of My Right Foot Amputation Six Days Ago, "GOD IS GOOD" !!!!!!!!!!! Fr. Troy

DAY 5.5 FOLLOWING MY RIGHT FOOT AMPUTATION; AWAITING HOSPITAL DISCHARGE AND ENROLLMENT IN SUTTER ROSEVILLE REHABILITATION..........

I am awaiting the arrival of my priestly colleagues, Reverend Father John Folmer, and Reverend Father Steven Avella, who coming to Sutter Roseville Hospital to see me this morning. Dr. Randy Martin, was in to see me just before 8:30 am and said we will continue the antibiotic regim, as it seems to be working. Dr. Cookson should be in later, perhaps with a bandages change to make. My pain medications for my back have been increased, and are administered every five hours, as of this morning. Carol,the Discharge Nurse was just here to see me with the news, I am being discharged from the hospital and will be trnsferred into Rehabilitation today, once they secure a bed for me. So Rehab begins today, in Building # 6 a short distance away from where I lay. That will make Frs. Avella , who came to see me this morning, and my Irish American friend Joseph Patrick McNamara, whi visited me at the lunch hour, transitional visitors. It is time to freshen up, before lunch and my transfer over to Sutter Rehabilitation Institute, SRI.......... Forward, Progress, Fr. Troy

2011 STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS PROVIDES SUBSTANCE AND FOCUS WITHOUT DETAILS...........

President Obama delivered his 3rd State Of The Union Address Tuesday night in a rare atmosphere of bipartisanship and togetherness, at least for a night. It was a more than hour long speech from the dias of the U.S. House of Representatives, with Democratic Vice President Joseph Biden, and Republican Speaker of the House John Boehner, of Ohio, seated behind President Obama. The President was focused on the substance he came to talk about, without going into details of the policies he is proposing, specially in cutting the nstional deficit. But in part that is a political ritual of State of the Union, speaking generally more than specifically, to save one's political capital for later in the compromising and negotiating processes of governing and reaching Presidential / Congressional agreement, in a divided government, poltical compromise circumstance. I watched CNN's pre to post "SOTU", Coverage, from 4 pm - 12 Midnight. The 112th Congress and the second half of the first Obama Administration, whether there is more beyond or not; have been joined. Now let's see how much effective governance, not overshadawowed by 2012 Presidential politics, we can achieve for the common good of all Americans..........In The Hope And Attainment The State Of Our Is Strong And Growung Stronger, Fr. Troy

JUST AHEAD.....R.E.H.A.B.I.L.I.T.A.T.I.O.N. ..........

The Assistant Director of Sutter Roseville Rehabilitation Program dropped in to see me Monday afternoon, and we discussed its fit for me. Dr. Cookson believes it is a very good choice for me and recommended me to it. Paperwork is in progress, so that when the hospital is ready to release me, I will transition into ReHab, right here on the Sutter Roseville campus. It is an agressive regimen of three hours a day, five days a week, for a twelve to fourteen day period. The hope then is to return me to OLOL rectory, where my convalescence / rehabilitation will continue under Dr. Cooksen's direction. From what he shared with me Monday, Dr. Cookson wants to take 8 - 10 weeks preparing me for the healed stump , to be placed on the best possible prosthesis; with the hopeful expectation of a perfect complimentary match, that will allow me to attach them and get up and begin walking and working, unfettered by pain, infection, or encumbrance. Paul Friedrich, Deacon Candidate at Presentation Parish, in Arden - who will be doing his pastoral formation internship with me and OLOL, came to see me Tuesday morning,; just as the physical therapist John, was assisting me to shuffle board myself from the bed into the wheelchair. Earlier on that front, Dr. Randy Martin, the Infectious Medicine specialist; and Dr. Cookson were both in to see me about how my back and the amputated foot and leg are doing. Dr. Cookson unwrapped the bandages for the first time since Saturday's amputatation, and said my right foot / leg looked exactly as he wanted it to look, with no sign of infection or other problems,and with a proper rosy hue. In late afternoon Oroville's St. Thomas the Apostle Deacon Emmett Pogue, and his wife Jackie, were here for a well rounded visit; Ray Riehle called to check in, and say he will come by to visit tomorrow; and Curtis Richards made his usual late call, tonight from Wisconsin, were he is working from. From 4 pm - 12 Midnight, I watched thorough coverage of President Obama's 3rd "State Of The Union" Address, about which I will bring more in coming days. That's all for now and Day 4, post amputation, in Sutter Roseville Hospitial..........LET THE REHABILTATION SOON UNFOLD, Fr. Troy The Optimistic.....

DAY TWO POST AMPUTATION - MAINTAINING THE LOW PAIN AS I KEEP MY LEG STRAIGHT..........

After completing my breakfast, I telephoned Bishop Soto, to inform him of my first thrty six hours of post right foot amputation care is going. My Orthpodecic Surgeon, Dr. James Cookson, arrived in the hospital immediately thereafter, to see me. After a fruitful first post amputation meeting with Dr. Cooksen, in which he said my body's blood white cell count is down, except in regards to the back infection, and that I should fully cooperate with the physical therapists in getting out and into bed, and moving my body about, especially my ampututated right foot / leg, his one request of me today, that I keep the amputation straight in bed. I was up out of bed for two hours, through the eating my dieabetic lunch. Shortly, after returning to bed, with help of the physical therapist, who discovered the left leg was of no help whatsoever, due to my birthate defect and lifelong left side weakness; I dozed off for a few minutes, to awake with Msgr. Bob Walton and Sacred Heart Parish RCIA Director Rita Spillane. Msgr. Bob learned yesterday from Sacred Heart parishioners of my right foot amputation. So he and Rita, came to pray, visit, and bring me Holy Communion. As Msgr. Bob was finishing giving me Communion, Msgr. Ed Kavanagh arrived to pray with and have an extended visit with me. I bid Bob and Rita farewell, and returned to praying and conversing with Kavanagh Victor joined us more than a half into our converation and they moved on their way in about three quarters of an hour, at 2:30 pm. For a then mostly quiet afternoon, until dinner, and then only a telephone conversation with Joe Gibson and last night of the day phone talk with Curtis Richards..........To A Day Tryng To Keep My Newly Amputated Foot Straight, For Which I Self Grade Myself A Solid, "B", Fr. Troy

EIGHTS DAYS IN SUTTER ROSEVILLE HOSPITAL UNDER TREATMENT FOR RIGHT FOOT INFECTION; ON FRIDAY I WILL HAVE AN MRI, TO VERIFY WHETHER IT HAS SPREAD TO A BACK IMFECTION - AND ON SATURDAY THE AMPUTATION OF MY RIGHT FOOT...........

I have been admitted and in testing, at Sutter - Roseville Medical Center, hospital of record since my onset of Diabetes, in 2002, since Friday February 14. After having having cut through several days of unprecedented hospital mumble jumble for me, things got down to my reason for being here - When my 9 year Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. James Cookson, was fully engaged in examing, and testing me, by Wednesday January 19, he came to me with what he called, "his final decision recommendation". That being, the Amputation of my Right Foot, as soon as possible, even by Saturday. He asked me to, "Think, Pray, and Talk, on it, and tell him my decision right away. A further testing scan, of the White Blood Cells in my Right Foot, shows much more of an increase, as it does in my lower left, but was undetected. After a verdict following a belated MRI scan on my back, Friday afernoon, that it was infectious with a,"substantial abcess", I was asked to await contact from the Doctor overseeing the MRI. When he did not respond to seeing me by 9 am Saturday; I set my channel of wheels of communication in motion, so as not to risk my Amputation Surgery Appointment with Doctor Cookson.
With no response from the MRI Doctor, until after 3 pm, only rationalizing and refusing to do the MRI abcess draining process, and then for the other infectious Disease Doctor on duty, to see me, and when he did at Dr. Cooksen's "vehement request he do",  a very frustrated Dr. Cooksen, operating through his Saturday afternoon schedule of patients, putting me on the schedule at 5:30 pm, without my MRI Abcess Test Report being done first;
Dr. Cooksen proceeded with the Amputation Surgery; and I was in Recovery by 8:30 pm Saturday and back in my own Room 234, by 11:30 pm. I had my Back Abcess Process, at 9:30 am, Sunday -
led by another Sutter Roseville Doctor and his medical assistants. I AM VERY HAPPY TO REPORT A MINIMALLY PAINFUL FIRST DAY COPING WITH HAVING MY RIGHT FOOT AMPUTATED..........Fr. Troy

FRIDAY AND A FOURTH DAY OF UNWAVERING BACK PAINS LEADS ME TO AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR, MCMONAGLE TODAY...........

I have will have an 11:15am appointment with Dr. James McMonagle, my primary care care physician and diabetic specialist, to begin sussiing out the causes of my current pain and immobility. I hope it doesn't entail a hospital stay...........More Soon Blog Readers...........Prayers And Peace, Fr. Troy

A THIRD DAY OF PERSISTING BACK PAIN...........

This will be short, if not sweet.  My lower left back pain continues, despite constant rest in the supine position, and pain relievers every four hours.  I was so sore and unsteady this morning, I did not celebrate Mass.  I have been unable to wordprocess the Sunday Bulletin and will have to see my doctors about treating the pain.  Hopefully, I will be up for the weekend...........Fr. Troy

A DAY OFF HUGGING MY BED FOR A SECOND DAY AS MY BACK PAIN CONTINUES...........

I am sorry to be letting my blog readers down for a second consecutive as my left lower back pain continues.  I got up this morning as I did yesterday. and slowly made my way over to the church to concelebrate the 8 am Mass with Fr, Traynor, in a seated position, while he presided.  Returning to my rooms in the rectory, I went immediately back to bed sleeping and taking pain reliever every four hours.  The pain is better today, but persists.  After six hours in bed, I have gotten up and into the recliner, therefore, I decided to try blogging a few words to you.  My companion on this expereience today in addition to Jesus, is NPR / PRI / BBC, ON 89.3 FM, KQEI.  I pray the back pain will resolve itself, as soon as tomorrow.  Wishful thinking ?  I will know on Thursday.  Tonight, from my bed or recliner, Iplan to watch the Tucson Memorial Service for the victims of Satrurday's shooting.  Otherwise in the news today is that the government of Lebanon has collapsed, while the Prime Minister is here in the United States meeting with President Obama.  Meanwhile, Vice President Biden has arrived in Iraq today, after being in Afghanistan yesterday...........That's It For This Edition One Year To The Day After The Haitian Earthquake,   Fr.  Troy

THE SECOND DAY OF ORDNARY TIME NOT SO ORDINARY FOR YOURS TRULY ...........

I awoke this morning with a very sore pinch in my left lower back, making standing and walking difficult.  Taking a couple of Tylenol pain reliever, I was able to greet dressed and make my way over to the Church.  I asked Father Traynor to preside at the Morning Mass and I concelebrated with him seated.  After Mass an I returned to the rectory and instead of wordprocessing the Sunday Bulletin, I laid down to rest my body and lesson the back pain.  Now, eight hours later I feel much improved, but the back pain is still persisting.  My  work day was not totally scrubbed as I was able to deal with two administrative matters over the phone and give direction to the Parish Secretary in addressing other questions that arose today.  After eating dinner within the next hour, I will lay my head low and take more Tylenol, in the hope my back pain will be gone within the next.  Tomorrow is my weekly day off, so that the 8 am Mass is my only scheduled activity.  Writing this brief blog update on the second day of Ordinary Time, ten hours later than planned, in fidelity to you my international blog readers........... Physically Sore But Patiently Enduring,   Fr.  Troy

THE SADDEST VICTIM OF THE TUCSON SENSELESS SHOOTING ON SATURDAY..........

No innocent human life should ever be injured or killed by the violent act of another person.  Thus, all twenty members of Saturday's sensless shootingin Tucson, Arizona, by the man thought responsible, Gerard Laughner is a grevious crime against humanity, as well as those twenty victims and their familes and neighbors.  Each wounding, and killing, last Saturday was of equal gravity, but I believe one of the deaths is the saddest tragedy of all.  Nine year old Christina Green's killing, a young girl who was present therfe because of her interest in politics and government, deeply touches my heart.  Christina was only two years older than I was, when in 1963-64, I became fascinated and involved in American politics and government, right here in Sacramento.  From President Kennedy's Assasination in November 1963, to readsing a biography of American Presidents - Washington through Eisenhower - on vacation with her in the summer of 1964, to seeing President Lyndon Johnbson and Senator Hubert Humphrey, his running mate, at the California State Capitol in September 1964, where I got up close enough in the large crowd, to share an electrifying handshake with Senator Humphrey; I am always proud to hear of young people in this country who are interested in civic affairs.  The potential her life possessed was snuffed out for no necessary reason, just the ravings and mental instability of a twenty two year old, disgruntled degenerate.  Christina's fathers' public responses in the media since Saturday's occurrence, have been measured and positive.  With the undeniable burden and grief, all of the families involved are experiencing, it is courageous and commendable of Christina's father to be so very composed and coherent in responding to the tragedy.  Let us continue to remember, pray for, and lift up Congresswoman Giffords and the nineteen victims.  Also let us seek to make this nation and every nation a less violent and hate driven sick society; and more of the caring, compassionate, and loving, country, where the Golden Rule, Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, and Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, are the alomosat unanimous response of the citizens of the United States, and every Believing populace anywhere in the World...........Christina Green You Will Be Greatly Missed; Everlasting Life Good Girl,   Fr.  Troy

A FULL DAY OF RECTORY WORK CLEARING MY DESK AND ORGANIZING THE PARISH ADMINISTRATION AND MINISTRY AS 2011 OFFICIALLY GETS UNDERWAY FOR THE PASTOR AND PEOPLE OF OLOL IN SACRAMENTO / DEL PASO HEIGHTS / RIO LINDA / ELVERTA / ROBLA / IN CALIFORNIA, USA...........

The first official Parish work day in regards to the Office, taking and returning telephone calls, addressing persons at the rectory door, clearing and organizing my desk, in priority order, opening and sorting the mail, and e-mails, have kept me busy since 8:40 am, after the 8 am Mass, and until 4 pm, with only a light breakfast and lunch; were my focus, including parish finances with the Bookeeper, paying bills, and an one hour twenty meeting minute starting at 2 pm with a researcher needing to interview me.  Esperanza is back after my week's hiatus, and oh, how I am looking forward to the dinner she is cooking, having gone without one for longer than a week and a half.  An uneventful and pondering night dcciding on the car insurance I will choose to insure my 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, is my current concern this evening.  I have not yet driven the car since bringing it home to OLOL, from Paul Blanco EZ Auto, at Noon, on December 31.  Ray Riehle will be joing me for dinner at 5:45 pm, which is a nice way to enjoy my first Esperanza made dinner and decompress after the first day back in the Parish Office saddle.  I am grateful to be proceeding in positive directions as I Pastor the People of God in Our Lady of Lourdes Parish into 2011, and the promise and potential we will all benefit from as the coming months unfold.  It may be Ordinary Time for the next fifty eight days, but it will be far from Ordinary here behind the scenes.  Preparing for the Ecumenical Christian Unity Week Service on Friday January 21, OLOL's will host; and The OLOL Parish Feast Day Celebration on Friday February 11, leading the way for 2011 Special Events in this Parish.  I hope this blog column is not too jumbled, with multiple topics.  These are simply the ministries and energies that have summoned me, on Monday January 10, 2011..........Fr.  Troy

A BRIEF RETURN TO ORDINARY TIME...........

For the next fifty eight days, we enter the Liturgical Season of Ordinary Time.  During these eight weeks and two days, we will sojourn with Jesus through the beginnings of His Public Ministry and some of the Miracles he performed.  In today's Gospel from Mark, we hear how Jesus set about after being Baptized by John in the Jordan River, and embracing a three year Public Ministry, to personally Call followers.  He first calls four fisherman, Simon, Andrew, James, and John.  The leave their nets and families behind, and immediately answer Jesus' Call and Follow Him.  We too, are each called personally, by Name, to answer the Call to Catholic-Christian Discipleship, and to Follow Jesus the Christ.  As you pack away the high seasons of Advent and Christmas, and live the ordinary, everyday, opportrunities of 2011, during these next weeks how will who you are, and what you do, reflect the Call of Jesus Christ ?...........Onward Ordinary Time !!!!!!!!!!!,   Fr.  Troy

ONE LAST TIME THIS YEAR - A FAREWELL HAPPY CHRISTMAS...........

As the curtain drops on the 16th and final day of the Christmas Season 2010 / 2011, I take this last opportunity until December 24 / 25, next - to wish you and your families, Happy Christmas.  May this Joyful, Peaceful, time of celebrating the Redemption of Humankind, and the Gift of our Salvation, in the Holy Birth of the Messiah and King; the Lord and Savior; Jesus The Christ; continue to shine as the Light of your Life, all year through.  All the Best to You and Yours, in this Year of Our Lord 2011 A.D.  Here's to your Prayer, Worship, and Ministry, during this year, and your Faith filled and Loyal presence and participation in Word and Eucharist, at Sunday and Holyday Masses...........Peace And Prayers As We Share In The Pastoral  Service of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Sacramento / Del Paso Heights / Rio Linda / Elverta / Robla /  California, USA,   Fr.  Troy David Powers  Pastor

THE SENSELESS SHOOTING OF TWENTY PERSONS IN ARIZONA ON SATURDAY...........

Saturday started as a normal and usual day in Tucson, Arizona, until a deranged twenty something gun man, opened fire in a Safeway grocery store parking lot where the local Congresswoman  Gabrielle Giffords, a conservative Democrat, was meeting and greeting some of her constituents.  Shooting Representative Giffords through the head at point blank range, the bullet pierced her brain and came out through her forehead.  She remains in critical condition.  Then, the gun man sprayed the crowd, killing six more persons, and wounding a total of fourteen people.  This was a senseless, unnecessary, attack on these twenty innocent and peaceful citizens.  What begins to explain such a tragedy ?  A quirky, insecure, degenerate, person, or are there further circumstances that contribute to such an occurrence ?  During the past year, Congresswoman Giffords and her District, was one of several throughout the country that had a rifle scope placed over them, by Sarah Palin's website and her Tea Party devotees.  The United States of America is a nation of freedom and liberty for all our citizens, but that does not condone or allow for violence by the choice of individuals or groups.  The hallmarks of our U.S. Constitution, and the Bill twof Rights, assure us, Freedom of Speech; Freedom of Assembly; the Right to Bear Arms; do not sanction, or justify, such attitudes and actions, as were carried out in Tucson yesterday.  Mrs. Palin and her ilk, can make all the statements of sympathy, solidarity, and about face, today and into the future they want; their ill considered political rhetoric during the past year in regards to what led to this senseless act, is as much to blame for what occurred - leaving even an energized and idealistic, 9 year old girl among the dead, as is the perpetrator who fired the gun.  If this is any indication of the leadership and public service Sarah Palin and her Tea Party allies will bring about, she and they are not qualified to hold any office, and particularly not the Highest Office in the Land, and the most Powerful Governing Position, in the World.  Peace, Justice, Liberty, and Freedom, that are grounded in the True and Constructive American Values we have fought to attain and perserve, for the past two hundred and a third years, must be maintained; and the self centered, self seeking, untoward, agendas of individuals and groups, that incite or execute violence and mayhem, must be called out and opposed for what they are : conveyors of UnAmericanism, instead of all we stand for, the undeniable American Spirit.  As Catholic Christians, we cannot condone, or allow, such violence to be advanced by anyone.  Nwely elected U.S. Senator Joe Manchin, Democrat of West Virginia, who as Governor was the replacement candidate for the late Senator Robert Byrd, also contributed to craziness during the Fall campaign, when he fired a high powered rifle at a copy of the Health Reform Bill, in a television commercial...........Praying For The Victims, Families, And Community, Caught Up In This Wanton Tragedy,   Fr.  Troy

ON THIS 16TH AND LAST DAY OF THE CHRISTMAS SEASON FOR 2011, WE FOCUS AS CATHOLIC-CHRISTIANS ON THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD...........

Our two weeks, two days, and eight hours, of Christmas Celebratiion honoring the Nativity of the Christ Child in Bethlehem of Judea, in Israel, over two thousand years ago, comes to a conclusion on this Sunday January 9, 2011, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.  We remember on this final day of commemorating the Holy Birth of God's Co-Eternal and Redeeming Son, into the World as Lord and Savior, of All Believers, the Mission and Ministry it led Him to embrace.  Jesus on the Last Day of Christmas is presented as an adult, 30 years old, who approaches His heralding cousin, John the Baptist, asking to be baptized by John.  Although Christ is the Sinless Man and the Perfect Expiation for the Forgiveness of Sins, He insisted on receiving Baptism to exemplify the power of Baptism in our lives.  The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is also the day we liturgical zero in on the beginning of Jesus' three year Public Ministry, as He called Apostles and grew  a band of followers, who would become His first Disciples, the seeds of the Church He founded.  Thirdly, this closing Feast of the Christmas Season leads to the unfolding of the Miracles and Signs Jesus performed during His Public Ministry, initiated by his changing Water into Wine, at the Wedding Feast in Cana, of Galilee.  Today, is also an excellent day to recall our own Baptisms.  Most, if not all Catholic-Christians, know and in ways small and large - celebrate our Birthdays.  But how many of us remember or celebrate the second most important date in our lives, our Baptismal Day ?  If our Salvation is the central reality of who we are called and redeemed to be, then commemorating the day we were baptized and became  Disciples of Jesus the Christ, is equally, if not greater, a day to celebrate as our birthdays.  If it has not been your family custom to celebrate baptismal or saints feast days, which are a vital part of your history, - then decide to do so, by researching your family files, Baptismal Certificates,  or looking for the information in your Family Bible.  Contacting your Church of Baptism, is another way you can arrive at the information regarding your Baptism.  I was baptized at St. Rose's Church, in South Sacramento on May 18, 1957.  From then until 2002, I received six of the seven Sacraments of the Church in the month of May, as my First Penance, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and Anointing of the Sick, have all taken place on different dates, during the month of May.  As you and your families and all our fellow believers enter and mark today's Feast and this Last Day of Christmas for this year, may the spirit of Messiah, whose Coming enlightens and transforms our lives, remain with you as you proceed into the totality of 2011 A.D., as we seek to serve God's Greater Glory and the Common Good of All...........Fr.  Troy

THE 15TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS BRINGS THE JANUARY BAPTISMAL INSTRUCTIONS CLASS...........

It is the 15th of our 16 days of Christmas for 2010 / 2011.  The second Saturday of our New Year, it is a day that takes on a Baptismal focus here at OLOL Parish, as the January Instructions Class for the Parents and Godparents of the infants and children six and under, who will be baptized at the 830 am Mass next Sunday January 16, has been held.  Then at tonight's 5 pm Vigil Mass, and tomorrow's 8:30 am and 10:30 am Sunday Masses, the Baptismal Font will be positioned at the foot of the church sanctuary before the Altar of Sacrifice and the Christmas Creche, as the central sign of the Feast ofd the Bapotism of the Lord, the last day of the Christmas Season.  All who are preesent at these three Masses will be asked to participate in a special procession to the Baptismal Font, to affirm their own Baptismal promises and commitment.  The rest of this day in parish life is preparatory in nature, readying the Prayers of the Faithful and the Pulpit Announcements, as well as finalizing my Sunday Homily.  May the penultimate day of this CHristmas Season be for you and yours, one connected to the spirit of the Holy Birth that is the Reason for the Season we are celebrating - Jesus, the Christ, Messiah, Savior, and Redeemer of Humankind...........Fr.  Troy

AFTER 5 DAYS OFF FROM OLOL REVEREND FATHER's RETURN FROM DALLAS IS A MOST REVEREND FLIGHT..........

An early and active morning it was at our Colleyville, Texas hotel, breakfasting, packing, taxing, to the DFW Airport, only to get on the American Airlines plane, and as I began going down the aisle, to hear a  familiar voice greet me, "Hello Troy".  I looked down at the seat of the person who called out and who was it, but - Bishop Jaime Soto !!!!!!!!!!!  I stopped and greeted him, and having heard me paged in the terminal he said, "I wondered if there could be another Troy Powers in Texas" !!!   Small world.  Kim Welch's sister Kelly, who lives in Rocklin, told me last night she and her six year old daughter, were on the same flight with me to Dallas on Wednesday.  Curtis Richards and I, had a great reunion visit last night with Addie Marie Forchette, who we met five and a half years ago, on our Joe, Curtis, Troy, joint visit to the Welches, and when she and her family were still their next door neighbors.  The Forchette Family now live in Walnut Creek, California, where her husband's business promoted and transferred him to, three and a half years ago.  I returned to OLOL at 2:45 pm this afternoon and celebrated the 7 pm First Friday Mass and Benediction, following our 6 pm Holy Hour.  I called Joe Gibson earlier and shared with him how Brian's Funeral Memorial Service was, as I know he was disappointed that his professional responsibilities kept him from being there with us.  Joe is the primary organizer / coordinator, of Brian's Spring Memorial Service in Lincoln.  An intensive, impactful, impressive, two days it has been - mourning the passing, but more importantly celebratring the life, of this brave, strong, courageous, valiant, and ever so ordered and organized man, husband, father, brother, pilot, friend, fraternity brother, colleague, loved one...........Eternal Rest God Grant Unto You Brian Charles Welch - And May Perpetual Light Shine Upon You Forever,  In ZAX,   Troy   Phi Pi 2...........  

BRIAN CHARLES WELCH - 1960 - 2010.....CELEBRATING HIS LIFE AS WE MOURN HIS DEATH...........

The Funeral Memorial Service at the Bluebonnet Hills Chapel in Colleyville, Texas, was a fitting tribute to a truly good man,  BRIAN CHARLES WELCH.  An overflow crowd of more than 300 persons filled the Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park Funeral Chapel, for a nearly two hour Celebration of Life Service, that truly remembered and affirmed the fullness of this outstanding man's life.  The local Unitarian Pastor, the Reverend Dennis Hamilton, presided over the Service and delivered a eulogy describing Brian's life journey.  A well organized photographic slide show was presented as was an instrumental interlude, and then four of Brian's long time friends and flying colleagues spoke for upwards of ten to fifteen minutes each; about their experiences with Brian - flying, jogging, sharing in his family life with Kim, Nicola, and Dylan, serving with him in the United States Air Force in England, and in the 1991 Gulf War, even playing chess with him before and during the nearly ten years he valiantly struggled with ALS - Lou Gehrig's Disease.  Then the time came for me to be the final speaker, in which I spoke of our Associated Students Incorporated experiences, our Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity experiences, and told the "Voice of God" story; a designation of Brian's deep and commanding voice, given to him at age 19, when he, Joe Gibson, and I, appeared on KXTV Channel 10 in Sacramento's, "A New Morning" program with host Jean LaMotte.  Jean was so taken with the depth of Brian's voice, she declared him to be, "The Voice of God".  Following the Funeral Memorial Service, Brian's wife and children invited a sizable group of those present to their home for a Dinner of Brian's favorite meal.  The meal Kim cooked for him the first time, when they were dating more than a quarter of a century ago : Lasagne, Salad, Red Wine, and Chocolate Cake.  It was the dinner meal she continued to prepare for him on his birthday and special occasions since that first time.  Curtis and I returned to our hotel at 8:30 pm, and I am chillaxing before a restful night's sleep, with a 12:25 pm flight back to Sacramento tomorrow.  Part One of Brian Welch's Memorial Services are done, my Christmas Days conclude in about sixteen hours, and a new year of priestly and pastoral ministry awaits me back at OLOL...........Celebrating Christmas Texas Style,   Fr.  Troy 

.....The Marriott's Town Place Suites we are staying at in Colleyville, still have their Christmas Tree standing in the foyer entrance of the hotel, glowing with a rainbow of Christmas Lights !!!  YEAH !!!.....

MEMORIAL SERVICE TRAVELING DAY ON THIS 12TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS..........

9:51 am -  Awakening at an early 6:30 am on my third Christmas to keep a medical appointment at Sutter Roseville Hospital before heading to Sacramento International Airport and my flight to Dallas, for Brian Welch's Funeral / Memorial Service tomorrow, it is a full and fast morning of movement......12:10 pm  Waiting to board the flight to Dallas / Fort Worth Airport, which will be a 2 hour 55 minute flight.  I should arrive there at 5:40 pm, about an hour and ten minutes after Curtis Richards, who is flying from Wahington, D.C. .....7:49 pm - Curtis was one gate from my arrival gate at a bar called 'Blue Mesa', where we had light refreshments before proceeding to our hotel.  It will be a quiet, chillaxing night, as we prepare for Brian's Service tomorrow afternoon.  Our ride to the hotel was interesting as the taxi driver, Alor, a soutthern Sudanese man, discussed the problems in his country with us.  He has been in Dallas since 2000, and is excited about the referendum Sudan is voting on this Sunday, about dividing the country into North and South Sudan.  Northern Sudan is predominately Islamic; while Southern Sudan is very Christian.  Alor himself is Catholic.  He also thinks highly of actor George Clooney and his efforts on behalf of Sudan.  He has met him and proudly took a photograph with him.  More from Dallas, (actually Colleyville, where the Weches live) tomorrow after the Funeral / Memorial Service / Dinner /.  Peace + Prayers,   Fr.  Troy

ANOTHER QUIET AND REST FILLED DAY...........

As the second Tuesday of this Christmas Season winds down, and more than two days of my Christmas days off are spent, I think to flying tomorrow to Dallas / Fort Worth, American Airlines major national hub, for the Funeral Memorial Service for my Sacramento State University fellow student, Student Senator, ASI Board Chairman, and Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Brother, Captain Brian Charles Welch.  I intentionally kept today quiet and restful, knowing the next two days will be tough, even after nearly a decade of preparation, to say goodbye to a dear friend and good man, at only 50 years old.  I will speak near the conclusion of the Service, after the other chosen speakers.  After five and a half years of contemplating it, I pray my words will be sufficient to remembering and celebrating Brian and strengthening and sustaining his wife Kim, children Nicola, and Dylan, and all his loved ones.  More tomorrow night after I have arrived in their hometown of Colleyville, and joined Curtis Richards, who is flying there tomorrow, from Washington, D.C. ...........Christmas-New Year's Peace And Prayers,   Fr.  Troy

2011 RESOLUTIONS...........

New Year Resolutions have been my thing.  How many people make them and a lmost certainly break them by them by the end of this week, or almost without fail, by the end of the month.  In themselves, New Year Resolutions are a good, positivem and constructive, practice.  But that human is so prevalent means that most of them never bear full fruition.  Good intentions or a surge of action to change things for the better, are not enough to sustain them.  A few resolutions all of us who are Believers in the Living and True God, and Jesus the Christ, the Messiah of God's People and the Sender of the Holy Spirit, are to seek Justice and Peace in the World, in our daily dealings with others; and the promotion of Harmony, Unity, Reconciliation, and Renewal, between ourselves and others, especially tghose from whom we are estranged.  These are New Year Resolutions that are more than a guilty conscience whim, but rather the fulfillment of the Catholic-Christian Discipleship we profess to practice not just at Christmas, but everyday of 2011...........Fr.  Troy

THE 4TH DAY OF 2011; THE 11TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS; THE MENORIAL OF MOTHER ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON...........

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, is the name of the parochial school shared by the Catholic parishes of Good Shepherd and St. Joseph, in Elk Grove, California - in the Diocese of Sacramento.  Elizabeth Ann Seton was an 18th Century American woman, who was both a wife and mother, and a practicing Episcopalian.  Widowed and left with several children to raise, at a young age; she not only successfully brought her children to adulthood, but went on to a further vocation.  Aconvert to Catholicism, she founded a Religious Order of Women, the Daughters of Charity. Devoting her life to God and to others as a Teacher, she and her fellow Sisters educated the young.  Her ministry was so exemplary and selfless, that in 1975, she was one of the first two, American born persons of Faith to become canonized saints.  Her feast day is today, January 4th.  A wife, mother, convert, foundress, religious sister, teacher, and saint, - Elizabeth Ann Seton is a pioneer and promoter of American Catholic-Christianity, we can be proud of.  May her 2011 Feast Day move you to be more self giving, more loyally witnessing, to your own Discipleship of Jesus The Christ...........Happy 11th Day Of Christmas,   Fr.  Troy

STRIKING A BALANCE AS CHRISTIAN DISCIPLES AND SOCIETAL CITIZENS...........

The open secret of our living a well rounded and fulfilling life, as human beings and Catholic Christians, is learning to strike a healthy and necessary balance between the sacred and the secular, in our daily lives.  Today, the first Monday of the new civil and calendar year, is an excellent example of my point.  For us as Believers in the Light of Savation, Jesus The Christ, today has been Day 10, of the 16.3 Days of Christmas 2010 / 2011.  So we should have been trying to live the day in that context, to the best of our ability, as our spiritual opportunity.  But as Citizens of this Society,we may also have secular, personal and professional jobs to do, especially as the first work week of the New calendar Year of 2011, gets underway that requires our attention and efforts.  Thus, we must find the means to strike just the right combination of Work in the wider World, with our Faith in God and the Community of Believers.  It is not an either / or, proposition - but a blended awareness that we are wholistic persons, with the need to function fully on all levels both temporally and spiritually.  So as you resume a normal schedule of work, family duties, and religious observance, how will youprioritize them,so as to make ample time to carry them out without sacrificing one to inordinately serve the other, and to achieve the fulfillment our hearts and minds need to be centered and restful people ?...........Fr.  Troy

THE MOST HOLY NAME OF JESUS ON THE TENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS...........

Having enjoyed a relaxed breakfast,with freedom to rest as the day progresses, I am in full chillax mode for the duration.  Governor Brown's Inauguraton is less than 2 hours away.  I am locked away, with my television, telephone, and laptop, not to be disturbed until the live coverage is complete.  On the third day of the New Year, as the work a day world summons us to put the holiday season away and return to the ordinary time of the daily grind.  However, today is the 10th Day of Christmas, the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus.  Therefore, as Disciples of Jesus The Christ, Redeemer of Humankind and Savior of the World, we honor and glorify The Most Holy Name of Jesus today, even as we return to work, school, and everyday, workaday, activities - by maintaining the spirit of Christmas in our attitudes and actions towards and with others.  Lift up your hearts, and think positive thoughts, as you carry out whatever responsibilities you discharge today.  And remember, just as "Jesus is the Reason for the Christmas Season", so too, can and does he shape the direction and effectiveness, of everyday of the year - if only we let Him into our experiences...........Most Holy Name Of Jesus Be Forever Praised,   Fr.  Troy

THE 10TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS AND 3RD DAY OF 2011 GIVES US THE INAUGURATION OF CALIFORNIA's 39TH GOVERNOR...........

In about eleven hours, in downtown Sacramento's Memorial Auditorium, at 16th & J Strrets, the 39th Governor of California, Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown, will be inaugurated.  The depth of the economic crisis, beginning with the California State Budget Deficit, means their will be no political honeymoon, only a governing marathon, of hard, difficult, and unpopular, choices to be taken and implemented.  Convincing and garnering highly reluctant,  painful, but required, acceptance from Californians of all partisan persuasions of deeper budget cuts, and austerity, along with significant tax increases and realigning how and what we prioritize for funding and spending.  Inaugurations, are a day to celebrate confidence in our ability to effectively address the major issues and find solutions to stabilize and lead us forward and out of this cavernous fiscal abyss.  Patience, Perseverance, Sacrifice, Compromise, are concepts the 37.3 million citizens of California must embrace...........Fr.  Troy

ENSCONSCED FOR A FEW BREAKAWAY, HIDEAWAY, CHRISTMAS DAYS OFF...........

With my 2005 Malibu not yet insured, and having returned the rental car I was recently driving, my primary transportation until midday Friday, other than American Airlines planes I will fly to and from Dallas, are taxi's. I arrived in Roseville at 4:30 pm, and didn't fall into the winter's nap, I thought would happen. The 1983 Eddie Murphy / Dan Akroyd / Don Ameche / Ralph Bellamy / Jamie Lee Curtis / Denholm Elliott / comedy, "Trading Places", one of my favs, was starting as I settled in.  Having a few chicken wings, chips, and a diet coke and diet sprite, with the movie; for a later dinner, I ordered in Chinese food - Chicken Chow Mein, BBQ Pork Egg FooYung, Egg Rolls, with coffee and ice water.  Channel  6, has an Ed Sulivan,' Rock n'Roll Classics', special on in prime time.   It is great look back at music, and artists, revisited.  Bring on quietude and chillaxing, for the next two and a half days, before being Dallas bound Wednesday afternoon............Happy Christmas-Epiphany Night,   Fr.  Troy

BATTENING DOWN THE HATCHES FOR A 120 HOURS RESPITE...........

Attempting to batten down the hatches before departing the parish for a few earned days off, is not as simple as it may sound.  In addition to doing what a conscientious priest and pastor does to leave things in functioning order, even for as little as 5 days, the moment others learn of Father's pending short agenda, they come out of the woodwork with further requests.  In just the past half hour I have three such inquiries at the front door of the rectory, about things I cannot assist them with today.  All while trying to heat and eat my lunch, pack my clothes and belongings, extra given my two day journey to Dallas for Brian Welch's funeral memorial service, and preparing in less than ninety minutes to write and finish the Sunday January 9th Bulletin.  Arriving at my Christmas days off location in Roseville within the 3 o'clock hour, I will simply collapse into bed for a long, leisurely, NAP !!!!!!!!!!!  Luckily, lunch was easy to prepare, as the last of Thursday night's leftovers were awaiting me.  All this in addition to the 2 Christmas-Epiphany Sunday Masses, after which I usually deflate for a few hours.....207 persons were present at the 10:30 am Mass here at OLOL today, for a total of 323 parishioners at the 2 Masses; 115 more people than last Sunday.  A nice recovery, and very good start to the first Sunday of the Year of Our Lord 2011.  The wet and rainy day it is, for the sixth Sunday since October, makes it a great day to be indoors.  So its time to write bulletin copy for next week and get ready to make my 120 hour exit to rest, relax, re-group, and recreate, enough for the pastoral ministry and administration awaiting me upon return...........May The Light Of The Nations, Jesus Christ, Lord, Savior, Reddemer, Messiah, Illuminate Your Christmas-Epiphany Experiences On The 9th Day Of Christmas,   Fr.  Troy

THE 9TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS TODAY - IS THE SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY : JESUS CHRIST THE LIGHT TO THE NATIONS...........

7:35 am - On this 9th Day of Christmas, the Solemnity of the Epiphany, when the Christ Child was maanifested to the Gentiles, as the, "Light of the Nations", illuminating and redeeming the World, as well as Israel, Mass attendance will hopefully be up again, over last Sunday, New Year's Eve and Day.....9:59 am - 116 persons were present at the 8:30 am Mass, thirty two more than at both New Year's Masses, and there should be more present at the 10:30 am Mass, for a restoration in attendance not solely affected by the holiday weekend.  That over a hundred people, including a dozen or so, children were present for the first Mass this morning, with it raining appreciably is laudable and encouraging.  2011 Parish Calendars and Offertory Envelopes, seem to be flowing out steadily.  About half of the weekly envelopes box sets are gone, which indicates many parishioners do know their envelope number.  I have been announcing that should they not know, or are unsure of their envelopes box number to contact the Parish Office during the week, before taking them.  Next Sunday's Bulletin copy for submission to JS Paluch this Tuesday looms to be completed before I depart on my Christmas days off, this afternoon.  I will be staying locally in Roseville, before flying to Dallas on Wednesday morning for Brian Welch's Texas Memorial Service on Thursday..........More Later On This Christmas-Epiphany Day,   Fr.  Troy

DAY ONE OF OUR NEW YEAR; THE EIGHTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS; DAY OF PROMISE, DAY OF HOPE...........

The human spirit has an inherent desire to hope, to look fforward to the future with optimism and confidence, thus the beginning of the New Civil and Calendar Year is for most people, an occasion to exercise a celebratory and hopeful disposition that the coming year will be a good and better experience for us, our loved ones, and others.  Just as keeping the prescriptions of the Jewish Law, eight days following His Holy Birth, Mary and Joseph were loyal in taking the Infant Christ Child to the Temple for Circumcision and to being given His Name Jesus, meaning, 'God Saves Us From Sin'; so too do the World's citizens mark this 1st Day of the Year of Our Lord, 2011 A.D., with festivities of Faith, Family, Fellowship, be it by attending Church to break the bread of God's Word and the Eucharist, albeit, in lower numbers than on almost any significant feast of the year - or in the parades, football games, foods and drinks, - and yes, even shopping they do.  After presiding at our 37 parishioners present 10:30 am Mass and going to breakfast with Father Tony, I kept the day quietly resting, relaxing, re-grouping for Sunday's 2 Masses and the Solemnity of the Epiphany Christmas homily; and watched TCM day's offering, a series of movie newsreels from the 1930's and 1940's, which fed my historical spirit going into another year of life.  Then they featured yesterday classic films starring the legendary actor of the silver and small screen, Walter Brennan.  A number of the movies (and they made 5 films together) were with his fellow actor and friend of the era,  Gary Cooper.  They included, "My Darling Clementine"; "The Pride Of The Yankees"; and "Sargeant York".  My favorite New Year's Day dinner of Baked Ham, was surprisingly made possible by a parishioner, who came into the sacristry before Mass this morning with two plates : one for me, one for Fr. Traynor, saying they were a perishable New Year's treat.  Upon opening it up at the lunch hour I found it was a plate of baked ham, which I enjoyed immensely during the afternoon and evening.  Here's hoping your day was a happy and invigorating day of hope for the 365 days just before us.  Happy New Year To You In The Promise And Hope That Is 2011...........Fr.  Troy

JANUARY 1, 2011...........CIRCUMCISION OF THE LORD; MARY, MOTHER OF GOD; WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR PEACE; OCTAVE DAY OF CHHRISTMAS; NEW YEAR'S DAY; - NEED ANOTHER REASON TO CELEBRATE ???????????...........

9:30 am -  Happy New Year to all my blog readers.  I appreciate that as of today,  6,180 page views, 5,086 in the United States and 1,094 internationally haver occurred since April 19, 2009, the day I launched, "Insights Into Life And Faith By Father Troy David Powers".  With a late night ushering in 2011 A.D., the good news for me and the parishioners of OLOL this morning is that our New Year's Day Mass, is in an hour - at 10:30 am.  We will be celebrating the Solemnity of the 8th Day of Christmas,  Mary Mother of God, with overtones of the Circumcision of the Lord, World Dy of Prayer For Peace, and New Year's Day.  I am watching the 122nd Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, in which my late friend Brian Welch's daughter, Nicola, a 20 year old sophomore at Texas Christian University, is marching today.  She and the TCU Band, are also performing at today's Rose Bowl Football Classic............1:00 pm - 37 parishioners were present at the 10:30 am Mass; compared to 47 persons at 5 pm last night.  So a grand total of 84 parishioners makes this the lowest Sunday or Holyday Mass attendance in my first six months as Pastor of OLOL.  Father Traynor and I kicked 2011 off afterwards, by going to IHOP for breakfast, at his kind and generous hosting.  I returned to the rectory to the concluding minutes of the Rose Bowl Parade and now await the start of the Rose Bowl Football Game.....Go, Nicola !!!!!!!!!!!  My chillaxing New Year's Day afternnon I will spend between watching the Rose Bowl, and Turner Classic Movies, TCM............Onward 1st Day of 2011,   Fr.  Troy

HAPPY 2011 !!!!!!!!!!!...........THE OCTAVE DAY OF CHRISTMAS HAS MULTIPLE DESIGNATIONS FOR US WHO ARE CATHOLIC-CHRISTIANS...........

2011 Is Here !!!!!!!!!!!  Fifteen minutes ago we ushered it in with Fanfare and Fireworks.  New York City's Times Square New Year's Eve tradition began in 1904, when 200, 000 attended.  Tonight, 1 million persons are gathered in Times Square New York, and 1 billion people Worldwide, are viewing the 39th annual Dick Clark's Rock'in Eve '11, With Ryan Seacrest, on ABC-TV.   Kudos to the now 81 year old, seven years post stroke sufferer, the venerable American music and entertainment icon, Mr. Dick Clark's continuing perseverance to appear annually on this New Year's broadcast.  He has firmly established himself as, "Mr. New Year's Eve in America"...........New Year's Day on the Catholic-Christian liturgical calebdar, historically has multiple designations of celebration.  The Circumcision of the Lord, denoting the Jewish Tradition of boys being circumcised and named on the eighth day after birth; thus the Christ Child is brought to the Temple by Mary and Joseph, and named Jesus, meaning He Saves Us from Sin.  Since the 4th Century A.D., and the Council of Ephesus, when Mary was defined as, The Mother of God, "Theokotos", in Greek - we have celebrated this 1st Day of the New Year and 8th Day of Christmas, as the Solemnity of the Motherhood of Mary, as the vessel chosen, who cooperated with God in being the Christbearer of God the Son, Redeemer of Humankind.  In 1968, His Holiness Pope Paul VI, declared January 1, "World Day Of Prayer For Peace", so today, for the 44th consecutive year, we especially pray for God's Peace everywhere, that eradicates War and establishes Justice and Harmony, on the Earth.  All of these themes and aspirations are a vital part of our New Year's Day 2011.  So if you need reason to truly celebrate the New Year's Day, you will find in the meaning of these feasts and purposes, every reason to keep this day in a God centered way...........Happy 2011, Everyone,   Fr.  Troy