AFTER THE FRENZY OF BLACK FRIDAY, SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY, CYBER MONDAY, THE NCPD ASKS FOR YOUR HELP ON, "GIVING TUESDAY".............

Holiday Shopping-itis having commandeered the attentions and energies of tens of millions from prematurely arriving Black Friday sales that greedily cut into the actual proper observance of ThanksGiving Day; the crush of sales and shoppers hopefully helping the mom and pop style independent merchants today on Small Business Saturday; and the online crunch of purchases to be made two days from now on Cyber Monday; all of this is a prelude to a national American fundraising event in the coming week that is at the heart of the message and charitable sharing of Christmas and the Holiday Season.  It is titled, "Giving Tuesday", on December 3.  "Giving Tuesday", is a project of the National Catholic Partnership for Disability", which is trying to raise $20,000.00. between now and on or before December 3rd.  Please join me in making a monetary contribution to the NCPD'S "Giving Tuesday".  Your gift of $10.00 or more  will help them further assist the 14 million Catholics in the United States with Disabilities more wholistically participate and take their rightful place in the Church.  Go to thre website : www.ncpd.org and follow the directions for sending your donation.  Amidst all the frenzied Consumerism from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, what better way to authenticate the true purposes of the Advent / Christmas / Holiday Seasons, then by remembering the Disabled Americans of Catholic-Christian Faith on this GIVING TUESDAY DECEMBER 3 ?  If you are in my circle of friends and planning to give me a Christ present, please make it a donation yo the National Catholic Partnership for Disability, NCPD.org .............Thank You In Jesus The Christ For Giving,  Reverend Father Troy David Powers

PRAYERS FOR A YOUNG BOY WITH A DISABLED LEFT LEG LIKE ME.............

On Priesthood Sunday USA October 27, after concelebrating the 9:30 a.m. Mass, I was in the sacristry of Sacred Heart Church awaiting the start of the 11 a.m. Mass, when a young boy with a slight speech defect walked in and asked me how my prosthetic leg felt.  He eagerly wanted to know about it and soon volunteered he his left leg is turned outward, just as mine has been from birth.  He told me that he was having a surgery on his leg.  When I asked him how soon his mother told me over the ThanksGiving break.  When I said my left leg is like his is turned outward, he wanted to know if I had my leg operated on.  I said no I  didn't and told him at his age the surgery he is having this weekend, will likely make his leg straight.  I am thinking and praying for him and his family this week and ask you to remember him in your prayers too.  It was an encounter I will cherish always.  As he and his mother left the sacristy last month, I watched as  he animatedly told his mother about seeing and talking to me.  All because of the witness value of my being there in a wheelchair and the ability in him to identify and relate to me as a disabled priest.  Whereas some persons now perceive me as a tarnished commodity and a burden,  among them at least a few colleagues and superiors; the disabled and a resounding number of enlightened and inclusive persons, welcome and affirm my continuing priestly ministry from the accommodation of a wheelchair.  Ihope to see, encorage, affirm, witness, and minister, to that disabled boy and many more of the People of God, the Lord called me and the Diocese of Sacramento ordained me to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ to carry out.  For as the Pastoral Statement of the U.S. Bishops on Persons With Disabilities 1978; and the National Catholic Partnership for Disability founded from it in 1982 proclaim, "There Is No Separate Church For the Disabled".............Fr.  Troy David

THANKSGIVING DAY USA 2013.............

ThanksGiving Day USA 2013 is here as we gather with our families, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and fellow believers, in gratefully celebrating our Oneness in the Lord Our God and the Blessings of Life and Faith.  Having concelebrated the 9:30 a.m. ThanksGiving Day Mass in Sacred Heart Church, I will journey to Elk Grove to have a Blessed Dinner, withh my extended Family, the Geaches.  May all of you and your families in America and Around the World, be blessed with grateful thanks for paths of life, love, faith, and friendship, God extends to you in Fidelity and Fellowship as People of God.  Eat, Drink, Makr Merry,  and Rejoice, for This is the Day the ;Lord calls us Consecrate our Nation, to God's Greater Glory; the Common Good; and the Righteousness of the Truth and Justice for persons everywhere in God's Creation.  HAPPY THANKSGIVING !!!!!!!!!!!!!.............Father Troy David Powers

A REMARKABLE PRIESTS DAY ALUMNI REUNION @ ST. PATRICK'S SEMINARY..........................

My seven hour return back to St. Patrick's Seminary and University, in Menlo Park California; was a truly remarkable reunion at the 2013 Priests Day Alumni celebration.  Sharing the adternoon and evening with my beloved classmates, Auxiliary Bishop of San Jose Thomas A. Daly; currently the Interim President of St. Patrick's Seminary, as well as Father Daniel B. Donohoo;who is now serving on the Seminary Faculty in Menlo Park, as a Spiritual Director and the Director of the Pastoral Year seminarians.  Fr. Dan, Bishop Tom, and I, were last together at Dan's Ordination to the Priesthood in Indianapolis, Indiana; his native diocese on June 7, 1986.  Having stayed in contact over the past twenty seven and a half years, it was a truly wonderful reuniting face to face with him - a man and priest I greatly admire and respect as a friend, colleague, and brother, in Jesus The Christ.  I will be blogging more about the reunion and the affirmation of priestly ministry it was for me and those present.............Fr.  Troy David Powers

NEWTOWN MASSACRE FINDINGS REPORT.............

Less than three weeks before the Newtown, Massachusetts elementary school Mass Killing that  wantonly cost 20 first graders and 6 of their teachers their lives at the hands of a young man wielding and using high powered, multi round weapons, the Final Report has been issued delaring the gunman was a detached, deranged, dilettante, who only communicated with his mother, whom he also shot dead in her bed, the morning of the December 14, 2012 massacre of innocents.  Yet this man and far too many like him have unregulated access to guns under the erroneous banner of their right under the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.  Until the three branches honestly and forthrightly address the truth their is no Right to Murder or Kill. out of selfishness, evil. or mental illness; sadly more and then more persons livees will be wiped out for what, false freedom ?.............Fr.  Troy David

DWTS SEASON 17 FINALS THREE WHO BELONG THERE AND A QUESTIONABLE FOURTH.............

Amber. Corbin. Jack. Not Bill.  The first round of the Finals of Season 17 of "Dancing With The Stars", produced both a very entertaining show and the right outcome.  The least talented, overstaying, emotional fan favorite, who had remained weeks longer than he deserved and was eliminated; the three best dancers after ten weeks of intensive rehearsals and highly improved performances - one a stocky female "Glee" star; another known from the Disney  hit, 'High School Musical';  and the third, the Muscular Dystrophy contending son of an infamous hard rock superstar; will compere in one final dance each Tuesday night, before the judges panel and the television audience fans determine who wins the Disco Ball Trophy #17.  Any one of these three finalists can win if tonight is an indicator.  Tune in tonight or check tomorrow to learn if it will be Champion Jack; Champion Corbin; or Champion Amber. ???.............fr.tdp

CAPITOL CORRIDOR TO SEMINARY CITY.............

I have arrived in Menlo Park, California within the hour, after taking the AmTrak Capitol Corridor Train from the Sacramento Station to the San Jose Terminal and then a t, for which I axi to the seminary city that was my home from 1984-1986. Menlo Park.  St . Patrick's Seminary is located here and will holding Alumni Day tomorrow which I traveled down.  A smooth and uncomplicated train trip it was requiring only minimal assistance of a wheelchair lift to get on and off the train; and a golf cart ride to get from and to the station / track.  My local taxi driver was very good and punctual, and the hotel receptionist, manager, and maintainence man, all very personable, proficient, and welcoming.  I eagerly anticipate tomorrow's gathering and will enjoy these two independent and enjoyable out and about in the Bay Area before returning to Sacramento to celebrate ThanksGiving Day with my familt and friends, then resuming my search on Friday, for an accessible apartment in the general community.............fr.tdp

THE ASSASSINATION OF PRESIDENT KENNEDY SUNDAY AND MONDAY 1963.............

On this 50th Anniversary Sunday of the killing of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, slain at age 46, as he rode with the First Lady, Governor Connally, and his wife in an open topped limousine in a motorcade through downtown Dallas, watching the livestream internet coverage of the real time  events on Day 3, a half century ago brings back my memories then as a seven year old boy.  The shooting that Sunday morning of the suspected perpetrator of the President's Assassination as he was being transferred from the city to county jail. is burnt in my memory as will tens of millions of Americans my family watched it happen live.  The sudden appearance of Jack Ruby to within a foot of Lee Harvey Oswald surrounded by Dallas Police, and firing a gunshot point blank into his abdomen, which tore through multiple vital organs, was shocking and surreal to watch.  That day, like with the entirety of those four days of which this was the third; watching the casket of President Kennedy exit the White House and be drawn by caisson to thee Rotunda of the U.S.Capitol, the ceremonies and eulogies, and the endless throng of persons who filed passed, not for the scheduled 6-8 hours, but over 20 hours are seered in our memories of a man and a time America and the World continues to remember and revere.............Fr.  Troy David

DISABILITY MILESTONES 3.............

The continuing chronicle of the Milestones in Disability Ministry I share with you today as provided by CUSA - an Apostolate of Persons wit Chronic Illness or Disability, are the following :

1969 - Cardinal Stritch College (now University) offers a Masters Degree in Special Religious Education, and educates many of the future leaders of Disability Ministry; 'Journey With Jesus curriculum developed by Sister Sheila Haskett and Sister Coletta Dunn, becomes national teaching tool.
1970's - Catholic Charities offices set up Group Homes in response to DeInstitutionalization.
1971 - National Catholic Office For the Deaf , NCOD; founded and directed by Father David Walsh, CSsR.
1974 - Hanicapped Encounter Christ (HEC) retreat program established by John Keck.
1975 - The U.S. Bishops National Advisory Council on Ministry wit Hanicapped People established; includes pastoral leaders from throughout the United States.
1978 - Pastoral Statement of the U.S. Bishops on Handicapped People approved
by the U.S. Bishops ("Handicapped People ", was later changed to, "Persons with Disabilities".
1979 - Faith and Fellowship organization founded to provide Faith Experiences in a way  suited to the needs of Persons with Mental Illness.

The Catholic Faith Tradition progresses in our appreciation, affirmation, accessibility, and inclkusion of the Disabled, needing to continue growing in understanding and facilitating the presence and participation of All Persons.............Fr. Troy David

THE MOST SOLEMN KING AND HIGH PRIEST OF ALL CREATION : JESUS THE CHRIST

Faith in and Fidelity to the Supreme Being of the Universe. the Triune God of All Creation, Lord of Life, and Power of Love, Forgiveness, and Salvation, for All Humankind, we who are Catholic Christians celebrate this day as the Solemnity of Christ The King.  Jesus Christ, the Co-Eternal Son of God the Father and the Sender of the Holy Spirit; the Divine and Human Anointed One, Who was  born in Time to be the Save us from Sin and Death in the Mission and Ministry if His Paschal Mystery of Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension.  He is the Sovereign over All Times, Places, and Peoples, magnanimously deserving of  our respect, reverence, love, and discipleship.  The greatest attribute of the Kingship of Jesus The  Christ as the paramount primary priestly and prophetic presence in our lives is the Relationship he chooses to share with everyone who believes and follows Him in answering our Divine Call to Holiness and the assurances of Faith in the  Coming of God's Eternal Kingdom.  May you feast in the Love of God manifested for us in the Liturgy of the Word and Eucharist.the Sacred Meal and Sacrifice the Divine King provides us as a foretaste of the Banquet of Life in the Everlasting Light of God's Kingdom.  All Praise, Glory, and Thanksgiving, to Jesus The Christ - our King and our God.............Father Troy David Powers

THE ASSASSINATION OF PRESIDENT KENNEDY 50 YEARS LATER WHEN WALTER CRONKITE SHONE AS AMERICA'S ANCHORMAN.............

As Day 2 of the four day of 50th Anniversary of the tragic Death of the 35th President of the United States John Fitzgerald Kennedy proceeds, the Commemoration of the events and saturation live  television network news coverage is impressive to behold.  Watching much of the livestreaming of CBSNews.com; and MSNBC.com; yesterday and preparing to do so again today, it it providing striking poignancies.  Having witnessed selected portions of the filmed highlights during the past five decades. those highlights are only the warmup to recollecting the reporting our Nation witnessed, commercial and entertainment free, from Friday afternoon November 22, 1963 to the evening of Monday November 22, 1963.  Watching the CBS News and the NBC News coverage from the day of the Kennedy Assassination, as it unfolded a half century ago yesterday I am struck by a few fresh observations for me.  First, how focused and articulately communicative Walter Cronkite and his colleagues truly were during the initial hours of live coverage without a net they were, from the moment he broke into regular CBS programming with a voice over and only a news bulletin card showing as they awaited a hot television camera to go live with; which when several minutes later he was seen on the air, saw him in the midst of the frentic CBS Newsroom, the confident anchorman exhibiting the full effectiveness and attributes of a news reporter not rattled or detached, but maintaining a calm, deliberate resolve in assembling and delivering the unfolding news as accurately as possible.  Chet Huntley on NBC News coverage of that devastating day, seemed to be distracted and much less assertive in his role as anchorman, letting Frank McGee and a news producer do most of the heavy lifting of the events of the shooting of President Kennedy and its aftermath.  Perhaps it was being without his usual news reporting partner and co-anchor David Brinkley at the outset, or the depth personal shock and grief he was experiencing.  The quality of the news coverage by both NBC News and CBS News during those horrible days was impeccable. what I now observe underscores the way the already respected Walter Cronkite become the reassuring, turn to presence in the homes of Americans, a national Uncle Walter, whose coverage and news coverage of the Kennedy Assassination, the Space Program, Political Conventions, Presidential Inaugurations, the Viernam War, and the Watergate Scandal, became, "The Most Trusted Man In America".  Time for me to get back to the livestreaming of the JFK Half Century livestreaming.............Fr.  Troy David

THAT DAY IN DALLAS 50 YEARS AGO TODAY.............

As we mark the 50th Anniversary date and the four days in November 1963 that changed the Presidency, our Nation, and the World, with the Assassination of President Fitzgerald Kennedy; I will be blogging through Monday on past coverage and present commemorations of the life and death of the first Catholic President of the United States.  Kudos to the news outlets that are providing an extensive chronicle of the events of this harrowing, historic, happening.  The Catholic News Service online is presenting an excellent overview from a Catholic perspective, much of which you will find on my Facebook page.  Also for those with the desire to remember that day as it occurred in real time, CBSNews.com; and MSNBC.com; will both be livestreaming the news coverage of the Kennedy Assassination, being at 10:38 a.m. Pacific Time on CBSNews,com / and 11 a.m. on MSNBC.COM .  More here over the next 96 hours of this Kennedy Anniversary Half Century Commemoration.............Father Troy David Powers

CONTINUING EDUCATION OF THE CLERGY DAY ON R.C.I.A. AND VATICAN TWO @ 50.............

Permanent Deacon Ray Hegelson and Director of the Office of Worship Jim Cavanagh, presented a thoroughly well prepared and resourcefully provided Workshop for the Continuing Education of the Diocesan Clergy - Priests and Deacons, in the Pastoral Center at 21st and Broadway in Sacramento.  It was also trasmitted electronically to a satellite location in Chico.  From 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. we met and interacted to the topic of, 'R.C.I.A. And Renewing The Parish - The Year Of Faith And Vatican II.  It made for a wonderful interactive ministerial day, as I continuously break away from the geriatric haven back into the more normative general community.............fr.tdp

THE PRESENTATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY AND THE WONDERFUL PEOPLE IN THE ARDEN SACRAMENTO PARISH.............

On this Feast Day of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple as a child in fidelity to Jewish practice, we recall her Call by God and the Mission God gave her to become the New Eve, the Mediatrix of Grace, and the Vessel who was to bear the Savior of Humankind, Who is the Co-Eternal of God our Heavenly Father - Jesus the Christ.  Since 2006, this date is also of very special recollection for me, as I praise God and give Thanks for the Parishioners of Presentation Parish in the Arden area of Sacramento, I was pleased to minister to as their Parochial Vicar and Priest In Residence, for three and a half years June 1, 2006 - December 31, 2009.  I would have gladly have become their Pastor if I had been given the opportunity to shepherd, serve, and lead, the Presentation Parish who took seriously the Teachings and Model of Church as the People of God we are in Holiness called to embrace in, "Faith, Fellowship, Collegiality, and Collaboration".  The Spirit of Caring and Sharing in Liturgy and Ministry, Faith Formation and Social Justice they espoused and practiced made it as vibrant and dynamic, perhaps even more a postconciliar Vatican II parish community, as any of the 103 parishes in the Sacramento Diocese, including the 10 parishes and 4 pastorates I have served over the past 26.5 years.  Happy Parish Feast Day People of God in Presentation Parish, Sacramento.  I appreciate and will be forever grateful for the opportunities to serve with and for you, the Greater Glory of the Lord our God and the Common Good of All, in Faithful Witness to Jesus The Christ and emulating the Discipleship Response of Mary His Mother whose Presentation we commemorate today.  Fr.  Troy David Powers

THE CHURCH AS A PLACE OF WELCOME- DISABILITIES ARE NOT DISQUALIFIERS.............

As the Papal Nuncio to the United States, Apostolic Delegate Archbishop Vigano told the November Meeting of the United States Conference of Bishops, (USCCB) in Baltimore, Maryland; last week - the Catholic Church in the United States must become More Welcoming.  The Church must open wide the doors of Faith, Worship, Sacraments, Fellowship, and Ministry, to all who are baptized or seek to be included in the Body of Christ and the Community of Believers the Risen Jesus founded here on Earth.  That means in the words of the 1978 U.S.C.C.B. Pastoral Letter on Persons Wit Disabilities, "There is No Separate Church for the Disabled".  We are all One, and the 14 million Disabled Catholics in the USA are also One with us.  As one of those persons, physically disabled from birth the Church was the one place in my childhood where welcome, acceptance, inclusion, was unconditional.  I chose to become a Priest of Jesus Christ for the Diocese of Sacramento in part, because of my positive, good faith, experiences of welcome and opportunity.  Unfortunately, I cannot say the same thing now, after more than 20 Months of being sidelined and marginalized due to my disability and involuntarily exiled into a retirement community where I do not belong.  My diabetes, transplant, and amputation, do not disqualify me from carrying out my ordained ministry as a priest, only insensitive, unenlightened, or ignorant attitudes about Accessibility and the Inclusion of those of us who are Disabled Catholic Christians does.  As strongly as I feel about the unfairness and injustice I am enduring, I feel even more strongly for others who are disabled or discriminated against because of their physical, intellectual, or development impairments.  The Dignity of the Human Person, Catholic Christian Charity and Social Justice, and Gospel Values steeped in Loving God and Loving One Another, are our birthright and our baptismal obligation in doing what is right and just - for you and me, and for all.  To achieve that anew in my own life I proceed to actively identify and retain an independent living apartment so as to resume a more normal, age appropriate, life and priestly ministry experience in the general community well outside the inappropriate, unacceptable, geriatric setting I continue to be wasting away and warehoused in.  Lord Jesus Hear My Prayer For All The Disabled in the Church, Our Nation, and Around The World.............Reverend Father Troy David Powers

R.C.I.A. IN THE MORNING...IN THE EVENING... .............

R.C.I.A. and Adult Faith Formation Director at Aacred Heart Parish in East Sacramento, Rita Spillane and yours truly, are doule timed together on Tuesdays these weeks doing sessions of the Rite of Christian Initiation instructions - in the morning as catch up discussions with a few Inquirers, and joining our Pastor Msgr. Walton, and fellow team member Anna Marie, for the weekly general sessions with all the Inquirers and some of their Sponsors.  This morning I joined Rita and Inquirer Michael, for a make up session, before I headed off by BK Taxi, to an appointment with Dr. Jakkidi Reddy, M.D., for my face to face powerchair evaluation to be complered.  After lunch I will continue my active search foran independent living general community accessible apartment and mny long overdue release from a retirement I do not, if ever, belonged.............fr.tdp

FIRST ACA ENROLLMENT NUMBERS REVEALED - AN UNFOLDING EMBARASSMENT UNTIL REMEDIED.............

Given the undeniable, unmitigated, disastrous first month October roll out of the Affordable Care Act website, the Obama Administration's Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius has announced the Statistics regarding ACA offered health insurance coverage plans.  106,000 persons have thus far enrolled in a plan; and nearly 1,000,000 persons more have checked out the offerings, but not yet committed to a health insurance plan.  Repairs to the website and the deadlines for choosing a plan are expected to substantially increase the total number of subscribers in coming months.  The start up of Social Security, Mrdicare, and the Prescription Drug Pan, Medicare Part D, also got offto slow starts in being fully implemented.  Sadly. this time partisan politics are joined with the glitches, in complicating the successful execution of the ACA / Obamacare.............fr.tdp

DISABILITY MINISTRY MILESTONES 2.............

Continuing to share with you the Disability Ministry Milestones of the Catholic Church in the United States, provided by CUSA, an Apostolate For Persons With Chronic Illness Or Disability; which I learned about at the National Catholic Partnership for Disability NCPD Convention 2013, in Houston Texas, two weeks ago - here are today's highlighted dates and details, for your information and consideration...

1949 - International Catholic Deaf Association, ICDA founded begun by Deaf adults.
1950 - Monsignor Elmer Behrmann, establishes the Department of Special Education in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, Missouri.
1954 - The American Federation of Catholic Workers for the Blind and Visually Handicapped founded.
1964 - Victorious Missionaries founded at Our Lady of the Snows in Bellview, Illinois; by Father John Maronic, O.M.I., whose Cause for Canonization was initiated in 2004.
1964 - L'Arche begun by Jean Vanier who welcomed two men with Intellectual Disabilities into his home in Trosly Breuil France; it has grown to Homes in 40 Countries on 6 Continents.
1966 - SPRED, (Special Religious Education) founded in Chicago, Illinois; by Father James McCarthy, and Sister Mary Therese Harrington. 
1968 - National Apostolate for the Mentally Retarded, (NAMR) founded by Parents and Pastoral Workers.  Name changes to National Apostolate for Mentally Retarded Persons (NAMRP) National Apostolate with Persons with Mental Retardation (NAPMR) National Apostolate for Inclusion Ministry (NAfIM)

NAfIM merged with the NCPD at the Partnership '13 two weeks ago...To Be Continued.............Father Troy David Powers 

RETURN TO CITRUS HEIGHTS - PERMANENT DIACONATE MINISTRY OF ACOLYTE MASS.............

This morning I returned for a few hours to my first parish as a Priest of Jesus Christ in the Diocese of Sacramento, Holy Family from July 1, 1987-September 25, 1988; which I served as Associate Pastor. On November 24, 2000, I returned to Holy Family Parish, Citrus Heights, as the Pastor until June 27, 2005.  Today I was back there for the Concelebrated Mass with Bishop Soto and 11 other priests for the Ministry of Acolyte, of the 20 Permanent Diaconate Class who will be ordained deacons next June 28, 2014.  Among them are Paul Friedrich from Presentation Parish in the Sacramento Arden area; Mark Hronicek, of Holy Family Parish in Citrus Heights; and Tim Louie, from Weed/Yreka, in Siskiyou County.  I was proud and privileged to be present with them today as they were initiated into the final ministry and ritual step in their final months before Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate.............Fr.  Troy David

THE FOURTH AND FINAL NCPD 2013 KEYNOTE LAUNCHING US INTO HOPE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE DISABLED IN THE U.S. CHURCH.............

The last of the four Keynote Addresses delivered at the NCPD Partnership 2013 Convention in Houston, Texas; was given on Sunday morning November 3, by Dr. Peter Murphy, who spoke on the topic of, "Disciples Called To Witness : What Does The New Evangelization Mean To Me ?"  Dr. Murphy is presently the Executive Director of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Secretariat on Evangelization and Catechesis.  He persuasively and dynamically shared with those of us present how the New Evangelization is about our personal encounters with Jesus The Christ.  He also chronicled how the new Pastoral Letter of the U.S. Bishops, 'Disciples Called To Witness', attests to our need to personalize our relationship to the Risen Jesus within the Community of Believers, Our Families, and in the Everyday Opportunities of the Publics we encounter and interact with daily.  Peter Murphy completed a Doctorate in Ministry from the Catholic University of America, and also has Master's Degrees in both Theology and Counseling.  A married father with three sons, He has extensive teaching and educational administrative experience at multiple levels, from being a grade school teacher and residence hall director, an adjunct professor of Theology, and as a College Director of Student Formation and Administrative Faculty, as well as the serving as the Archdiocese of Washington D.C. Director of the Office of Family Life.  I immensely enjoyed and was further enlightened by all four NCPD  '13 Keynote Dr. Murphy;s presentation Addresses and found Dr. Murphy;s presentation to be a perfect summation and most stimulating treatise going forward in advancing the cause of Disability Awareness and Accessibile, Inclusive, Ministry in the lives of those of us who are among the 14 million Disabled Catholics in the USA.  Over the past 35 Years much has been done, and yet still far more remains to be done in parishes and dioceses throughout the country to make the completreness of the, "Full. Active, Conscious", accessible and inclusive presence and participation of Disabled Persons a reality.  How does your own Parish and Diocese stack up in wholistically welcoming and ministering to Disabled Catholics ?.............Father Troy David Powers

TODAY'S FUNERAL FOR REVEREND FATHER TERRY FULTON.............

The Funeral  Mass and Committal Service for Father Terry Fulton, a nineteen year Priest of the Diocese of Sacramento, who died on November 6th, as the Pastor of St. Maria Goretti Parish in SouthEast Elk Grove, were held today in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, and at St. Mary's Cemetery, in Sacramento.  Bishop Jaime Soto presided over the Concelebrated Funeral Mass with Bishops William Weigand and Francis Quinn; jopned by 81 Priests.  Monsignor Albert O'Connor was the Homilist, and spoke of the fidelity of Father Terry as both an adoptive father of 4 daughters and ten grandchildren; to our nation as a member of the United States Air Force; and as a Priest of Jesus Christ; underpinning the weakness as well as the strength of any man who becomes a priest and yet how one's acknowledged and accepted  weakness can assist in the success a priest and pastor is capable of achieving as Fr. Terry did in the parishes he ministered in, with his work as Pastor of St. Maria Goretti and the Parish's First Church, recently constructed under his leadership being the crowning achievement.  Msgr. O' Connor stated Fr. Fulton was able to succeed as a priest and pastor, even though he could be tough, or what Father Brian Atienza, Pastor of St. Joseph;s Parish in Elk Grove, who presided and preached at the Vigil Service Thursday night referred to as, Fr. Terry's "rough edges".  As the full capacity Cathedral attested today, Father Terry Fulton holds a lasting affection in the hearts and minds of persons he interacted with and ministered to, as both a a deacon and a priest.  Eternal Light, Life, and Love, now be his in the embrace of God's Kingdom.  May his soul Rest in Peace Forever.............fr.tdp

NCPD PARTNERSHIP 2013 KEYNOTER NUMBER THREE IN GALVESTON HOUSTON.............

The third Keynote Speaker at Partnership 2013 of the NCPD, this month at the Marriott Hotel West Chase in Houston, Texas; was Maria Mar Munoz Visoso, who spoke to the Convention about 'Building InterCultural Competence For Ministers'.  Mrs. Munoz Visoso is the Executive Director of the Secretariat of Cultural Diversity In The Church, of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.  She is the former Assistant Director of the U.S.C/C.B.'s  Media Relations Department.  Prior to that she served in various capacities doing Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese of Denver, Colorado.  She spoke in her Keynote Address of the challenges and opportunities Pastors, Parish Teams, and all Ministers face as the Church grows more and more culturally diverse to effectively work together for all peoples, in the Spirit of the New Evangeliztion in interCultural experiences and settings.  This is particularly true in regards to Disability Ministry, as in my priestly and pastoral experience over the past quarter of a century plus, there is sometimes a lack of awareness, sensitivity, or inclusion, in providing for Disabled parishioners.  This is due in part to a Cultural deficiency in understanding or focusing on addessing the Special Needs of the Disabled who seek to worship, be catechized, receive sacramental preparation, or socialize, in the context of Faith, Fidelity, and Fellowship, in the Catholic Church.  Another insightful sharing in taking part in the NCPD '13 gathering this presentation was as the penultimate Address of the Convocation.............fr.tdp

SARAH PALIN VERSUS POPE FRANCIS.............

In a television interview yesterday with CNN's Jake Tapper, on "The Lead', former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican Vice Presidential Nominee, Sarah Palin - took on Good  Pope Francis.  She described herself as, "taken aback", by some of the Supreme Pontiff's statements and said, "he's a bit liberal".  Really ?  Sarah Palin, a resigned Governor, failed Vice Presidential Nominee, and unrenewed Political pundit, dares to call the very well Educated Jesuit, productively people serving Priest and Cardinal Archbishop, and now devoutly outreaching and compassionate Vicar of Christ On Earth, +Jorge Bergoglio / Pope Francis; is imprudent enough to proclaim herself out of touch with the vast majority of the World, who are drawn to this Successor of St. Peter, for his simplicity, directness, and spirit of reform and renewal of the most inclusive and wholistic Church possible, speaks volumes.  Her bona fides for knowing or understanding the authentic pastoral responsibility and prophetic ministry of the Holy are highly questionable.  Were the Catholic Church in the contemporary World not living out the Call to Holiness and Dignity in the post conciliar, ecumenical, Vatican II, era of Catholic Christianity, she might be considered an infidel.  Terms such Apostate and Heretic come to mind in terms of how the pre Vatican Church may have described a prtson like her, who chose to leave the Catholic Church of her baptism for a Fundamentalist denomination.  The timing of her critique of Pope Francis, is also curious, given she is launching a book tour to promote and sell her new book on saving Christmas.  Could her willingness to diss the Roman Pontiff be anything but cashiering the Pope in order to stir up book sales and fill her own coffers ?   It is evident that this is an example of a lightweight versus a heavyweight.  Pope Francis and the, "Francis Effect" his Leadership and Ministry are having on the Church and the World in his first seven months on the Chair of Peter, will remain unvanquished by the self promoting agendas and criticisms of persons such as this whose craving for the spotlight knows no bounds.  I, like others billions proudly stand with Pope Francis and his authenticity as the Supreme Pontiff as we journey together further into the Sacred Truth of the 21st Century of the Salvation attained for us, by Our Lord and the Savior of Humankind, Jesus The Christ.............Father Troy David Powers

NCPD KEYNOTE SPEAKER NUMBER TWO IN HOUSTON @ PARTNERSHIP 2013.............

On Saturday morning November 2, All Souls Day and the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed, in our Catholic-Christian Faith Tradition, the NCPD Partnership 2013 Gathering was presented with a Keynote Address by Dr. Arturo Chavez, the President and CEO of the Mexican American Catholic College, MACC; in San Antonio, Texas.  Dr. Chavez addressed us on the topic of, 'The Transforming Power Of Faith'.  Dr. Chaez spoke passionately about how we who are Disciples of Jesus in the Catholic Christian Church in today's Church must be transformed by those with Disabilities to fervently encounter and include them just as Jesus did in the Gospels. The work and ministry of the National Catholic Partnership for Disability and the 71 Dioceses in the United States   who were present in  Galveston Houston November 1-3, are a contemporary example of the effectiveness Accessibility and Inclusion of the Disabled in our Faith Communities provides the National and Universal Church.  I found Dr. Chavez's presentation and the work he and his colleagues at MACC in San Antonio are doing cause for optimism and a high motivation to more assiduously incorporate the 14 million Disabled Catholics in the Church.............fr.tdp

AS POPE FRANCIS SURVEYS THE CHURCH U.S. APOSTOLIC NUNCIO ADDRESSES BISHOPS ABOUT NOT PREACHING IDEOLOGY.............

The decision of Pope Francis to take a survey of Catholics worldwide in order to determine our feelings and experiences about Church teachings and practices, on matters such as Contraception, Divorce, and Same Sex Marriage, by means of a questionnaire whose findings will be taken into consideration at the next Synod of Bishops in October 2014, on 'Marriage And The Family' for possible renewal, reform, or revisiting.  At their annual November Meeting this week in Baltimore, Maryland the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, U.S.C.C.B.; are discussing the Supreme Pontiff's latest directive to them and how they are starting to organize their Dioceses to carry out distribution of the papally requested questionnaire to the Faithful.  Catholics in Great Britain are already receiving and respoding a questionnaire and other nations should soon almost have them in circulation.  I will share more with you as understanding and information about it unfolds.  Meanwhile, Pope Francis' personal envoy to the USA and  American Catholics, Archbishop + Carlo Vigano, the Apoostolic Delegate to the United States, speaking to the U.S. Bishops on Monday that must avoid, "preaching ideology", and reminded them the Church must become, "more welcome" of all people.  Vigano, the former Governor of thee Vatican City State is also known to be a reform minded leader in the Renewal and ReInvigoration  of the Church.........................Fr.  Troy David

ARCHBISHOPS KURTZ AND DINARDO ELECTED AS NEW USCCB LEADERSHIP TEAM.............

At their Annual November Meeting today in Baltimore, Maryland the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops elected their new Leadership Team.  The outgoing Vice President Louisville Kentucky Archbishop + Joseph Edward Kurtz, was overwhelmingly elected to a three year term as President of the USCCB; and + Daniel Nicholas Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, Texas won election as Vice President of the Episcopal Conference.  More soon as news about this unfolds.............Fr.  Troy David

NCPD PARTNERSHIP 2013 KEYNOTE ADDRESSES AND TOPICS.............

In a forty hour period on November 1-3, at the National Catholic Partnership for Disability Convention 2013, "Where Faith And Disability Meet", in Houston, Texas, we were provided 4 Keynote Addresses - one Friday night; one Saturday morning; and two on Sunday morning.  I will blog about each of those four presentations today through Friday, as I continue to share with you the first fruits of my initial participation in an NCPD annual convention, as one of the 235 attendees from 71 American Dioceses who were there.  I begin today with Keynote Speaker  John Foppe.  God's Unconditional Love, and his personal belief in it derived from his own life experiences as a person born without arms, is at the heart of the message John Foppe delivered to us at the NCPD Partnership 2012 Convocation on Friday night November 1, at the Houston Marriott West Chase Hotel.  John Foppe is the CEO of 'Visionary Velocity Worldwide, who currently serves as the President of the St. Vincent De Paul Society, in the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Missouri.  He is also a lontime corporate motivational speaker on working with Disabilities.  He spoke of the inherent birthright of all God's children to have the right to answer the twofold Call to Wholeness and Holiness.  A determination and fulfillment he has found in his own life, work. and ministry.  John delivered a solid testimony to his unwavering confidence in the possibilities and opportunities for the inclusion of the Disabled in the Community of Believers, derived from their Human Dignity as creatures of a benevolent and compassionate God of All Creation.
He himself shines forth being an outstanding representative of what persons with disabilities can add to the life and ministry of the Catholic Christian Church.  As a fellow amputee I greatly empathized with the astonishing opening Keynote Address.  Kudos to John Foppe !!!  May his Faith filled Ministry and Successful Work continue to inspire and enlighten others to embrace the presence and participation of the Disabled in the Church, the One and universally Inclusive Body of Christ in the World.............Father Troy David Powers
 

VETERANS DAY AND THE ARMISTICE THAT ONLY DELAYED MORE WORLD WAR.............

95 Years Ago Today - at the 11th Hour of the 11th Month of the Year of Our Lord 1918; an Armistice was signed in Europe ceasing the fighting of, "the war to end all wars" (if only it had been). In the intervening near century, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Iran Iraq War, Gulf War, War in Iraq, and Afghanistan War, have ensued.  This date of November 11th, is now observed as Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Great Britain.  It is a holiday to  remember and express our gratitude for aqll the men and women who have served in the military during times of Peace as well as War.  My father Troy Doil, served in the SeaBees during World War II.  My brother Harry, in the U.S. Navy, and brother Jerry, in the U.S. Army, both during the Vietnam War.  Among the other U.S.  Veterans I know and affirm the military service are my MMT tablemate, Loretta Geremia, who was in the United States Coast Guard during WWII; Ed Riehle, who is a career soldier in the United States Army; former Sacramento County Supervisor Ted Sheedy, who was in the United States Air  Force during the early 1960's; and United States Army Brigadier General Retired Don Currier, who served in the past three decades.    Let us also acknowledge the spouses, children, and other family members, of all our Veterans. They also serve in invaluable roles of love, support, and understanding.  I know very well in the case of Teri Tennenbaum that is, as she like most military spouses, cared singularly for children and other loved ones, while their active duty soldier sailor, flyer, or guardsman, is away on a deployment.  Thank you for your Service VETERANS, one and all.  Peace + Prayers,.............Father Troy David Powers

>>>3 More Americans in my personal Circle of Friends I salute on this Veterans Day are Frank McNamara; Bruce Mattos; and Rob Paoletti<<<.............

BIRTHDAYS IN TRIPLICATE - MOTHER, DAUGHTER, PARISH SECRETARY.............

This Sunday November 10, 2013; is the Birthday of three persons in my circle of friends and fellow believers in Jesus the Lord.  Igive a shout out and best wishes on their Personal Solemnity today to Ramona Bugatto, Teres Mugnaini, and Edith Trejo, as they celebrate their Birthdays.  Ramona and Teres are mother and daughter, and have been my beloved friends for 34 years.    Edith, a St. Philomene's parishioner in the Arden Arcade area of Sacramento, I met seven years ago when I was assigned to the parish.  Now Edith serves as the Parish Secretary, working with my seminary classmate Father Eduino Silveira, currently the Pastor of St. Philomene's.  As these three fine Catholic Christian women celebrate the start of their next year of life today may God's richest Blessings of Health, Happiness, Family, and Faith, be theirs.  Love + Prayers.............fr.tdp

DISABILITY MINISTRY MILESTONES IN AMERICAN HISTORY.............

Among the Disability Ministry Milestones in the Catholic Church of the United States over the past century and three quarters chronicled by the NCPD - National Catholic Partnership for Disability begin with the following achievements.

1837 - Two Sisters of St. Joseph Carondelet emigrate from Lyons France to join six other Sisters tp open a school in the Archdiocese  of  St. Louis and invite four deaf students to study with hearing peers.
1853 - St. Mary's School For the Deaf opened in Buffalo, New York.
1900's - Xavier Society For the Blind begins it service to Catholics with Vision Loss.
1936-1957 - Catholic Guilds for the Blind opened in Eleven Dioceses.
1947 - CUSA, founded by Laure Brunner, An Apostolate of Persons with Chronic Illness or Disability; formerly known as the Catholic Union of Sick Associates, and then changed later to the Catholic Union of the Sick; in 1997 became CUSA.

These milestones underscore the origins of the nearly two centuries of Awareness and Ministry to Disabled U.S. Catholics, beginning 141 years before the U.S. Bishops Pastoral Statement on Persons With Disabilities....More To Come.............Fr.  Troy David

POWER CHAIR PARISHIONER GIFT.............

I am very, very, grateful  to former parishioners Sally and Marco Meza, for giving me the Scooter Store powerchair that previously belonged to her mother.  Although five years old it was seldom, if ever used, and so is like new and in tip top shape.  I welcome greatly the mobility it will give me to move about all spaces and places, with self sufficency, independence, and freedom.Thank You Marco + Sally, "30-60-100-fold" !!!  Gratitude ,Prayers,+ Masses,  Father  Troy

THE LASTING KEYNOTES OF THE NCPD 2013 GATHERING IN GALVESTON-HOUSTON.............

 Nearly one week after my attendance at the National Catholic Partnership for Disability Convention 2013 in Houston, Texas; the experience of this vitally important ministry outreach of the Catholic Church in the United States continues to resonate with me, like it does for most of the 14 million Disabled American Catholics, who are addressed, acknowledged, affirmed, and accepted, into their rightful place, presence, and participation. in the life and ministry of the Church.  It reaffirmed me in maintaining my vocation as a Priest of Jesus Christ in so many ways through my interactions and insights garnered from being among the 235 persons present at NCPD Partnership 2013 last weekend, - both those I met and others in the U.S. Church about whom I learned are doing productive and proactive ministry despite the disabilities with which they, "live, move, and have their being".  I also discovered the story of yet another active ministry priest, Reverend Father Mike Esswein, of the Archdiocese of St. Louis Missouri; who in a wheelchair celebrates public Masses from an accessible platform in the parish church to which he is assigned.A photo of Fr. Mike, sitting in his wheelchair celebrating Mass from the accessible platform is featured in a brochure distributed by the NCPD underpinning the Partnership's purpose in, "ensuring the participation of Catholics with Disabilities in the Sacraments and Parish Life".  Their Goal is my Goal, for Accessibility and Inclusion are not an optional extra, but a pastoral and Gospel imperative.  As the National Directory for Catechesis, in the section entitled, 'Catechesis with Persons with Disabilities' asserts, "All persons with Disabilities have the capacity to proclaim the Gospel and to be Living Witnesses of its Truth within the Community of Faith and offer invaluable gifts.  Their involvement enriches every aspect of Church".  As a disabled lay person, deacon, and priest, I am but one among millions who can personally verify these statements.............Fr.  Troy David Powers

THE REVEREND BILLY GRAHAM TURNS 95 DELIVERS LAST SERMON.............

The Reverend Billy Graham, the Protestant Christian Evangelist who rose to prominence following World War II, in the late 1940's and into the 1950's, is marking his 95th Birthday this week.  The Billy Graham Evangelical Association Ministry which spread nationally and then globally, from tent revivals to mass media productions, which he led for over five decades, and is now directed by his son, Reverend Franklin Graham; has preached the Gospel throughout the World.  At a gala, celebrity studded,95th Birthday Celebration, the Reverend Billy Graham who has been in failing health the past decade, delivered what is being described as his, "Last Sermon".  It is a message preached not in the traditional manner from a pulpit inside a church building, but in a thirty minute You Tube style video presentation.  The theme of Reverend Graham's Final Sermon is, "A New Awakening For America".  That title sounds quite the current Catholic-Christian focus on the "New Evangelization".  Coincidence ?  Ecumenism ??  Or God's Holy Spirit working to Unify the Body of Christ ???.............Father Troy David Powers

CATCHING UP @ LUNCH WITH NOE.............

I will meet Noe Perez, my St. Philomene's parishioner-friend, now second year law school student at McGeorge, for lunch today to catch up and enjoy another birthday celebratory meal.  It will be refreshing spending an hour or two with him outside the confines of the same ol' senior-itis of these surroundings and sharing stories about our recent and current activities, and experiencing the opportunity to socialize in a normal way and setting.  I renew my request to my circle of friends and colleagues to know you are  welcome to set up a time to get together with me for coffee, tea, lunch, or dinner, somewhere on J Street here in East Sac, or away from here; in the enjoyment of your company and a further chance for me to get out and about in the replenishment of my socialization, spirituality, and fraternity, in the, "shared experiences of honest friendship", normative for my age and capability as a 57 year old priest.............fr.tdp

POWERCHAIR PROGRESS.............

I made a move closer to a permanent powerchair yesterday, when I met with my former home health nurses and the contractor chosen to evaluate and advocate for my eligibility to receive one.  He found that I qualify and will submit a request for authorization to get me a powerchair.  In the meantime, thanks to my previous parishioners the Meza Family, I will have a transitional powerchair as of this Saturday.  Therefore, I can continue to increase my ambulation and mobility, beyond the stifling and limiting walls of this retirement community residence, where for the past twenty months I have been a fish out of water.  My search for an accessible apartment in the general community of Sacramento, continues with hopeful expectation I will find and rent one real soon.............fr.tdp

REVEREND FATHER TERRY FULTON...REST IN ETERNAL PEACE.............

Prayers of Remembrance and Commendation to Almighty God, for the soul of Reverend Father Terry Fulton, an active ministry priest of the Diocese of Sacramento, who was presently Pastor of St. Maria Goretti Parish, in Southeast Elk Grove, died this morning of lung cancer.  He has previously ministered as Parochial Vicar of St. Philomene's Parish in Arden Arcade Sacramento; and Pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, Chico; and Holy Rosary Parish, Woodland.  Funeral Rites are pending.  May the Lord Jesus Christ in whose Priesthood Father Terry served grant him now the Light and Love of God's Eternal Kingdom.  Alleluia !!!  Amen !!! .............Fr.  Troy David Powers

VICTORS...CHRISTIE IN NEW JERSEY...MCAUFLIFFE IN VIRGINIA...DEBLASIO IN NEW YORK...IN ELECTION '13.............

Republican incumbent Chris Christie was re-leected to a second term as Governor of New Jersey tonight with more than 60% of the vote against Democratic State Senator Mary Buono.  I n a well crafted Victory speech Governor Christie strongly hinted at, and all but declared his campaign for President 2016.  Meanwhile, in Virginia Democratic Fundraiser and former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe won the Governorship of the Old Dominion, over Republican State Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, by a margin of about 1-3% of the vote.  New York City elected its first Democratic Mayor in 20 years with the double digits win by Bill DeBlasio, who ran as an unabashedly progressive candidate in the overwhelmingly Democratic city after two decades of moderate Conservative Republican Mayors Rudolph  Guiliani and Michael Bloomberg.  More blogging about the results of today's off year elections in coming days.............fr.tdp

CHECKING BACK INTO MMT FOR A WHILE LONGER.............

My  five glorious days away in Houston Texas for the 2013 National Catholic Partnership for Disability Convention and my 57th Birthday yesterday and being my escape from the premature senior citizenship center I have had to reside in for the past 20 months has concluded and I am back to the scramble of striving to maximize my continuation in priestly  ministry.  I am also proceeding with identifying and finding another residence, most likely an independent living apartment in the general community, which I have every intention of securing and moving into before the end of 2013, as it is more than apparent placement in a parish rectory is not likely to be offered to me anytime soon.  The N.C.P. D.  gathering reaffirmed me in my belief there is no valid reason for me to depart from the diocesan priesthood or retire; but to find alternative avenues to flesh out and fulfill my vocation.  Thank you for  your prayers and support, in bringng this goal  to fruition.............Fr.  Troy David Powers  

COMMEMORATING HIS LIFE AND CHURCH VOCATION - THE FUNERAL OF FATHER STEVEN FOPPIANO.............

The 57.5 years of Steven Eugene Foppiano's earthly life journey - May 7, 1956 - October 29, 2013; and the 11.5 years of Reverend Father Steven Foppiano's priestly ministry - May 27, 2002    - October 29, 2013; was commemorated at his Funeral Mass in St. Clare's Catholic Church in West Roseville this morning.  Bishop of Sacramento + Jaime Soto, Bishop Emeritus +William Keith Weigand, Bishop Emeritus +Francis Anthony Quinn, and 71 priests, concelebrated  the Funeral Mass in the gathering of 7 deacons, several professed religious, and more than a 1,200 full church of parishioners past and present, along with his legion of eclectic friends. Deacon Richard Griggs, who along with his wife Judy, cared for Father Steven who they took into their home in the last weeks of his life, delivered a profound eulogy and Reverend Father Michael Hendrickson, of the Diocese of San Jose; a seminary classmate preached a personal and ministry driven Homily on Father Steve; and the Episcopal remarks after Communion about Father Steven Foppiano, by Bishop Soto, underscored his appreciation for the courage and wisdom of the priestly ministry Steve carried out in the parishes of St. Clare's in West Roseville, and St. Thomas More, in Paradise.  As I sat in my wheelchair worshipping  and praying,with our bishops, my brother priests, and the deacons, religious, and the assembled people of God, in the final liturgical rites and commendation of Father Steven's life and ministry, remembering the day in early 1995, when I was Pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Oroville; he met with me to discuss his decision to enter the seminary and become a priest, I happily responded and requested one thing of him : that he choose to become a Sacramento diocesan priest, because the Sacramento Diocese needed him most.  I am proud he did and will forever respect and admire his decision and contribution to our Diocese.  Although , nature and the mystery of God gave him brevity in ordained ministry as a Priest of Jesus Christ, the impact and effectiveness of what he has done in just two canonical presbyteral appointments, will endure well into the future.  Strikingly, having those two only parish priest assignments as Pastor and Parochial Vicar, may rank him second in Sacramento Diocesan History to the one and only parish placement and priestly assignment of my childhood Pastor, Boss, Mentor, Second Father, and Dearest Personal Friend - Reverend Monsignor Edward J. Kavanagh, at St. Rose's-St. Patrick's, in South Sacramento.  Eternal Rest, Peace, and Light, Be Yours Forever Father. Steve in the Joy of God's Heavenly Kingdom.............Happy St. Charles Borromeo Feast Day on this my 'Heinz' 57 Birthday !!!.............Reverend Father Troy David "Charles Edward" Powers

BACK IN SAC AFTER ATTENDING PARTNERSHIP 2013 REAFFIRMED AS A DISABLED PRIEST.............

Following the wonderfulness of spending two days with members of the National Catholic Partnership for Disability in Convention at the Marriott West Chase Hotel in Houston, Texas; I have returned to Sacramento tonight for Fr. Steven Foppiano's Funeral in the morning and in time to celebrate my birthday tomorrow.  The NCPD interaction reaffirmed my determination to forge ahead in pushing forward to preserve my priestly vocation and do more to reach out and incorporate those with special needs into full participation in the Body of Christ as welcome and inclusive members in the one and only Church Jesus founded as His Community of Believers throughout the World.  Continue to ponder, pray, and act, with me and the 14 million Catholics in the USA who are Disabled, that the Church at every level will be open and accommodating to making the Catholic Church accessible and empowering of all who seek a place to worship, minister, evangelize, and socialize, with their Brothers and Sisters in Christ.  That they be unfettered by obstacles and obstructions, but rather inviting them to fulfill their Discipleship in the Lord of All Life and the inviolable right to Human Dignity.............Father Troy David

SUNDAY MORNING SESSION @ PARTNERSHIP 2013 IN HOUSTON.............

The closing session of the NCPD Conference starts within the hour we are guestimating a bit, due to last night's Houston power failure doubled by the end of daylight savings time overnight.  From this wonderful 2 days of interaction with others on the parish, diocesan, and national, level of Disability Ministries and Services, I fly back to Sacramento immediately tonight for Father Steven Foppiano;s Funeral Mass in West Roseville.  I will be blogging more on NCPD '13 tonight upon my return to the Capital City of the Golden State.............fr.tdp

MANY AWARDS AND AWESOME WORDS AT TONIGHT'S NCPD BANQUET IN HOUSTON.............

The National Catholic Partnership for Disability Banquet tonight at the Marriott West Chase Hotel in Houston Texas, is something I will remember and especially cherish for the rest of my ordained ministry and indeed my entire life.  The banquet food and service were superb; but the banquet program of presentations, speeches, and awards,were even more superior.  I will savor, discern, digest, contemplate, remember, and with an, "attitude of action", to work and minister to bring the words and inspiration this evening's event has instilled in me and many, many, many, dozens of others present and throughout the parishes and dioceses, of the USA.  It  is overtime  to embrace, empower. and make accessible, the inclusion of persons with special needs, be we, - priests, deacons, religious, laity. or any person. For every human person has the right to dignity inherent in our being.  Just as we are reaffirming here in Houston the 35th Anniversary of the U.S. Bishops 1978 Pastoral Statement On Persons With Disabilities, which states, "There is No Separate Church for the Disabled"; so too is there no place anymore, anywhere, for bias, prejudice, insensitivity, separation, injustice, or discrimination, to be present in the American and Universal  Church.  That "Attitude of Action", was so brilliantly proclaimed in the words of our host Bishop, +Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, and other speakers tonight. From here,'Where Faith And Disability Meet', may the Light of Jesus The Lord Of All Creation Shine Brightly throughout the Catholic Church and the Christian Community of Believers Now and Forever !!!.............fr.tdp

NCPD 2013...'WHERE FAITH AND DISABILITY MEET' CONVENTION DAY SATURDAY.............

Today at the NCPD annual gathering will start with All Souls Day Mass, Morning Prayer, a special Commemoration of the Dead, followed by a full day of a keynote address, breakout sessions, focused lunch discussions, a vendors reception, and an NCPD Awards Banquet tonight, at which the Archbishop of Galveston Houston, +Cardinal DiNardo, who is the Chairman of the Board of the National Catholic Partnership for Disability, will be the Featured Speaker.  It will make for a most meaningful way to mark this November 2, 2013; the 26.5 year day of my Ordination to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ, for the Diocese of Sacramento California in 1987.............Reverend Father Troy David Powers

SUPER SHUTTLE SACRAMENTO TO SOUTHWEST AIRLINES HOUSTON.............

A smooth, if long journey from Sacramento to Houston today for the NCPD Convention that opens tonight.  The 7:40 a.m. flight from Sacramento landed in Phoenix for a plane change and then a 2:40 p.m. arrival in Houston.  It then took more than 2 hours to go from the airport ton the hotel. After check in and a quick dinner it was time for the Opening Session and Welcoming Reception which included Prayer led by the Retired Archbishop Emeritus Fiorenza; tonight's Keynote Address by a St. Louis layman born without arms and yet an accomplished and inspiring active participant in ministry and business; and the merger ceremony between the 45 year old National Apostolate for Inclusion Ministry, (N.A.f.I.M.) and the now 31 years of the National Catholic Partnership for Disability (N.C.P.D.).  An impressive start to this weekend's convocation it was.  My initial personal  interaction with N.C.P.D. concluded on this first night with an exchange of greeting and introduction with Dr. Nancy Thompson, who is the  N.C.P.D. Director of Programs and Diocesan Relations.  A great start plugging in to this indispensable Catholic outreach ministry.............Fr.  Troy David

THE SOLEMN LITURGY OF ALL THE SAINTS OF GOD IN GLORY.............