Father Simone’s Word of the Week

There was a woman I never knew, who is now my sister: Christina Simone, my sister in law.  The Simone and Orsinelli families never knew one another, until God brought Christina and my brother, Steve, together in marriage.  In my wedding speech, I told Christina “I never grew up with sisters.  You’re the sister I never had and always wanted.”  When Jesus made of one flesh Steven and Christina in marriage, He made Christina a “sister in law” that she might become a “sister in love.”  In a marriage formed in Christ, He unites two families into a bigger family.  The Simones and Orsinellis have different brands of humor, recipes, style and traditions.  The Simones are movie fanatics.  The Orsinellis are die-hard sports fans.  When we gather together, families become family…united in our diversity.  We are ultimately about the same things and particularly when we eat or pray together, you can’t tell the difference among us. 
 
Were it not for Jesus’ Marriage to His Bride: His One Church, I wouldn’t be the priest I’ve become and I wouldn’t be here with you this October 19, 2025.  I’m thankful Holy Redeemer and St. Jerome were familiar with each another over the years.  Collinwood is a small place, with many corners and flavors, but complimentary.  Not everyone grew up with a sister, but some are given one.  Not every parish grew up with a sister, but some are given one: a “sister in law” that they become a “sister in love.”  On this weekend of my installation as your pastor (PHEW!), I see fruits of His marriage.  Only God in His marriage to us can make two families a bigger one…united in their diversity.  Sisters in love don’t lose their uniqueness and personalities.  They love their own house, habits, sights and familiar feel.  When they visit, they find another place they’re welcome and belong.  At a meal, they’re family.  Before the altar of the Eucharist and Jesus, there is one family.  Praise be to Christ that across the world, there is one altar, one tabernacle, one Eucharist, One Lord.  In a way I never could have deserved, I get to be Jesus’ for love you as His priest and spiritual father.  I only truly learned what it is to be a father in my time here with you.  Sisters need not worry about who gets hugs and when.  They both do.  Sisters never doubt about who is loved more, because that hurts the Father.  Rather both are loved as they are and love that they both are.  They rejoice when one is built up, as they’re built up together.  Jesus sees and loves each of you, both and altogether.  I promise I will strive to.  Blessed in His love to now be your pastor at Holy Redeemer and St. Jerome, love you all.  Bishop says I can stay!