As
Vocation Director for the Diocese of Scranton, one of my ‘happiest’ days in
ministry was Wednesday, September 21. The local church of Scranton honored
Bishop James C. Timlin, Bishop Emeritus for the Diocese, with a special Mass
and reception. At 89 years old, he celebrated 65 years of Diocesan Priesthood
and 40 years as Bishop. What a great example for all, especially young people
struggling with the ability to commit to their vocation. A dedicated
servant of God, Bishop Timlin gave beautiful witness and testimony to a
standing room only cathedral filled with priests,
religious sisters, lay faithful and many students from Catholic Schools throughout the Diocese.
In
his homily, Bishop Timlin focused on three
points: Saint Matthew (whose feast day it was), his ordination to
the priesthood, and his gratitude to everyone. Matthew was called by Jesus to follow him. Matthew, an ordinary
man, a sinner and not well-liked because he was a tax collector
ended up being a great apostle and evangelist. This reminds us that God calls
many individuals from all different walks of life, loving us in our sinfulness
and giftedness. We need to stay open to an
encounter with Jesus that can be transformative. The Bishop reminded us that he
is from an ordinary family in North Scranton and Holy Rosary Parish. God has
blessed him in many wonderful ways.
Bishop
Timlin went on to say his ordination to the priesthood was the transforming
moment in his life. “One of the greatest days of my life was when I was
ordained a Priest.” He thanks God everyday for calling him to be a
priest. How wonderful is this personal witness of service! He also went
on to thank God for his parents, his family and everyone who has blessed him
throughout these many years.
I
couldn’t help but think that Bishop Timlin has as much energy today as he did
thirty-two years ago
when I lived with him at the Cathedral. The celebration was the best
possible commercial for God and the People of God. "It doesn’t get better than
this!" Congratulations Bishop Timlin and thank you on behalf of everyone
in the Diocese of Scranton.
Ad multos annos!
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Father Don Williams is the "recycled" Vocation Director for the Diocese of Scranton, serving in the role from 1997-2002 and 2013-present.
He is in residence at Saint Paul Parish in the Green Ridge section of Scranton.
In November, he will celebrate thirty-three years of Priesthood.
He is the third oldest of eleven children.
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He is in residence at Saint Paul Parish in the Green Ridge section of Scranton.
In November, he will celebrate thirty-three years of Priesthood.
He is the third oldest of eleven children.