Brothers and Sisters in Christ.  I want to give you an update on the issues with my back and when I might be able to return to full time ministry.  I live to gather around the tables of Word and Eucharist with you and celebrate the Lord's presence among us.  I miss that so much.


You know the dates for my surgeries have been rescheduled at least three times already.  The original plan was to have the initial surgery one day, two to three days later, the followup/concluding surgery, then seven to eight weeks of rehab.  Many ducks had to be put in a row between the two parishes before any of this could take place.  Primarily trying to find a priest that could fill in for me on weekends.  Then there are funerals to cover and other sacramental needs.  This all fell through two days before the planned surgery one of the attending surgeons came down ill and everything was cancelled.


The second reschedule was for this past December.  1st surgery December 18th and the second on December 22nd.  The surgery on the18th went well but there were problems where my body temperature could not be stabilized and no infections etc. were discovered.  What they did discover was a blood clot in my right leg. So that put a definite stop to phase two surgery.  I was released from the hospital December 26th.

The surgeons want the blood clot issue resolved along with some respiratory issues I have.  I have to be on Eliquis, the blood thinner for 3 months before they will consider phase two surgery.  Counting on my fingers, three months from the date I began the Eliquis puts me in April for the next window of opportunity for surgery.

I have periodic scheduled appointments with the neurosurgeon, the next one being February 8th.  I have no idea what this will be all about.  Throughout all this I and my wonderful staff are scrambling to make sure all our bases are covered for Sacraments etc.  We cannot operate on again,off again, on again,off again.

This past week I think it was Monday the 18th of January and then Tuesday the 19th.  I had phone calls from Bishop Gruss and Fr. Bill Rutkowski the Vicar General.  Fr. Bill is the right hand man to the Bishop.  For the sake of the parishes and especially the spiritual well being of all concerned it was decided that I would take a temporary medical leave of absence.  I won't be moving anywhere, I remain pastor with full canonical rights and privileges but am relieved of the duties of sacramental ministry.  For the past number of weeks Fr. David Jenuwine has been covering for me, for which I am eternally greatful.  Bishop Gruss has assigned Fr. David as the sacramental minter during this time of my leave.  Fr. David's assignment will extend to June 30, 2020.  Assuming all going well health wise, I'll resume full pastoral responsibilities July 1, 2021.  Fr. David will also take up residence at the rectory in Bannister.


Thank your for your continued support and prayers during these times.  I keep that Bookmark Prayer of St. Theresa of Avila close at hand. What solace and comfort.

In Christ and Mary,
Fr. Bill Gruden
Pastor