A Message from Heaven

Many times on this journey, I questioned whether I should continue. The work consumed time. Because I took it seriously, it occupied my mind even when I wasn't actively working on it. Writing a book wasn't what I'd expected to do in retirement, especially about something that happened two decades ago. The work was also "on and off," and during some of the “off” times, I questioned the need to continue.  

When I began my research, I knew I'd rely on many source materials. Being a pack rat, I had tucked away things two decades earlier for no reason at the time. But I also wanted other people's perspectives. So I started a list of people to interview.  

One "candidate" was a priest from Germany. He had attended the groundbreaking ceremony at the parish in 2000. Later, he became a bishop. My web searches suggested he was in Germany, or perhaps Italy. With help from a diocese in Germany, I obtained an email address for him. I sent an "are you there?" message. The bishop replied. Progress!  

I next sent a longer introductory message. The bishop acknowledged it. So far, the protocol I'd followed for most of my interviews was working. Then I sent a query asking whether he would be willing to have a chat about Fr. Ron Lewinski. Even though his email address was in Germany, his replies suggested he was working in Rome.  

His response left me stunned.  

He would be happy to talk about Fr. Ron. In fact, he said, it was as if my request was a message from heaven. Huh? No one has ever credited me with writing angelic emails. I asked what he meant. He explained that when he received my email request, he was at the cemetery paying his respects to Fr. Ron -- in Mundelein, Illinois!  

The bishop wasn't in Italy. He wasn't in Germany. When he received my request to talk about Lewinski, he was at Lewinski's grave! (When we met later for a chat he declared, "I had a deep desire to visit Ron's grave. I was praying there Monday morning when I received your email. It was quite a wonderful sign of Providence, you know.”)  

I interpreted that as a sign to continue my work.  

I'm glad. If I hadn't, I would never have met the wonderful people I have, and be able to share their memories with you.

Send me your comments/questions.

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