Forty-Two
I STAY FOR A WHILE after Anna leaves, Helen and I discussing in wonder how our parish family has rallied around her.
Looking out the window, I can see Myerton Cemetery, specifically a hill with a large maple tree.
Turning to Helen, I say, “Darling, I hate to leave you, but I need to see someone. To thank them.”
She smiles and takes my hand. “Tell her I said hello.”
***
THE HARDEST QUESTION for most priests to deal with is, “Why did God let this happen?”
Certainly, before and during my priesthood, I have had many opportunities to both ask and answer—or fail to answer, more precisely—that question. Why did Joan and our daughter have to die? Why did I have to give up a job that I loved at Myer College? Why did I end up in a monastery? Why couldn’t I stay?
I d
