I spoke about Msgr. George Thompson
at all Masses this weekend. Here is an outline of my talk:
I wish to speak to you about Msgr. George
Thompson.
Msgr. Thompson was away this summer for
most of July-August and September.
When he returned, we knew something
was wrong. He was exhibiting memory
issues. He was confused. He could no longer even say Mass. It happened so
quickly! We decided to:
-
Ask him for his car keys
-
Take him for medical testing
-
Ask the assistance of our Vicar for
Clergy, Bishop Walsh, and our Priest Wellness Coordinator, Deacon DiMartino.
Msgr. received a very difficult
diagnosis – he did ask us not to share it – but it has to do with short term memory.
Bishop Walsh and Deacon DiMartino met with Msgr. and recommended that he move
to our St. John Vianney Clergy Center in Riverdale – where a section is devoted
to priests with memory issues. Msgr. asked if he could stay at St. Columba
until after Christmas, and his wish was respected.
Yesterday (Friday), he made the move
to Riverdale where he will receive excellent care. His new address will be
available in next week’s bulletin if you would like to send him a card.
I would like to thank our entire
parish staff – most especially Gary Bartilucci, Laura Brady and Father Connolly
for helping to give him excellent care, and our own Ministry of Care that
helped us with doctor visits.
Msgr. Thompson is one of our finest
priests, and we are going to miss him very much. Personally, he is a dear
friend and a mentor. Please continue to pray for him.
