Recently, Fr. Herb Essig, pastor at , was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer. He is now engaged in a med-tech battle at Loyola Hospital for healing, a type of "self-transplant" of his blood. It is a complicated procedure requiring strong chemotherapy and reuse of his blood to "jump start" good blood cell production. (A simplified description here.) Needless to say, Fr. Herb is in quarantine to minimize exposure to infection and to insure a strong recovery period.
Through the shock of this news and the steps he has taken along this journey, Fr. Herb remains stalwart and humble. He referred to this treatment as his "Lenten penance." His Lenten penance - incredible.
When we, as a Parish family, learned of his situation, we shared tears and concerns as well as ardent prayers and best wishes for him — for his quality of life, for his care and most especially, for his healing.
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Before Fr. Herb went for this treatment, what did he do? He worked with the parish staff and deacons to establish a well-planned schedule for the coverage of liturgies and events within the parish. He insured that we have a number of priests to preside at our Masses and asked the deacons to assist as needed.
Despite this serious illness, he has not abandoned us, but remains as our "good shepherd" with concern for us, his flock. We thank God for this wonderful priest and pastor, asking that our Lord would hear our heartfelt prayers for Fr. Herb's deepest needs and intentions. Let us journey this Lent in faith, hand-in-hand and heart-to-heart with Fr. Herb. He deserves so very much; we offer what little we have as HIS Parish Family of St. Francis.
