June 2, 2024
Cathy Schanzer Update
Return to Serabu by Tom Lewis

 The last couple of weeks have included a mission presentation to our friends at a local Presbyterian Church, a 2800-mile road-trip to Subiaco Arkansas, and today’s Corpus Christi Procession. During all these activities, Cathy remains stable and determined to improve her health. Next Sunday we head back to Serabu and plan to be there until the end of June.

 It was our second time to present our mission work to Pastor Sharan Knoell and the wonderful people of Valley United Presbyterian Church in Waverly NY. A good meal preceded our mission presentation and Spirt-filled Q & A. Donations to Southern Eye Institute continue to flow from generous Church members. Thank you VUPC. Your love and support are deeply appreciated.

 After our mission presentation we departed for Subiaco Abbey, a Benedictine monastery located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. Founded in 1878, Subiaco has been an important part of our family since before I was born. Monks related to my mother have been part of this Holy Order since the 1940’s. Some day Cathy and I will be buried in the Subiaco columbarium, near our deceased monk-friends. We had a sweet dinner visit with Fr. Jerome, who is a former Subiaco Abbott and one of their woodworkers. He has agreed to make our cremation urns. Attending morning masses and evening vespers with these holy men was extra special. We also had some wonderful visits with family and friends that we encountered along the way. And as we walked a few blocks in today’s Corpus Christi Procession, we offered prayers of thanksgiving for all our amazing blessings and especially for the incredible people in our lives. God bless you.