I made it to Mass today up at the EWTN Chapel. But, although I got there early and waited in line until Mass was about to begin, I did not make it confession. Because the priest almost didn’t make it to hear confessions! So when the line was down to one person in front of me, Father said, “I’ll be back to hear confessions after Mass,” and scooted out of there. There went my place in line. I had to get up to Hanceville after Mass so I couldn’t wait in line in Irondale again. Oy.

I made it to Hanceville just as the Divine Mercy Holy Hour was beginning. Walking across that courtyard or plaza, whatever you call it, isn’t easy when you’ve got lung problems. But I made it only slightly winded, huffing and puffing, concentrating hard to slow my breathing to a semi-normal rate. (It’s so embarrassing when folks think you’re having a heart attack or an asthma episode when you’re just winded from walking.) (And how come it’s called “winded” when you’re out of wind, huh?)

I saw one seat left in the back and slid into it next to a very kind lady who allowed me to share her program (for some reason I’m not sure that’s the word, but nothing else occurs to me right now). A lot of singing involved in this holy hour. And a lot of incense was hanging in the air. (Cough cough!!) The lack of air conditioning and fans blowing was immediately apparent. The power is still out in a lot of places up there in North Alabama, lots of trees down. (I’ve never seen so many big trees down in my life as I’ve seen since Wednesday’s storms.)

‘ll write more later. I’m about to be late to Evening Prayer!

My heart goes out to all who have been affected by these awful storms that ravaged the South last Wednesday. May the Lord have mercy on us all. I’ve been offering my prayers, Masses, Rosaries, and Divine Mercy Chaplets for those who lost so much in such a brief horrible few moments.

For those who lost their lives to the storms: Eternal rest grant them, Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.