Friends in Christ,
I want to write to you to update you on my cancer journey and to thank you for your overwhelming support and love that you have shown throughout this past year. It has been a massive season of trials and tribulations for sure, but more importantly, it has been a season of gratitude and thanks, not only to God who has healed me from the cancer, the broken back, both cases of Covid and the triple pneumonia, but for each of you who have held me in your prayers and shown such love and support to me throughout this past year.
A special thanks goes to Darnell and Maritta, who kept things going both liturgically and musically while I was out. I am overwhelmed by the support that was shown by all the cards, food and volunteers for rides that I received. There were only 15 times I needed rides to chemo and/or radiation and over 75 volunteers stepped up to provide rides. For those who weren’t called, know how much I still appreciate your generosity. The numerous meals and gift cards were and are still being well used. It has made eating nutritiously a lot more feasible, especially now that I’m back at my apartment and slowly recovering my energy. In my 16 years here, I have always known how special this community is and how generous each of you are.
I would be remiss in not thanking you for the countless prayers that have been offered on my behalf. I have been prayed through this experience by people on every continent, including Antarctica. You are mighty prayer warriors and I thank God for each of you.
There is much more to say, but I am just now beginning to actually process what this year has been and have started journaling, but one thing that I have already processed is my gratitude for the countless blessings and miracles I have received from God via your intercessions on my behalf. I am humbled and honored to have been the recipient of your prayers.
May God bless each of you and our parish in a mighty way, especially as we realize the calling that God has given us, and I encourage you to live your calling in gratitude and joy.
In Christ’s love,
Brent McWilliams,
Director of Liturgical Music