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I’ve often said that when Saint Paul writes to the Corinthians, I feel he is actually writing to the Carolinians. On Sunday, I felt his letter was addressed specifically to me:
“Everything indeed is for you, so that the grace bestowed in abundance on more and more people may cause the thanksgiving to overflow for the glory of God.
Therefore, we are not discouraged; rather, although our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.
For this momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen; for what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal.
For we know that if our earthly dwelling, a tent, should be destroyed, we have a building from God, a dwelling not made with hands, eternal in heaven.”
(2 Cor 4:15-18, 5:1)
This week after my third surgical procedure to address my perforated appendix, I received word that the pathology report detected the presence of cancer. The most troubling part of this news is that the cancer was found where the tract was perforated, and most likely was not contained, but instead may have spread out into the abdominal cavity. This is definitely not the prognosis I was hoping for or expecting. I trust in that inspired word spoken by Saint Paul that “Everything is for you” and that there will be a “Grace bestowed in abundance."
While removed from liturgies and recuperating from this most recent surgery, you have been the cause for my thanksgiving to overflow. Before I could even process the prognosis personally, the promise of your prayers poured in ... as well as the pans of lasagna. The solidarity of the saints of Saint Pius that I feel as well as of my family and friends elsewhere has strengthened my sure and certain hope which lies beyond the horizon and is yet unseen. As many of you know I have an allergy to pain and needles and all things medical, so pray for me to preserve “that this momentary light affliction” might produce some weight of glory as I bear it.
Our new Bishop Michael has already reached out to me three times as I write this. His pastoral assurance has been a source of relief as I consider what my medical and ministerial options may be. Since the year 2000, I have had the privilege of pitching this “tent” with you, and while things are very serious, I don’t anticipate having to fold it all up soon. Those caring for my Body, Mind, and Spirit, to whom already I owe so much, will be working for our continued success in ministry and mission. Because of the nature of my cancer, I will travel out of state this week for an expert medical opinion. I appreciate your patience as I adjust my calendar and commitments.
Thank you for the kindness you show my staff and my brother priests assisting our parish at this time. I hope to soon share more about my prognosis after consulting with my medical team. Until then, know that I am not discouraged, but now joined with all those in our family of faith seeking comfort as we carry the cross of illness, and I ask that we keep each other in prayer.
Sincerely,
Monsignor Marcaccio
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