It's been a long time since writing, but that's thanks to retreats and the catch-up that follows.

July has been a busy month at the Cathedral, and certainly one that has been both faith-building and faith-reliant.

Spending time with the Sisters this month was a powerful experience. It's kind of humbling to be able to spend 12 days of the month praying with others and reflecting on God's activity in our lives. My longest retreat (personally) was a 15 day retreat when I was preparing for final vows in the Capuchin community, and it was a time of both challenge and grace. So, spending almost the same amount of time, albeit as a director, was spiritual renewing and intellectually exhausting. Would I do it again? Absolutely, since the graces that flowed from these weeks were immeasurable.

But I think we all know what happens when God speaks and acts so powerfully. Satan loves to get in there and break down all of the goodness. Satan knows that my weak point is a lack of patience and perfectionism. When things aren't up to "my" standard, my buttons get pushed and I say things that are abrupt and sometimes hurtful. At the same time, because I realize I can't live up to my own standard of perfection, I become anxious and short-tempered, even with myself.

So, what to do? I hope my attempts this week give me the answer. I've found some more time to pray; I've been less involved in connecting with friends, and, to their chagrin, with family members. Don't worry--it's not isolating--it's just time to regroup and find some time with God who has been put on hold for too long a time.

In short, it's been a much better week, thanks to God's invitation into the desert. Have no fear--Father Joe will be back soon!