THANKSGIVING DAY - 2005: THANKSGIVING AFTER A FIRE

Thanksgiving Day - 2005

To all concerned:

A fire struck my living quarters in Somerset a week and a half ago. I have
been living at a local Motel and will be at the apartment from now on.  The
fire has been termed "catastrophic" by the insurance agency.  The building
sustained considerable damage, but outside the residence area.

My personal loss is significant, the vast damages from the fire concentrated
in my apartment areas, and heavy smoke and water damage throughout. I am in
the process of recovering a few rooms to restore them to living conditions.

Today, I give thanks to Almighty God for the many blessings He has given to
me in my life.  Today, I thank Him for the gift of freedom.  Possessions and
things held me down.  I was captive, and have been set free.  

I asked for security, and God gave me Freedom.

In December, 1999, in a personal health crisis, I learned how precious life is.

On September 11, 2001, I learned how precious each moment of life is.

In October, 2001, when I tried to buy the Chapel and sold what I considered
of "value" to acquire the property, I learned possessions are not important.

On November 13, I learned even what I considered absolutely essential is, in
fact, expendable.

I was slow to separate myself from many things, and so, the process was
taken out of my hands and accelerated.

Recovery will be slow.  I have finally learned my limitations.

I do not intend to replace what has been lost.  I intend to use to the best
advantage what has been salvaged. The insurance was inadequate to cover the
loss.

My loss is not total.  Almost selectively, the most valuable furniture has
been miraculously spared from damage from fire and smoke.

God is pointing me in a new direction.

The Chapel is unaffected, although my time there will be considerably
curtailed until I reestablish a residence.

God's Peace to you all.

(Rev.) Alphonse T. Mascherino