He Really Is a GOOD MAN!

We enjoyed such a treat on Friday night! Our friend - and former pastor - starred as Charlie Brown in a production of "You're A Good Man Charlie Brown." It was a dinner theater production by adults at his current parish to raise funds for a program called "SPICE" (Special People in Religious Education). I cannot say enough about how great the evening was. We enjoyed being with some wondeful friends, had a very nice dinner, and absolutely loved the performance. We were amazed by all of the decorations and special touches that made the night so fun. Both nights of the performance were sold out! What a great event it was.

I apologize for this blurry picture, but I just had to show my three great friends -
Sara, Mary Lou, and Mitzi.
They were our "table mates" for the evening.

Now seriously, how many priests do you know who would agree to go onstage as Charlie Brown? Think of all of the hours of rehearsal. Think of the costume, the singing, and just the humility it takes to be a Charlie Brown. Well, Father Leo was PERFECT for this role! He is so generous with his time and talents. He's a great singer. And, with great love I say this, he is quite Charlie Brownish in real life! I absolutely love that he did this. He is a wonderful priest who is ALWAYS there for people when they need them. AND he knows how to have fun.

Father Leo was the pastor at the school where I taught and then I became his pastoral associate for faith formation. We worked closely together for four years. I learned tons from him. We went through many tough experiences together, but we also had many great adventures (including taking tons of kids to camp in the summers and acting as ADVENTURE RANGERS every week for the school kids). Many of my my family members frequently laud his diverse talents when remembering my wedding day. Father Leo not only presided at our Wedding Mass, but also sang "American Pie" at the reception AND apprehended a would-be purse thief. He visited the hospital when the boys were born. He baptized them. We are truly blessed to call him our friend!

Here is Father Leo with our boys at the end of the performance:

                                              

In this picture the boys are so tired they can hardly stand up, but they really enjoyed the evening. They loved seeing Father Leo on stage being funny. Ray intensely studied every scene change and special effect. Adam has been pretending to be Snoopy all weekend.

Hats off to Father Leo..... You are truly a good man! :) Thank you for your friendship and your witness and ministry to us and to so many.