The letter that cut like a knife through me emotionally came last week. I was surprised at the pain. I haven't reacted like that in the past. The letter was from Father Wilhelm informing his parishoners that he has been reassigned to Fargo. Father W. is not only very well-liked, but respected by all who know him--both Catholic and non-Catholic alike. The Bishop had told him a couple of months ago that he could stay here for six more years! What glorious news that was. And now...he's leaving. This is very sad. I know that others have reacted the same way that I have, so I'm not alone.

Father W. is special to me for a number of reasons, but especially for my MS. He calmed my fears before I was diagnosed, telling me that his mother also has MS and that I would just need to take more naps and not work quite so hard. He has given me special blessings and has put his hand on the outside of the middle of my back. Each time he has done that (twice), I imagine I can feel healing from his hands. For a couple of days after, I tend to feel better. Father W. also told me that 'no matter what MS did to me,' I would still be going on the trip to see the Pope in 2008.

This man is so very, very special! I have never known a priest like him. He has a habit of hugging people--and everyone loves to get his hugs. He is very, very tall and just envelops people when he hugs them. He is truly a disciple of Christ. Oh, how I will miss him. He has helped me with my faith journey. I do know, however, that one's faith is not dependent upon one individual. Still, I will be so very sad, along with hundreds of others, to see him go.