Father Ruschman's Reflections

Thanks so much for all your support - (kind words, gifts, good food and assistance) during my three months at St. Timothy. You say that I have been a blessing to the parish but the parish has been a blessing to me as well. It is an inspiration to see parish involvement by so many of you, young and old; and the deep spirituality manifested in your continuing prayer. There is much work to be done in this growing area. Reach out to neighbors and friends and together you walk the journey of life. May the Lord richly bless St. Timothy Parish as Fr. Bolte becomes your pastor.

Fr. Al Ruschman
October 2, 2005

We Continue the Journey

The Oktoberfest was quite an experience. It was like Coney Island right in our backyard. Many thanks to the organizers, chairpersons, workers and attendees. The food was great; it was enjoyable chatting with parishioners and meeting with friends.

My three months at St. Timothy have gone quickly. It strengthens my faith to see the dedication and goodness of so many of you, especially young families. There is a lot of support that you give to one another; you need also to reach out to neighbors and friends who are struggling with their relationship with Christ and with their faith.

With my return to St. Thomas Parish in Ft. Thomas and resuming my duties there, we will be separated by miles, but at the Lord’s table we remain one with Christ and each other. Welcome, support and work with Fr. Bolte as you walked with me. We continue the journey.

Fr. Al Ruschman
Sept. 25, 2005

We are Many Parts

I wake each day to the crowing of roosters and the bawling of cows, but a half hour later one could be caught in a traffic jam in front of Kroger.

Farmer parishoners come for weekday Mass bringing a basket of tomatoes for sharing while in the same pew sits a suburban family from Triple Crown. Any number of professionals and jobs are represented among St. Timothy parish- too numerous to mention.

Around the altar, however, we are all one -- singing, praying and going forth to do God’s work. We are many parts but we are one body, the Body of Christ.

Fr. Al Ruschman
August 28, 2005

Back to School

The first day back to school brings excitement and concern. We are glad to see friends again, but we worry about new buildings, teachers and classes. How will we fit in and remain “cool” as we begin the fall term? This doesn’t even consider the college issue of being away from home.

Is it all worth it? In the first twelve years we don’t have a choice. It’s a matter of doing our best and searching for subjects that peak our interest and stretch our talents. During these years by cooperation with teachers and students we learn discipline and respect for others. Often during primary and middle school, observant teachers recognize our strengths and encourage us. By senior high we already have some direction - good in math, art, languages. If we are fortunate, a scholarship comes with graduation.

School is our early life formation. It’s an exaggeration to say: “everything I needed to know I learned in kindergarten”, but early years do bring formation.

Let’s make the most of our school years by coming to love learning and
scholarship. At Covington Latin School where I went, an inscription over the main entrance reads: “Teach me goodness, discipline and truth”.

Fr. Al Ruschman
August 21, 2005

Keeping Focused in a Busy Life

Religious people doing significant work for family, parish and community sometime feel distant from God. They have lost a camaraderie with Jesus that they had when the Lord seemed to call them by name. They may feel their own words and actions to and about others seem harsh and gossipy. They are going to Mass and keeping sacraments but inner peace evades them. Some persons regain closeness to God by reading slowly a few verses of Scripture. Centering Prayer nourishes others. A quiet time at home or at church brings focus to some. For me, a quiet walk in the cool of late evening conversing with God about the day restores meaning and purpose. Sometimes I don’t say anything, but let the beauty of an evening sky or gentle breeze restore my drained spirit. High up on the Isle of Capri, off Italy’s southern coast, there is a fine old castle, spacious, airy with a view of the sea. On one wall is painted: “The Soul Needs More Space Than The Body.”

Fr. Al Ruschman
August 7, 2005