The last couple of weeks have been quite a roller coaster ride. Maybe you have already heard some of this already. After writing Archbishop Aymond about our concerns for the future of Tau House, he called me yesterday afternoon. The letter was hand delivered to him Monday morning. He informed me of the following: Tau House will be closed after the Sisters leave and most likely sold after that. He said he has no personnel to live there and the cost of repairs of maintenance are prohibitive. What Fr. Galvez led us to believe about his moving in was all untrue. All three of us who had met him were sure that's what he said. The archbishop did say that he wants the ministry of Tau House to continue, although in a different place, somewhere in or near the quarter. Perhaps the cathedral school which closed this last May. In any case, it does appear that Galvez will head up that ministry. In any case, I feel we were heard, we did not just let a decision come down without taking action. I feel that it was an issue of justice in the church.
I suppose I am at peace and accepting (or at least working on it) of what all has transpired. At least no one totally foreign to the idea of Franciscan spirituality will be there to mess things up. A clean break will be made. The archbishop was clear that the Franciscans have a right to whatever they brought there through their ministry. The same for the sisters and for the individual members. He is aware that some items will be removed. I was very clear about the piano. Anyone know what to do with a truckload of bricks?
Pat Mallinson contacted Bob Pawell yesterday and he quickly agreed to come down and do some sort of closing liturgy. It is scheduled for Sept. 14th, a Saturday probably at 4:15. Any chance of joining us? Bob said he will take a look at what's left and decide what to do. If there is anything in particular I can set apart and tag with your names, please let me know. A few of Ed's things are marked and I understand the icons are to be returned. Bob is contacting the Smiths in regard to the stained glass window. They would like it returned. So just let me know and I will try to carry through. We need to be finished by September 30th when Margaret leaves. I know you all have made a break once. Seeing that it will no longer be a place of ministry may make you want some things you left behind. You have been very generous in the years since your departure. Easter has not been the same since we last saw you Ralph. Marcy and Margaret are aware of the plans and are ok and supportive of them. It seems to me there are a ton of decorative items in the attic, but I haven't begun to look up there. Too hot for me!
I am still very sad about Ann's situation. The Tau diaspora now clearly understands why things happened as they did these last two years. We keep all of you who have led us through the years in our prayers. So many blessed memories.
In peace,
In peace,
Billy
New Orleans, LA
