Cup of Kindness

The pastoral duties of Monsignor John Lyons, at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish are coming to a close. I have worked alongside him for over a decade and I think his priestly life absolutely warranted the honor and title of Monsignor, recently bestowed on him by Pope Francis. His service to the Catholic Church, this Diocese and the parishes of Sts. Peter & Paul and St. Thomas the Apostle is more than noteworthy.

Prior to becoming a deacon and coming to work full-time for the Church, I spent three decades in the corporate world and was exposed to quite a few corporate leaders. Candidly, when it comes to wrapping one’s head around complex challenging situations, none were quicker than Monsignor John at getting a handle on what was causing the challenge and determining a sound response.

Monsignor John is not only extremely gifted as an administrative leader, but functions at a high level pastorally. Even though he minimizes it, he is big-hearted, merciful and approaches life with a half-full, not half-empty mentality. What also stands out to me is his humility. He is comfortable in his own skin and wasn’t threatened when others brought creative and meaningful ideas to the table. Although he always had a pulse on what was happening around him, he was secure and smart enough not to micromanage. He wanted to know the big picture, but left plenty of room for one to utilize their gifts too. He deflects attention away from himself and easily gives credit to everyone else. When complimented, he is quick to point to others and or tell you how others have helped him along the way. He remembers them all.

Monsignor is quick-witted and has a good sense of humor. No one is better at utilizing sports analogies in getting a point across. He is extremely candid and forthright. His 'yes' means 'yes' and his 'no' means 'no'. I believe his love of and devotion to Mary has impacted his priestly vocation in a powerful way. I sense his daily rosary walks with her have helped him to model her humility and devotion to Jesus. As an Ordained Deacon to this Diocese, I have been blessed to be assigned to St. Thomas the Apostle Parish and his pastoral leadership. He is a pastor who comprehends the Ordained role of a deacon. He earnestly values the servant role a deacon is called to perform and he has supported me in fulfilling the deacon role of service.

Goodbyes are hard for most of us. I guess in part because it’s our hope not to be separated from those we love. But partings are an integral part of our life and are unavoidable. So, let me say, I deeply appreciate the years we had together. It is with great fondness I will remember those years. I wish Monsignor John many blessed and joyous times in his retirement years - well done!

Monsignor always left us with a meaningful message in his homilies. I recall one where his message had to do with correcting someone. The message was, if it gives you great joy to tell another something they’re doing wrong in their life, then you don’t really love them, and you’re not the one to be telling them. I think this message applies to goodbye’s as well.

Thank you, Monsignor, for everything — We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet for auld lang syne.