Bishop's letter

Dear Friends in Christ,

All good greetings in the Lord with the prayerful hope that, as you receive this magazine, we might all be breathing a bit easier, seeing the “light at the end of the tunnel ” of the COVID-19 pandemic and together supporting one another as we re-engage in the joyful practice of our Catholic faith and reconnect with our family members, friends and fellow parishioners.

In this fourth edition of “Graceful Living,” you’ll find a range of faithfilled stories from throughout the 19 counties that make up our diocese. Read about our cover story couple Darrell and Norma Jean Jackson who met while in the choir in school and how “saying yes” led to an amazing faith journey. Meet Hayden Eighinger, who shares a unique look at the life of a seminarian at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Cincinnati. Learn about the inspiring story of Father Michael Dandurand who complements his vocation to the priesthood with a call to serve our men and women in uniform. Share “Coach Carol’s Calling,” featuring a Catholic Youth Organization director who turned her love of sports into a family program that helps kids develop lifelong skills.

Hope you know how much I missed being with the members of the flock throughout the past year, and how excited I am once again to travel the diocese to be with you, pray with you and encourage you in the faith. Speaking of travel, this edition’s travel feature focuses on someone you might know! At the encouragement of our Communications team, I agreed to offer a few reflections on my years living, serving and working in Rome. It was a joy calling to mind those years, hope you enjoy reliving them with me!

I do trust you will appreciate this issue of “Graceful Living” and will be inspired by the stories in these pages and pass the word on to others. As we continue to fulfill this magazine’s mission of “exploring, enriching and celebrating” lives of faith, we hope you’ll send our way any recommendations for future editions.

With gratitude to you and to all our readers for your interest and support, and with every good wish and prayer, I am

Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus,

Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas, Bishop of Toledo