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Father Chris BugnoOur Parish PriestI understand that these Faith stories are supposed to represent family members, and I firmly believe this one does. Though not a blood relative, he has much in common with our ancestors: They are both hard working, devoted, fun loving immigrants who live their faith daily. Of course, I’m referring to Father Chris Bugno.From the first sermon he preached at Sacred Heart Catholic Church to the first time the community personally met him at Arthur and Erlene Goertz’s Welcoming Party, held in his honor, we knew there was something special about his ability to spread the “Good News”. This was strongly reaffirmed when he led a group of our Parish youth and their chaperones on a Pilgrimage to Germany / Austria / Italy. He led us in Daily Mass, evening songfests, and lectures on historic and holy sites we visited. He even accepted the youths’ challenge to an evening Soccer match, in which he proved that a career with the Lord was a better choice than a career in Professional Soccer. But the most amazing event of the Pilgrimage occurred in Florence, Italy during our Evening Mass. Rain had begun to fall outside the Chapel, and Father Chris had just finished another inspiring message, when he began to consecrate and bless the bread. At the exact moment that he raised the host and said, “Do this in memory of Me”, a bolt of Lightning and round of Thunder shook the entire building! Everyone in attendance looked at each other, some with smiles, others with concern, but Father Chris acted as if he didn’t even notice. He continued on, blessing the water and wine, and again, as he raised the Chalice and said “Do this in memory of Me” another round of Thunder and Lightning was felt throughout the Chapel! Now there was definitely excitement among all in attendance! I even recollect Father Chris having a slight smile, almost as if to absorb and appreciate the moment even more. All joined in partaking of Communion, and after Mass, something occurred to all of us....the only two rounds of Thunder and Lightning heard during the entire Mass happened at the exact moment that Fr. Chris was consecrating the Body and Blood of Christ. It was definitely the most powerful moment of the Pilgrimage, and it dominated the conversations for the rest of our trip. This is just one of the many unique experiences that we’ve had the opportunity to share with Fr. Chris. He always leaves you feeling better than you did before greeting him. We are truly blessed to call him our “Shepherd”, friend, and Family member in our Faith community. |
