CSSS

As in previous years, this year's Chapter Meeting and Retreat continued to demand a good dose of economic reality. The geographical area of our membership is growing and with that pleasant situation comes the necessity to plan our annual Chapter in accessible locations. Coupled with that need is the desire of many to have our Community meet within the confines of a compatible and hospitable residential religious community; the structure provided in such a situation allows us to more easily concentrate on spiritual as well as temporal matters. Cincinnati and Peekskill have been good choices.

This year we faced the high cost of airfares to Cincinnati by renting a van for a group of us. As a person who drives distances every day, I dreaded the round-trip ride (even though I was reminded that the total time driving would be no greater than that spent getting to and from airports, waiting in airport terminals and the actual flight time). I was hesitant, but I was wrong. Granted, people had mercy on this weary driver and we were blessed by the Father Master's willingness to take the wheel; but we had a delightful fun filled ride. The ride was a reaffirmation that while we come in different sizes and shapes, with different backgrounds and ministries, we Companions and Associates are amazingly like-minded. There is really very little reason to feel isolated or lonely in this changing world and Church. The CSSS presents a viable and constructive outlet for many. Perhaps you would benefit from being listed among our number; Companion or Associate.

The moral to this story is exactly like the moral to many other stories; sometimes we are our own worst enemy, the devil and economic reality not withstanding.

THH,Jr.+ ACSSS, coeditor