Courtney's illness and struggle I will leave for others to describe in other places. I simply wish to honor her here with the acknowledgement that yes, as a wife of one of our hard working candidates, she indeed is a member of our Deacon family. Our entire diaconate community stands in solidarity and support with Leon and Jude, Anna and Gabriel; praying for solace and comfort in the face of sorrow.
I was personally thrilled to have learned that Courtney was so devoted to the intercessory ministry of Blessed Father Francis Xavier Seelos. In so many ways, her story was so similar to Angela Boudreaux, the healed Westbank mother whose miraculous healing was confirmed by the Vatican to elevate Seelos to a Blessed. Courtney was a tireless advocate on behalf of bringing others to Seelos and her support of the Shrine here in New Orleans.
I met Courtney when Leon and her arrived at the inquiry stage of the diaconate process. She was so supportive of Leon's stirrings of the possibility of a vocation. And she was so open and honest in sharing appropriately with the diaconate formation leaders of her story, including her battle with cancer. Courageous and beautiful; full of life and love and faith.
If you could visit her facebook wall, you would see an outpouring from family and friends that would simply blow you away. In just the short time she was with us on this earth, she touched lives, she brought them to faith and prayer. Yes, even in her passing, God intends great good.
I am so, so very sorry for the deep intimate personal loss her loved ones, especially Leon and the children will endure, but I know too that Courtney's faith & love will strengthen them.
Always a good day when I get to visit my friend — at Blessed Francis Seelos Shrine.
Courtney Schexnayder Guidry, rest in peace. May her soul, and the soul of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
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