This morning at 8 a.m. Mass at St. Jane's in Abita Springs, I assisted Archbishop Philip Hannan. Now, I've served with him before, as an acolyte or one of several deacons on the altar. But today, I had the privilege and honor of assisting him throughout Mass.
For me, this is so special because I truly believe he is a living saint. Archbishop Hannan is about to turn 96 years young. He is remarkable!!! Hannan served New Orleans as Archbishop from 1965-1989 and helped us recover from Hurricane Betsy. He also was the Archbishop who started the Permanent Diaconate in New Orleans. Since his retirement he remains active, assisting where he can, establishing Focus Ministries, http://www.focustvonline.com/, and now serving the 8 a.m. Saturday mass every week at St. Jane's.
He served in WWII, was a paratrooper, the personal advisor to President John F. Kennedy, delivering the eulogy at his funeral, and is now the only living American Bishop who attended 2nd Vatican Council.
While many deacons may get to serve with him from time to time, I wish to acknowledge two who serve with him often and assist him in continuing his ministries: Deacon Rusty Read and Deacon Mark Coudrain.
Please join me in offering prayers for Archbishop Philip Hannan's continuing service to God and dedication and devotion to His Holy Catholic Church.
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