A Personal Reflection from Fr. Brian:
My mother’s father’s side of my family was German, German Catholics, through and through, and also very strict German Catholics. On today, the feast of St. Boniface, Apostle to the German race, I reflect on my own German heritage.
My mother’s maiden name was Oberhausen, a very German name. In 1840, four Oberhausen brothers came to America from Germany to seek a better life. They journeyed down the Ohio River and settled on the banks of the river in what is now the state of Kentucky. They crossed the river and established themselves in southern Indiana as cabinetmakers. Southern Indiana became a kind of German enclave. In fact there is still a bank there called the German National Bank.
My ancestors from Germany were farmers as well. They were staunch Catholics and were known to walk miles to attend mass.
I think some of my own nature comes from my German bloodline. I like to be organized and get things done. It’s funny that my father’s side is 100% Italian, which is a little more laid back than my German side.
Let us pray today for the people of Germany as they celebrate St. Boniface Day!
Blessings, pono and pule!
Fr. Brian Guerrini, ss.cc.
Priest
Molokai