UPDATE
Sunday, December 20/'09 Father Allard successfully concelebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. He spoke his concelebrated portion of the Eucharistic Prayer very clearly that day.
He concelebrated the next scheduled Mass on Tuesday, December 22/'09 and a little earlier this evening ( December 24/'09) he successfully concelebrated the Christmas eve Mass at the Institute.
Our prayers appear to be an integral part of what is being accomplished because he is succeeding despite more than a few daunting difficulties. This evening while I was helping him vest for the Mass, I asked, “How many Christmases have we celebrated together ?.. 8 or 9 ?..” (one year he was in quarantine during Christmas). As I slid his paralyzed arm into the left sleeve of his alb I remarked, “Every Christmas we succeed, but it seems that every year your Cross becomes a little heavier.” Father Allard gave an acknowledging nod of the head and ,with a slight grin , replied , “Yeah”.
(*Note : I fell asleep at the switch here while writing the update *…:yawn:

:doh2:
so the next part of this update which began late Christmas eve, was written early Christmas morning)
I also had the privilege of having Father Allard hear my confession yesterday before we went down to the chapel to pray a rosary together. Another thing I find amazing is how he can sometimes appear a little confused due to the illness, yet any time he has heard my confession he is always very focused and always has good counsel to give.
Today we celebrate Christmas - the entire cause and end of why Father Allard became a priest.
God’s peace and blessings to all who are praying the intentions of this thread and to those who are dear to you.
Merry Christmas !
*What child is this, who, laid to rest
On Mary’s lap, is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary! *
Hail Mary, full of grace.
the Lord is with Thee.
Blessed art Thou amongst women
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb,
Jesus
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners now,
and at the hour of our death.
AMEN