September 16, 2009

Chalice’s cup reflects the congregation; its oak base the foundation of priest’s family

By Father Ken Koehler

The year prior to my ordination to the priesthood, I still had not been able to make any plans for a chalice. 

I knew that I was limited on funds.  My family of nine siblings plus my parents barely made ends meet in the first place.  After prayer and trusting in God’s ways it occurred to me that it did not have to be expensive. 

Catholic goods store owner John Erger helped me find a very inexpensive gold-plated cup.  We had to do something for a base.  When I was home on break from the seminary, I asked my father if he could make a base.  He was a carpenter and loved to make an assortment of things from wood.  He agreed. 

He spent time finding a piece of oak that was not cracked and which was dried adequately so that it would not crack later.  He worked hard and actually burned up many knives on the lathe because of the hardness of the wood.  Finally, he finished his work.  

I have had this chalice for 37 years. It is not ornate but reflects the beauty of the people who surround it at each Mass.  I am privileged to have this gift of the heart from my parents and family who supported my journey on the way to ordination. 

The base reflects the strong foundation of my family that has not faded in any way.  The cup is big enough for a large family.  It contains the style of our lives: there is always just enough but never too much.  Everyone is welcome.

Father Ken Koehler is pastor of St. Mark Church in Westminster.