Jubilarian – Fr. Chris Buda, CR
- 50th Anniversary of Ordination: May 31, 1975
This year the Congregation of the Resurrection in Canada is blessed to be celebrating three Jubilarians! Today we would like to share a reflection by Fr. Chris Buda, CR, who is celebrating 50 years of priestly ordination.
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour!”
I believe there is no better way to express my thanksgiving to Almighty God and his Son Jesus Christ for countless gifts and graces in my 50 ears of priesthood.
When I was asked to share my religious and priestly life with you, I thought that it was an impossible task. So, I have chosen three times of my life to focus on.
When I first arrived in Canada, in September 1983, I encountered Fr. Fred Scinto, CR. It was for me a tremendous blessing. Fr. Fred said many times, “Chris, if you want to succeed as a man, religious, and priest, you have to immerse yourself into the Canadian church and Canadian society.” I attended English classes at Mohawk College for eight months, seven hours a day. After this intensive course I was sent to Toronto for to the International School of Languages (Berlitz). Fr. Fred, thank you for your patience, generosity and kindness. Rest in peace.
From here let me take you to St. Mary, Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows Parish in Kitchener. It was for me, eight years of the best priestly experience. If you have ever attended liturgy at St. Mary’s you know what I mean. Every celebration I participated in was with beautiful music, the best choir, and liturgy that many a time moved me to tears of joy. Thank you to the parish staff and many volunteers!
Finally, God loves surprises! In 2005 he sent me to Rome for six years. New experiences, being immersed in the history of our Congregation and the Church; I loved every moment. I was able to travel with the Superior General as his translator and also help him with general visitations. I visited all the members of the Polish Province scattered across Europe. I saw their dedication, love and generosity for the People of God.
As I look back on 50 years of priesthood, let me say thank you to my family, parents and siblings, to my brother Resurrectionists, and countless friends and benefactors, for your prayers, support, gifts, and delicious pastries. May the good Lord and his Son Jesus Christ bless you and love you. Let me say, quoting the Servant of God, Fr. Pawel Smolikowski, CR, “God bless you all.”
