by Fr. Hilary Conti, O.S.B.

     This is a good time to look back and see the finger of God in my life as a priest.  I was born on a farm in a small town in Italy, and I expected to be a farmer like everyone else in my family.  It is due to my father who suggested to me that I go to the monastery for a "easier life". I was hesitant, but finally accepted it.  After two years, life there became intolerable. I had lost my freedom  I had to obey not only the superior but also the sound of a bell. So I decided to go back to the farm.

     I was anxiously waiting for the day of departure to regain my freedom.  One day at table we were eating soup in silence.  Thinking of the intolerable obedience, I shed tears, and some drops fell in the soup.  That day I ate soup mixed with tears of frustration.  Two days after, God came to my rescue.  He gave me a candy, to be more precise, He gave me an appreciation for prayer.  That was enough to change my attitude.  Obedience was no longer intolerable.

     God has been close to me during the years of my school education.  I was ordained at St. Scholastica parish in Detroit, together with Fr. Theo Gregori, O.S.B., on October 28th, 1950. My family was not present because they were far away in Italy. But the Blessed Mother, Mary, was close to me.  Since that day She took hold of me by the hand, some times even by the ears, to make sure I would not get mixed up.  During the 50 years I enjoyed many spiritual consolations, especially here at Holy Face Monastery in Clifton, N.J. I missed the loving company of a woman, of a family.  But in compensation I found deep and intimate spiritual companionship with the persons who kept me company during my pilgrimage of love to God.

     I have no words to express my gratitude to God and the Blessed Mother.  On October 28th, I offered with my own hands in gratitude the Body and Blood of Christ present on the altar during the sacrifice of the Mass, saying: Father, I offer you this holy and living sacrifice... do not look upon me, a sinner, but look on the Face of Jesus, your Son, who has called me to serve you on the Altar for 50 years. Thank you, Father.
 
 

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