During the Christmas break, one of our seminarians, Joel Faulk, from the Diocese of Lafayette, had a heart transplant. Joel had cancer years ago which was treated with chemotherapy. The chemo affected and weakened the heart. Joel heroically and virtuously has endured much suffering giving witness to the seminary community. Within 9 days of the transplant, Joel returned to the seminary community. His story and experience is another way in which we understand the redemptive suffering of Jesus Christ and our participation in this suffering. The community prays for the repose of the soul of the donor of the heart and in thanksgiving to God for the life and vocation of Joel. May we all appreciate the gift of life and faith in this new year.
Joel’s story was covered by our local news channel
http://www.nds.edu/oversize_files/JoelHeartTransplant.mp4