LOVE OF BAGHDAD

My experience in Baghdad was totally good-to the point that, when I went back to Weston to study theology, I knew I was going to go back to Baghdad. Many others were wondering throughout their second, third, and even fourth years at Weston just where they were going to go after theology. Without Arabic they realized they would not be able to do as good a job teaching in Iraq as they could in an all-English environment, such as the U.S. or Jamaica. But I had no such question. I wanted, without reservation, to go back to Baghdad.

HOSPITAL CHAPLAIN

Boston City Hospital was a great place to be. I liked it a lot. At the same time, it was in chaos. People came there from everywhere. In the beginning I found it very difficult, partly because there were many Hispanics and I didn't speak Spanish. That made it difficult for both them and me. But I was very close to the medical and nursing staff.

GOD'S PROVIDENCE

The experience of the Middle East was an experience of God's providence. It was the highlight of my life. Also I'm grateful that in Baghdad I was able to be a firm, excellent teacher. Students had a good rapport with me, and I had a good rapport with the Jesuits there. Over there in Baghdad, there was a whole different spirit. Everyone was an active part of the team.

Due to death or sickness some of these selected readings have been read by someone other than the author. This page contains one such replacement.