One of the elements that God the Holy Spirit used in my vocational calling to the priesthood is the presence of priests in our home while growing up.
One such priest was Father Christopher Belber, an Augustinian priest from Spain who was a pastor of Holy Ghost Parish in Omaha and later Most Holy Crucifix Parish in New York City (now known as Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz). He was at first friends with my maternal grandparents, and then my parents. I often remember his intense love for the poor, especially for those who lived on the streets of New York.
I distinctly remember the first time he prepared paella (a dish that originated in Valencia, Spain) in our home 40 years ago. I have been making it ever since — sometimes as an auction item.
On Saturday, June 28th Catholic Social Services held its ‘first annual’ St. Francis Summer’s Eve Celebration at the Whiskey Run Creek Winery located in Brownville. This was an event benefitting our St. Francis Center in Auburn, which helps individuals and families that live in the southeastern region of our diocese. One of the silent auction items at this event was a gourmet paella dinner to be prepared at the home of the winning bidder. It was purchased by Gregg and Eva Fujan.
After arriving at their beautiful home on a lake near North Bend, I discovered we would be celebrating their daughter Valerie’s birthday. They were joined by Valerie’s husband, Clinton Whiteley, Connor, Lea and McKenzie Fujan, and Marlene and James Fujan (the grandparents). I have offered this meal before, but never have I prepared it for individuals dressed like native Valencians!
I had a wonderful time preparing the multi-course dinner complete with a Rioja Wine from Spain called Ergo. Remember what St. Paul said to Timothy: “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments” (1 Tim 5:23). Notice the word ‘little’!” After much storytelling, I thanked them for their generosity and for one of the Spanish hats (given to me as a remembrance our marvelous time together). Who knows, I might wear it the next time I prepare Paella de Valencia!
