Journal entry by Paul Koetter —
Friends, it has been ages since I have updated. Know that I make more entries on my blog which can be found through holyspirit-indy.org.
On July 1st, I retired as pastor of Holy Spirit but was granted permission to continue to live here at the parish. I share a lakehouse with Fr. Pat Beidelman and I spend about 3 days a week there. I continue to see people for private appointments and work with a couple ministries in the parish. I am also preaching once a month.
As a result of the ALS I have lost my speech completely. The preaching is done through a voice system that uses my own voice. I type the homily, download it into the program and then project it through the church sound system. I am at the pulpit offering gestures. It works amazingly well. Available through Youtube.
My symptoms remain mostly with my mouth. I cannot speak and swallowing is more of a challenge. A feeding tube was added in June of this year and I use it for about two thirds of my intake. It is very easy to use and it removes the stress in trying to eat enough to maintain my weight. Since July my weight has stayed even, though I have lost about 15 pounds this past year.
I am still moving pretty well. Some weakness in my legs, but still walking fine and my hands are doing fine. I think the prayers of so many people are helping to sustain me.
Spiritually it has been hard, just facing the reality of the ALS. I draw a lot of strength from God's Presence, believing that he will carry me. The love and support of so many has been humbling and enriching. God is good...all the time! Your prayers mean a lot to me.
Blessings,
Fr. Paul
On July 1st, I retired as pastor of Holy Spirit but was granted permission to continue to live here at the parish. I share a lakehouse with Fr. Pat Beidelman and I spend about 3 days a week there. I continue to see people for private appointments and work with a couple ministries in the parish. I am also preaching once a month.
As a result of the ALS I have lost my speech completely. The preaching is done through a voice system that uses my own voice. I type the homily, download it into the program and then project it through the church sound system. I am at the pulpit offering gestures. It works amazingly well. Available through Youtube.
My symptoms remain mostly with my mouth. I cannot speak and swallowing is more of a challenge. A feeding tube was added in June of this year and I use it for about two thirds of my intake. It is very easy to use and it removes the stress in trying to eat enough to maintain my weight. Since July my weight has stayed even, though I have lost about 15 pounds this past year.
I am still moving pretty well. Some weakness in my legs, but still walking fine and my hands are doing fine. I think the prayers of so many people are helping to sustain me.
Spiritually it has been hard, just facing the reality of the ALS. I draw a lot of strength from God's Presence, believing that he will carry me. The love and support of so many has been humbling and enriching. God is good...all the time! Your prayers mean a lot to me.
Blessings,
Fr. Paul
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