Community for the Kingdom

            Recently I had the wonderful experience of attending a “Walk Out” ceremony for a good friend who retired from the Chicago Fire Department. Together with his family and friends on hand to mark the special occasion, a couple hundred firefighters gathered early on a gorgeous June morning.  As the sun shined brightly, they lined up to form an honor guard.  The chief walked out of the firehouse one last time, accompanied by bagpipers (also firefighters) through an arch formed by extended engine ladders flying a huge American flag. After slowly passing the long line of saluting firefighters, doing his best to hold his emotions in check, he offered heartfelt thanks to his colleagues. As I watched the event unfold and as he spoke with deep appreciation to those gathered, it occurred to me that if C4K had a secular counterpart, it was on display that day. 
            As a chief, he oversaw firehouses staffed by small groups of firefighters – communities within the larger community - throughout a district in the city.  He fondly spoke of the rapport among the firefighters and the deep bonds among those gathered  - including many who became his lifelong friends.  These relationships, in the midst of their vocation as firefighters and a commitment to service, were based on trust, support and friendship especially within each firehouse.  As the many houses came together that morning, it was truly impressive to see their respect for upholding the ideals of the Chicago Fire Department as well as their camaraderie with each other. 
            As firefighters, their schedules require them to spend long shifts together, giving them opportunities to share on a deeper level similar to the reflection and discussion in C4K groups.  Firefighters can face daunting challenges and stressful situations, but the support of colleagues who sustain each other in difficult times and celebrate each other in good times makes all the difference not only for individuals, but for the community in which they serve.  As much as he will miss being a fire chief, I’m sure he’s grateful that the friendships he made over 41 years with the Chicago Fire Department, are relationships that will continue throughout his retirement.
            Likewise, those involved in C4K can count on authentic friendships that grow based on a love for Christ and his Gospel, a commitment to serving God’s people and a desire to build up the Body of Christ here at St. Joseph Parish. 


Fr. John Trout