That’s Father Tim Power, retired pastor of Pax Christi Catholic Community here in Eden Prairie. Father Tim was our guest speaker today at the monthly membership luncheon of the Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce. Today’s luncheon was held at Bearpath Golf & Country Club.
I put Father Tim under the title of “True Friend of Blue and Red” because that describes an important aspect of the City’s relationship with Father Tim. Father Tim is a chaplain for both our Police Department and our Fire Department. He responds to Police and Fire calls when there might be a need for special attention to a crime or fire victim, or for one of our police officers or fire fighters.
Father Tim knows exactly what to do and what to say when the chips are down; day or night; week day or weekend. He is the consummate professional. He and the other chaplains are really important to addressing the human emotional needs that are present any time that a crime or a fire disturbs someone’s personal equilibrium.
I had the honor of sitting with Father Tim at the head table at today’s luncheon. Here’s a shot of Father Tim talking to former Eden Prairie City Councilmember Patricia Pidcock. Patricia’s company, Edina Realty, sponsored today’s luncheon.
The subject of Father Tim’s speech at today’s luncheon was his pilgrimage to Santiago, Spain called The Ways of St. James. It is a 500 mile pilgrimage from St. Jean, France to Santiago, Spain. Father Tim walked it. He walked 500 miles. Here’s a map showing the pilgrimage trail. Father Tim walked the route marked in orange.
He discussed the trials and tribulations that occur in a 500 mile walk. He told us about the fellow travelers he met along the way and gave us insights about what makes one go on a 500 mile walking pilgrimage. It was interesting and inspiring.
Father Tim is a great man. We are very lucky to have him as an active member of our community.
