Tom Greerty

I hadn't considered the hike up Mt. Wanda until my wife said she was going; so, I decided to go. Now, I’m a lucky man. It took our group an hour to climb up the trail to the top which is about a mile long and a 600' elevation; and, to see sights so magnificent that there are very few comparisons. Why did it take an hour? Well, we did the Stations of the Cross along the way up. Nothing prepares the soul for Easter like the Stations of the Cross. Up we went with a wooden cross that was shared amongst us, stopping here and there 14 times to share the story of our Lord's Passion.
 
Because of recent rainstorms, the trail was muddy in spots which actually helped us to better appreciate Our Lord's passion and suffering because some of us were slipping and falling just like Jesus did. I almost went down several times, but others saved me, including Fr. Anthony. And, someone did fall down three times! Happily, we all made it safely to the top. What a view! What beauty to behold: the valley oaks, the green hills, the amazing vistas of open space, old Martinez, the delta, and the Carquinez strait!
 
After sharing reflections on what we had just experienced, we prepared for Mass. The entire event was so beautiful. I especially appreciated the reflections and enthusiasm expressed by the many young adults who participated. During the Mass, Fr. Anthony consecrated all of Martinez and our beautiful St. Catherine's to Almighty God. My deepest gratitude to Fr. Anthony and the young adult group for this most spiritually enriching experience. Hopefully, this will become an annual event.