The Calling

Good News (Chapter 10)

     As the sun began to rise next morning, James had finished visiting all the patients. Their families also seemed at ease and many were leaving the hospital fully recovered from their injuries. He then made his way down to the bus station to head back to Drumaness for the morning service.

Suddenly, Elizabeth called out to him. ‘Father James!’ she exclaimed. ‘Yes Elizabeth?’ James enquired. ‘Doctor Dictus just received the results from Cathleen’s test last night’ she said. ‘And?’ James asked. ‘He said that her condition wasn’t as bad as they previously thought and she could leave the hospital in a week’s time’ she said with excitement. ‘How great is God!’ James said with a smile. Elizabeth thanked him and waved goodbye as he entered the bus. Upon reaching the village, James headed to the church and began the morning mass which was running behind schedule; although the congregation was happy to see him. After the service ended, James headed home. He planned to visit the hospital later in the evening after he completed the second service of the day. He surely did feel the pressure of being the only priest in Drumaness. Without proper rest and food, he felt tired and uneasy. Now that he had time to himself, he hoped to catch some sleep. Just then, the telephone rang. He expected someone from the hospital again.

‘Father James?’ said the voice. James immediately knew it was Thomas. ‘Yes Father Thomas. How are you?’ ‘I’m alright but since hearing of the accident, I’ve sought permission from the bishop to return home’ he said. ‘That’s wonderful’ James said. ‘I really need someone to help out here’ he continued. ‘And James’ Thomas said, ‘There is one more thing’ ‘What is it?’ asked James. ‘You will know this evening’ Thomas said and hung up. James didn’t know what to expect. ‘How worse could it be?’ he thought to himself. He was glad Thomas was coming back anyway.

After a long rest, James woke up. Being 4’o clock, he heard the city bus approaching. Few moments later, Thomas entered. They greeted each other and sat down on the couch. ‘James’ Thomas said in a deep voice. ‘Yes, what is it? I’ve been waiting to know’ James said. ‘This is a letter from the bishop. It’s for you’ he said as he handed over a large postcard to James. James opened it and read aloud:

“Due to your continuous and unfailing dedication to the village of Drumaness, I have authorized you to be transferred to another parish where you can be of greater service to the people. I do hope you continue your good work and dedication to the church. You will be transferred to Doncaster, South Yorkshire with immediate effect.”

With a grin, James left the house and prepared himself for the last service he would celebrate in Drumaness.