Via Basel: Father Tom Hurley

…Someone You Should Listen To…

We have all shared this experience. You come across something exciting, refreshing, and beautiful and before you even fully digest it you get the urge to share it and spread it to all in your domain. That is what I felt after listening to a podcast from Old St. Pat’s Church in downtown Chicago, that magically appeared on my smart phone 10 days ago. It happened to touch on several topics close and dear to me, being an example to others, being mindful, as well as being generous and kind. These subjects have been dealt with in many ways, in different formats by a multitude of wise messengers. What thrilled me was that I knew the author quite well and felt a certain satisfaction in being familiar with the context and background of his storytelling.

Fr. Tom is the pastor of Old St. Pat’s, a large thriving church in the heart of our metropolis and a magnet for many young Catholics yearning for authentic spirituality in their tradition. He also follows the example of past enlightened leaders in that parish. His roots are from the south side of Chicago which is where our connection started. I had the privilege of working with his father Dr. John Hurley at Little Company of Mary Hospital for 40 years. I got to know his large family and was honored to take care of their orthopedic issues. Dr. Hurley was the epitome of the old fashioned family doc, caring, compassionate and available at all times. His humility and humanity were his hallmarks but his sense of humor was legendary. These qualities were certainly passed on to the son.

It has been my pleasure to introduce Fr. Tom to my blog followers who haven’t met him before. Please listen and feast on this Advent reflection “An Imitation Contemplation,” whatever religion or denomination you follow and even if you don’t belong to any organized one.

May your holidays be filled with Peace and Wonder

Basel Al-Aswad, father of EIL founder Christopher Al-Aswad, is a yogi trapped in an Orthopedic Surgeon’s body. His loves in life include reading, hiking, enjoying nature, meditation, and spending time with his large Iraqi family, and now, retired, he will have more time for that. And for the next adventure.

Old St. Pat’s Podcast: An Imitation Contemplation–Fr. Tom Hurley 12.1.19