By Mary Grieco
Catholic Herald correspondent

Powell marks 50 years as priest

TOMAHAWK -- It doesn't often happen that a priest receives a standing ovation after a homily. But that was the response of the large crowd who heard Fr. Edward Powell reflect on the meaning of priesthood during a Pentecost Mass of Thanksgiving commemorating his golden jubilee of ordination.

"What a glorious life," he said, after enumerating the many ways a priest is privileged to serve God and his people.

"In short, a priest is to help men and women see Jesus," he said.

"Hopefully that is what I have done. In my weakness, perhaps I have not always done it well, but I have always tried."

Judging from the many gifts and heart-felt testimonials following the Mass at St. Mary Church, it is obvious that Powell has indeed "done it well." Everyone who spoke thanked him for his dedication and his years of unselfish service. And his ministry continues.

Although he officially retired at the end of 1993, he is still a very visible presence. Powell puts on many miles as he regularly says Mass at St. Mary and its three cluster parishes and frequently presides at funerals, weddings and baptisms. He also helps at the local hospital and at nursing and retirement homes. "This is just what I do," he said. "So far I haven't given in."

As a young seminarian, Powell decided to pursue a rural ministry rather than stay in his native Chicago, and he requested permission to serve the Diocese of Superior. On May 22, 1954, he was ordained by Bishop Joseph Annabring.

For the past 36 years he has ministered in Lincoln County. "I have grown up with the community," said Powell, noting that he has baptized the children of children he once baptized. "That is very satisfying."

Powell said he particularly has enjoyed working with children. "The schools have always been dear to my heart," he commented.

Both young and old attended Powell's jubilee Mass. The celebration was enhanced with a more than 30-voice choir and participation by the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, of which Powell is a member. Also in attendance were his sister, Mary Ann Hannon, and her family, who brought their best wishes to "Uncle Ed."

It was appropriate that Powell's jubilee be observed in Tomahawk, as it was there that he celebrated his first Mass in the chapel of Sacred Heart Hospital and where he was pastor of St. Mary Church for 18 years. All of the parishes in which he served throughout the years were represented in an entrance procession of banners.

At the conclusion of Mass, Powell was surprised when he and the congregation were asked to be seated to watch a video. Unbeknown to him, family and friends had put together photos and commentary of his life. It highlighted his childhood, his years of study at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein, Ill., and his years of parish ministry, as well as his involvement in health care as a founding board member of the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation.

In concluding comments, Michele Rein, director of two cluster parishes, addressed the jubilarian: "Kindness and understanding are precious gifts that you have brought to the people. You know we are struggling pilgrims on a journey. Thank you for who you are and how you have been the face of Christ to all of us."

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© Superior Catholic Herald, 2004