Covington is an historic city in Georgia and is located thirty five miles east of Atlanta. It was here that I spent last weekend celebrating all the masses and preaching at the Church of St. Augustine. The people have become quite used to me since I have been there twice before, and they gave me a big, warm welcome again this time around. I was invited also to talk about my book: ‘What is this thing called Faith?’ to the congregation of St. Augustine on Saturday evening after the vigil mass. That was a nice touch.

The town of Covington has a picturesque, rectangular square that is bordered by historic antebellum buildings. It was spared by General Sherman during the civil war as he marched his union army through the town to the sea. As a result, this town square has been featured in many movies such as ‘ The heat of the night,’ and in many TV series such as ‘ The Dukes of Hazzard.’ I had dinner, while I was there, in the mystic grill which showcased ‘The Vampire Diaries.’

It was autumn weather while I was in Covington and the tree leaves were emitting a dazzling, golden hue. I was told that the weather is very changeable this time of year and could switch from the forties to the eighties in a matter of days. “That’s Georgia,” I heard people say. When I got there on Friday, the temperature was in the seventies, but on Sunday it plummeted to the forties. I brought warm clothes with me, and that was a welcome comfort.

The parish Church of St. Augustine is simple but attractive. I celebrated three masses in English and one in Spanish. The Pastor, Fr. Roberto Orellana, is a very personable and competent priest from Salvador. I noticed a big increase of attendees at the Spanish mass from last year. It had doubled in number, and the choir had improved considerably. It’s always a good sign when things are getting better. There was a good mix of young families and seniors at the weekend masses.

I enjoyed my weekend among the parishioners of St. Augustine in Covington. They were so anxious to show me around. My old guide, David, from past years, was in rehab in Madison after a knee operation. I was so happy to visit and spend time with him on Sunday afternoon at the hospital where he’s recuperating. He’s doing well and goes home on Friday. 

All’s well that ends well