Surrender to Jesus

This week I want to provide a status report on my medical situation and progress.  Last December through January I underwent two operations which addressed hernia repair, which were to be followed by shoulder replacement surgery.  My doctors and I made the decision to delay this surgery until the seasons of Lent, Easter, Confirmations, a June family reunion and USCCB national meeting were completed.  Thankfully, three weeks ago the shoulder replacement surgery was done (left shoulder, new ball and socket).  The surgery was successful, and I am on the mend. 

The processes of in-home therapy have also just been completed.  Next week I will begin out-patient therapy at a local clinic.   For some weeks to come I will wear a shoulder/arm sling and be limited in my travel.  Our CPC staff has stepped up wonderfully to keep me informed and work through this situation, and I am able to go to the office for several hours periodically during the week.  For the past three weeks physical therapy, exercise and icing of the shoulder has taken about 5-6 hours per day.  This has been productive, and I am hopeful of the outcome. 

"The surgery was successful, and I am on the mend." 

The full recovery for this type of shoulder surgery is typically 6 months.  However, I will be out and about, as directed by my doctors, much sooner.  My left shoulder has needed attention for many years, and I am no longer experiencing the pain as before the surgery.  Please know that I am grateful to get this done and appreciate your prayers and support.  The summer season was the right time for this; however, I am aware of the many needs throughout the diocese and working with God, who is working with us to “take care of everything.” 

As you may have heard me preach throughout the Confirmation season, I have discovered and rely daily on the Surrender Novena.  Along with my daily prayers, I have been leaning into this brief but powerful daily reflection months before this process of healing began.  This is my little, but powerful, offering to you, which has spiritually built me through this time.  Find the Surrender Novena and put it into your prayer toolbox.  You can access it through the Hallow app on your cellphone or order it online.  At some point in the near future, when I am at fuller capacity, we will find a way to deploy it throughout the diocese.  It is a powerful devotion, calling us to trust in Jesus in ways we would not imagine on our own.  It is a deeper dive into the loving hands of Our Lord on a most personal level.  You will find a sense of peace, comfort, strength and new confidence.  Surrender to Jesus.  He will take care of everything. 

"Surrender to Jesus.  He will take care of everything."

This has been a busy time, and I pray for all of you.  May Our Lord bless your summer and be with your families.  I look forward to seeing you soon, healthy and whole.  Surrender to Jesus.  He will take care of it!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+Most Reverend Stephen J. Berg

Bishop of Pueblo