Dennis Yohnka: Teenage goof-off finds redemption

A beautiful moment missed. A slacker redeemed. And a column in the making.

Those were the conclusions reached after Sunday’s experience. It all began innocently when I decided to take my granddaughter, a recent First Communicant, to the church where I made my First Communion.

Trust me. This is not going to be a deeply religious chapter. If you’re afraid of a sermon, I assure you it’s safe to read on.

So, Ruthie and I took the convertible to Chebanse, to Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church. The wind restyled her hair, but she didn’t mind. Once inside, she quickly needed a bathroom break. Moments later, she surprised me with her full gulp of sacramental wine.

“It tastes a little better here,” she whispered.

Meanwhile, from the altar, the Rev. Vern Arseneau announced that the rite of confirmation would be held Wednesday. Then he told the story of surprise that parishioner Rod Burch staged.