A true mentor

Archbishop Fabre Farewell

Guest Columnist

Deacon Jesse Watley

On Feb. 26, 2007, I reported for my first day on the job as the executive director of Pastoral Services for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. That was an exciting time for me and an exciting time for the archdiocese, as well, for in the weeks before we had been informed that we were getting a new auxiliary bishop, the soon to be ordained Shelton J. Fabre. In fact, his episcopal ordination was scheduled for Feb. 28, 2007.

Since my ordination to the diaconate in 1996, I have always had a parish assignment and an archdiocesan assignment, as well. My archdiocesan assignment is to serve as a liturgical master of ceremonies (MC) at confirmations, and other large liturgical celebrations at which the archbishop or one of the auxiliary bishops preside. As fate would have it, I was assigned as one of the MCs to serve at Bishop Fabre’s ordination, and I was to be the MC to the ordinand. That is how I came to meet then Father Shelton Fabre, soon to be Bishop Fabre, and now Archbishop Fabre.

After his episcopal ordination, Bishop Fabre was named vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. When he assumed those roles he became my immediate supervisor at the chancery. It was in those days that I learned so much about him. It soon became obvious to me that he was a very knowledgeable and kind man. Whenever I needed to go to him for advice or guidance for an archdiocesan issue that I had to deal with, he was always willing to take the time to explain not only what needed to be done but why it needed to be done, as well. His approach was always very pastoral and his broad knowledge of a vast array of topics amazed me. He taught me so much and never in a way that was condescending or that would in any way make me feel that I was a bother to him. I found that in that way I wasn’t “special” because he treated everyone in that way.

While he was always kind, I soon learned that it would be a mistake to mistake his kindness for weakness. When he needed to be, he could be very firm and hold one’s feet to the fire. In many ways he reminds me of Jesus’ cleansing of the temple. Gentle, kind, loving, but tough when the situation demanded it.

As time went on I found myself seeking his guidance and advice on things not related to our work in the chancery. I would often seek him out for advice on speeches or homilies that I was working on. He is a man who chooses his words wisely and carefully. In time he became for me an unofficial spiritual advisor and mentor. To this day I miss my times in his office sitting in what came to be known between us as the “disciple’s chair.”

I’ve seen him work in tough situations to bring calmness and peace where tension and stress previously existed. He is a bridge-builder and whenever possible helps parties on opposite sides of an issue work toward compromises in which they both gain more than they give up.

I will always treasure the times that I was able to work closely with him. I will always treasure the guidance and mentoring that he has provided in my personal, professional and spiritual life. I will always treasure him as a devoted friend. While I’m sure his new duties as the Archbishop of Louisville will keep him very busy, I look forward to any times that I will have to sit again in the “disciple’s chair,” even if I have to do so virtually. (Deacon Jesse Watley is the executive director for the Corpus Christi-Epiphany Community Resource Center in New Orleans. He is also still one of the deacons who serves as liturgical MC for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.) BC

What an honor it has been to journey with you, Archbishop Fabre, the last 8-1/2 years. We wish you love, peace and hope as you transition to your new assignment as Archbishop of Louisville. Our prayers shall follow you always! Forever in our hearts ... the Office of Technology Services