I was saddened to learn of the fire that damaged the historic rectory at St. Anthony Shrine in Emmitsburg. I am grateful to the Lord that there was no loss of life. My thoughts and prayers are with the Institute of the Incarnate Word whose members serve at St. Anthony’s. I also extend my prayers to the parishioners of the Shrine of St. Anthony in this moment of loss. Let me express my deep gratitude as well to the Vigilant Hose Company, Frederick County Fire and Rescue, Rocky Ridge VFC, and all who assisted, for their swift response and for extinguishing the blaze.
