Fr John Mace (WIS), Regional Superior of East Timor, wrote on March 7, "I returned to the Jesuit Community of Creighton University after lunch today (Friday, March 6).

The operation took about one and one half hours on Monday morning, beginning at 7:30. I remember being rolled into the operating room. And then suddenly I heard nurses asking me how I felt. It was all over.

Amazing that the nurses had me stand up that very afternoon.

The following day (Tuesday) I walked with the help of a walker for about 20 meters in the hall. Every day the length has increased. Thanks be to God and your prayers, I have no pain — only discomfort when I get up to walk. So I took medicine for pain only the day of the operation. I had expected much more serious pain.

I have been given a set of exercises to do every day. They are a bit difficult, but I’m told that fidelity to them will result in being able to walk like I used to after about six weeks.

I want to thank you all for your prayers and encouraging e-mails."