Michael Williams, OSSM

I am a devoted husband, a father of four daughters and one son, as well as a grandfather of two beautiful grandchildren, and another on the way! I was a Navy submariner for 12 years, and have been an Army civilian but retired New Year's Eve '18. I graduated magna cum laude from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies and a Psychology minor in Christian Counseling. I took some post-grad classes at Franciscan University in Theology. I love to study Scripture and Catechism. I volunteer at my loving parish, St. Henry, and I am a member of the Secular Order of the Servants of Mary (O.S.S.M.) based out of the beautiful National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother ("The Grotto").

I love to travel abroad and try international cuisine; and travel at home, too - never underestimate the value of a 'stay-cation'! This year, I went on a pilgrimage on the Way of Saint James - the Camino. I traveled Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. I walked over 1,700 km along the Pyrenees in France, the Camino Frances across Spain, and the Portuguese Litoral Way. I tried exciting foods, saw incredible sights, and best of all met the most loving and giving people you could imagine. I recommend everyone give being a pilgrim a try!

I enjoy cooking, walking, reading, writing poetry, beachcombing, snowboarding, and learning new things. This year, I decided to learn how to fly fish.

When I can, I enjoy reflecting on my blog, Walking to Hug Point on WordPress. Sometimes - most times - I share thoughts from attending Mass; spiritual thoughts, societal thoughts. And some thoughts that just need to be talked about. I look forward to seeing you there! And I hope that I hear from you, and to engage you in earnest and honest and charitable love.

I.X.