Friday's mail brought ''chills'' to Cincinnati Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk.
In it was Cardinal Joseph L. Bernardin's Christmas card.
On the cover was Correggio's painting of the Holy Family.
Inside was a copy of the cardinal's handwritten note, wishing his friends a happy Christmas.
''This is a very special Christmas for me because it is likely my last on this earth. There is, of course, a tinge of sadness to this reality.
''But there is also joy and anticipation at the prospect of being more intimately united with the Lord in the world to
come.
''His incarnation which we celebrate during this season is the basis for our present faith and our hope for the future.
''When I begin my final journey home, know that I will carry you in my heart.
''I am deeply grateful for your friendship and many kindnesses to me, especially your support and prayers.
''A blessed Christmas!''
Archbishop Pilarczyk said the card was ''in many ways a typical'' gesture by his predecessor in Cincinnati. It was planned, it built on friendship, and Cardinal Bernardin used birth and his own death as a ''teaching moment ... and that's what we're all about.''
Published Nov. 16, 1996.
