Search
-
Friends in Christ,
The Catholic Church has been in the news of late with the early evaluation of our new Pope Leo XIV, and more locally, the second year of the Partners in the Gospel plan to merge parishes. In the midst of all these variables, I think it’s important to keep focused on the essential purpose of the church. The late Pope Benedict XVI helped by identifying the following three basic tasks to guide us:
The first is to worship God, which for us as Catholics means regular participation at Sunday Mass. Hopefully, with summer vacations ending and many families planning to return their children to school, Sunday Mass will become a regular part of your weekly schedule. To give our folks another option, we will be adding a Sunday 5:00 pm Mass beginning in January, in addition to a Saturday 5:00 pm Mass, and the two 9:00 am and two 11:00 am Sunday morning Masses. You are welcome wherever these Masses are celebrated in our family of parishes!
The second task is to proclaim the Gospel of Christ to all the world, beginning with each other. A reminder about the various faith formation options that will begin this fall: sacramental prep for children to receive first reconciliation and communion; confirmation for middle and high school students; and the OCIA/OCIC process for those adults and older children interested in being baptized or received into the full communion of the Catholic Church. Please also check the bulletin for Bible Study and other adult faith formation opportunities.
The third basic task of the church is to care for the poor, not as an afterthought, but at the forefront of our stewardship of time, talent, and treasure. The need is great, as are the outreach ministries for you to support. I would highlight here the important work of our St. Vincent de Paul Society with conferences at all four of our parishes. While financial support is very much needed, I also encourage you to consider becoming a member of SVDP. All ages are welcome!
Blessings of peace,
Fr. William Heric, Pastor