June 1, 2025

Dear Friends in Christ,
Two important anniversaries occur this week that are worth noting. The first is the formal celebration on May 31 of a special Mass commemorating the 175^th anniversary of the founding of the Catholic Church in Western Washington. Officially known now as the Archdiocese of Seattle, this milestone reminds us that we belong to a large and diverse history of Catholic faith with a mission to witness to the love of Christ to all in our region. This is not a task we undertake by ourselves, but always as a continuation of the faith lived by generations before our own. Isaac Newton put it well when he said, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.”
The other milestone of note this past May 24 is the 10^th anniversary of the signing by Pope Francis of the encyclical “Laudato Si,” which spoke of the need to address climate change and to see planet Earth as our common home. As Catholics, along with others, we have a duty and responsibility to do the following:

1. Protect the planet: This includes responding to the "Cry of the Earth," which focuses on reducing carbon emissions, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring access to clean water for all. 
2. Address social justice: This involves responding to the "Cry of the Poor," advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, and promoting a more equitable distribution of resources. 
3. Foster ecological economics: This emphasizes sustainable production, ethical consumption, and investments that prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet. 

These goals are not isolated but rather interconnected, recognizing that environmental degradation and social injustice are deeply intertwined. By working towards these goals, Laudato Si' calls for a holistic approach to creating a more sustainable and just world. 
These two anniversaries are not only moments to look back to where we came from, but also to look forward to the future that God’s peace and justice calls us to create for ourselves and future generations come. May it be so.
Blessing of peace,
Fr. William Heric, Pastor
 
p.s. Congratulations to the 8^th graders at St. Catherine, Our Lady of the Lake, and ASB Schools who will graduate this coming week. Blessings as you transition to your time in high school! All the best!