Dear Friends in Christ, It’s good to be back in our NE Seattle Catholic Community after three wonderful weeks in Europe. My thanks to Fr. Duc and all our staff who oversaw things in our family of parishes. Thanks as well to those who have offered their encouragement for everyone to make a stewardship commitment of Time, Talent,and Treasure in the coming year of 2026. The pledge cards are slowly coming in, but if you have not filled one out, please consider doing so. While the Holiday Season daily unfolds around us, I want to draw your attention to a special focus this month. In recent years, November has been designated as “Black Catholic History Month” to highlight the contributions of Black Catholics throughout the history of our church. We are blessed by their presence in our NE Seattle Catholic Community, and the opportunity we have to address the inequities of the past through our active Racial Solidarity Network. Please join in the celebration and support of our Black Catholic Brothers and Sisters! Looking ahead, a reminder that the church begins a new liturgical year on the first Sunday of Advent, which is November 30ththis year. This season of hope and longing for the coming of the Lord prepares us for the great celebration of Christmas. Please plan on making prayer and the sacraments, including reconciliation, an important part of your celebration of this sacred time. A final reminder is that our new 5:00pm Sunday Mass begins January 4th. It will be held at Assumption Church, but served liturgically by the members of all four of our parishes. Please stay tuned for information about how to sign up as a server, lector, eucharistic minister, choir member, or hospitality minister.