A Word from Your Pastor - July 20

Dear Parishioners:

This weekend we have our annual Mission Appeal with the Diocese of Columbus Missionary Co-op.  This year we have been assigned Hands Together, an organization that works to address needs in Haiti.  Since our parish has already shown generosity to Haiti in a variety of ways, it is a good match.  During our Parish Jubilee, we helped a family by building a house in Haiti through our donations.  We also shared in a Medical Mission trip by sending needed supplies with a group who were going to Haiti.  Our neighbor, St. Agatha Parish, has been working with Hands Together, involving their entire parish and all its committees and organizations as a way of entering into a Spiritual Renewal.  I invite you to be generous in your response to the appeal.

We are grateful to all who were part of the Festival this year.  Countdown for next year has begun – July 10-11, 2015.  As we wrap-up this year’s details, let’s be sure to note down things to keep in mind for next year.  One hidden item that took place without much fanfare was setting up a table with information about the Catholic Faith.  T. J. Lehigh set it up just before the first night of the Festival began.  No one attended to the booth, which was in the church vestibule, but the materials on display disappeared.  Perhaps we can think about such a booth next year, with live participants to share our Faith with those who come to visit.

As you will notice, I am away this weekend (taking advantage of the presence of the Missionary priest).  I am attending a Golden Jubilee Celebration for a Holy Cross Sister I have known for many years, Sr. Paula Goettelmann, C.S.C.  She was one who prayed me through Seminary and who has been present for many of my own milestones in priestly life and ministry.  It is a joy to be there, at St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame, as she and other Holy Cross Sisters are honored for their faithful service.  I will say a prayer for your at the Grotto at Notre Dame and give a nod to “Touchdown Jesus” for you as well.

Next weekend, T.J. Lehigh will be saying his farewell, even as he completes the major project for his summer assignment at St. Timothy, creating an opportunity for parishioners to share in the New Evangelization.  We are hopeful that many of you will make plans to take part next Sunday afternoon.  We are a welcoming parish family.  Let’s be sure our neighbors have heard from us!