A Word from Your Pastor - September 27

Dear Parishioners:

This weekend, I am in Philadelphia for the encounter with Pope Francis.  Be sure that you and all your concerns and that of your families are with me as we participate in this historic spiritual event.  As you read this, pilgrims will be gathering for time with our Holy Father as he concludes his visit in the New World by celebrating Mass with the World Meeting of Families.

The pilgrimage sponsored by the St. Timothy Women’s Club has taken us to several shrines associated with Saints: St. John Neumann, St. Katherine Drexel, St. Gianna Beretta Molla, and St. Rita of Cascia.  Some of these are “home-grown” in our own lands.  All are a reminder to us that the Call to Holiness is addressed to all of whatever walk of life.  The invitation of Pope Francis is for us to respond to live in communion with the Church as a Family and to embody in our own families the values and the virtues that invite others to know the saving truth of Jesus Christ.

As we complete this journey, we are also preparing to continue to respond to Pope Francis’ invitation to celebrate the coming year as a “Year of Mercy.”  Now is the time to make concrete plans about how we will do this as a Parish Family.  What does Mercy mean to you?  How will you and your family keep the theme of Mercy alive in your home?  What will you do among your fellow parishioners and on behalf of your friends, your enemies and your co-workers in the world?  Mercy is for all.