A Word from Your Pastor October 10

A Word from Your Pastor

Dear Parishioners:

Thanks to all who responded so readily and so quickly to last week’s homily! It was truly heartwarming to see how many families went into the cafeteria to have a look at the information set up by so many groups at our Parish Activities and Ministry Fair. It was, without a doubt, the best attendance we have had at such an event. Everything was right for it: the rainy weather, the donuts and juice, the Sunday readings, and good ole Catholic guilt (not always a bad thing!) that conspired to move hearts to say yes to something as simple as having a look before running off after Mass. Let us continue on our way!

Just a reminder of my invitation: every individual and family is asked to choose one group in the parish, either to join it or to pray for it, and to select one “big issue” in society that needs the touch our Faith provides and to get involved in doing something about it, either directly or by way of prayer. If each of us does our part, then all of us will benefit. We are in this together. The world needs a witness of the power of Faith and it is our responsibility to cooperate with God’s grace in us to live this witness.

I would like to highlight just a few items in each area for you to consider. In the
parish, we are seeking involvement in Bereavement Ministry (contact Deacon Marion), the establishment of a Jubilee Committee and an Alumni Association (contact Mary Ballantyne), and helpers to bring Holy Communion to our homebound parishioners (contact Sr. Carolyn).

Groups in the parish are looking outward by developing a response to Respect for Life (contact Peggy Wollock) and Social Justice (see the invitation to BREAD in the bulletin). You may be aware of other opportunities to reach out. Let us know what you are doing so we can pass on ideas to others. When we put our minds and hearts together, we accomplish much.

Next weekend, we will have a Mission Appeal for the Church in the Philippines.
This appeal is part of the annual Mission Co-op which allows missionaries from around the world to share their vision and seek the support of parishes in the Diocese of Columbus. Since the following weekend is World Mission Sunday, we are clearly being invited by God to open our eyes to the needs of the Church in the World. God can do great things if we have hearts that are open and generous.