I am writing this long before I leave for vacation. As we look to a new year, a thought is about funerals, since I am celebrating two of them before I leave. When you see a note in the bulletin or read an obituary, why not offer a prayer for them? If you are aware of a funeral why not plan on attending the Mass? The more people praying for someone the better.
Prayer not just for people, but our parish as we celebrate 150 years. We can celebrate our past and many wonderful things and we also need to look to the future. We should reflect on how to invite people (and even ourselves) into a deeper relationship with Jesus and His Church.
This weekend we have Cross Catholic Outreach. I encourage your generosity and prayers for their efforts in helping those in need. I hope you offer a warm welcome to our visiting priest. There are needs near and far and as individuals it seems we can do so little. Nonetheless responding with compassion and living out the corporeal and spiritual works of mercy is part of our calling as Christians.
Next Sunday is the beginning of National Catholic Schools Week. I have greatly enjoyed having the students here for Mass on Tuesdays. I am a little slow but names and faces are sinking in. So pray for our schools throughout the diocese. Our catholic schools are part of helping students to grow in faith. Our prayers are needed for families too. Studies have shown if a family is not going to Mass, praying or making faith a priority our catholic schools are stymied in its efforts. A father’s role in living the faith is huge. Again, studies have shown that if the father of the family does nothing, the student will follow their example no matter how much effort mom or the school puts into living the faith. Our catholic schools are meant to be a partnership. Talking with our chaplains in the diocese there are many stories of the children’s desire to know Jesus that is bringing their parents back into a consistent practice of the faith. Lots of good things to pray for in the coming days. See you next week when I return.