Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People
 
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
 
Benefits of Eucharistic Adoration
For many years we have been blessed with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Tuesdays from 7:30am-3:00pm.  We have a small number of faithful people who commit an hour (or sometimes a half-hour) every Tuesday to praying before the Eucharistic Presence of our Blessed Lord.  It is always good to remind ourselves of the great individual graces one can receive from this practice as well as the benefits that come to the parish.  The work of grace often happens in the silence; growth in holiness comes with persevering love; focusing on the Lord’s Real Presence can only help you spiritually.  Are you drawn to deeper love of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament?  Do you want a time to be still and quiet with the Lord?  Ask anyone who has been faithful to Eucharistic Adoration and they will tell you of the peace, grace, joy, and other fruits of the Holy Spirit that come from this devotion.  Think of the times we have adoration for fifteen minutes after Sunday Masses once a month.  I have heard many positive comments on that extra time with our Lord.  There is opportunity to encounter the Lord like that every Tuesday here at St. Paul’s.  I ask that everyone examine their prayer life and schedule and give adoration a try.  Make the effort even if it is not a whole hour, still stop in on Tuesday and let the Lord inspire you to greater love of Him that we may become better disciples. 
If you want to learn more about prayer, check out the formed.org website, or you can also access it from stpaulakron.org - just go to the “Growing in Prayer” page.
 
October - Month of the Rosary
Speaking of prayer, one of things one can do during Adoration is pray the Rosary.  Who better to help you draw closer to our Blessed Lord than our Mother Mary?  But even outside of church the rosary is a wonderful prayer practice.  Whether one meditates on the mysteries or simply allows the words to lead one deeper into focus on Jesus, this devotion is grace-filled.  October has become a month to honor the rosary in particular.  I ask that everyone renew their praying of the rosary especially for the intentions of an end to abortion and for the perseverance of the People of God in the midst of crisis.  If you are not familiar with praying the rosary, this is a great month to start!  Go for it!
 
No Masses October 10,11,12
As a reminder, I and Fr. Karg will be at the Presbyteral Convocation later this week where we will meet with the bishop and all the other priests of our Diocese for a time of retreat and reflection.  While there will not be Mass, please feel free to come to church and pray.  And if you would, don’t forget to throw a few prayers our way for all the priests at the convocation. 
 
May God bless you!
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Pfr