Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Prayers after Mass - For Protection of Life
October is Respect Life month, and we live in a world where the gift of life is actively threatened in many ways.  Because the “Culture of death” has so infiltrated our culture, the temptation is to become numb to it or unconsciously (and even consciously) to avoid it in polite company. Sadly, this response is somewhat understandable due to the sheer magnitude of this evil. The reality overwhelms and paralyzes us; we do not want to admit that in our country, the land of the free, we have killed over 65 million innocent children.  As if murdering babies weren’t enough, this evil abortion industry takes advantage of and abuses mothers.  There are fathers as well who are robbed of their dignity.  We may feel helpless but there is always hope, for nothing is impossible with God.  To defeat this evil, we must take courage and act, but every good action should be rooted in prayer, so this month our prayers after Mass will include a special prayer for the protection of life.  Check out this link for more information.
https://www.usccb.org/news/2021/2021-respect-life-month-statement

Here is a website for Embrace Clinic and Care Center in Barberton, OH, which is a great place to donate or volunteer to help expectant mothers.
https://www.embraceccc.org

Volunteers Needed
There is so much that happens behind the scenes for a parish to operate smoothly.  At times I have thrown out the net for volunteers and I do not get much of a response. I assume that means things are seen to be operating smoothly, which is a good sign. However, recruiting new people helps more folks have a chance to help, and also to help with rotating the current folks so that they can get a break.  We really need help with ushers at all Masses to help greet people as they enter and take up the collections during Masses. It is not necessary that an usher commit to one Mass only; there is flexibility. It is open to men and women, and youth as well. We need people who can not only pass the offertory basket but be that friendly face of welcome to parishioners and visitors.

On the other side of the collection, we need help with money counters.  The schedules are flexible, so please call the rectory for details.  This is an important aspect that fulfills diocesan policy for financial accountability.  Please consider helping us out.

Synod on Synodality
The Holy Father has called for an extensive period of focusing on synodality within the Church. There is a diocesan phase or listening and participation which will prepare bishops for a synod in Rome next year.  Check out this website for more info.  There will updates from our bishop as well moving forward.  https://www.synod.va/en.html

“By walking together, and together reflecting on the journey made, the Church will be able to learn from what it will experience which processes can help it to live communion, to achieve participation, to open itself to mission.” - Pope Francis

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Pfr