Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, 

 His Church, and All People

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Him

Last week’s column was already sent in before I could reflect and write about the death of Pope Francis.  I celebrated a private Mass for his intention and pray for the repose of his soul.  I was unable to watch any of his funeral or even see much news coverage either.  This is the third pope I have known in my life.   At these times I tend to focus on the reality that he, like all popes, like all of us are fallen human beings yet strive to follow Christ.  The responsibility a pope has is immense and truly impossible.  Yet, the Lord says with God all things are possible, so in God’s Providence He gives us the papacy and He works through the men entrusted with that office.  How history will judge Pope Francis, who knows, but in the end, he is a soul made in God’s image, baptized by grace, and ordained as a priest of Jesus Christ. He is loved by God, and may he now come to see the Good Shepherd Whose example he sought to follow.

Mary’s Month

Pope Francis had a strong devotion of our Blessed Mother.   So as we move into May, here are some things to consider:

            If you do not have a devotion to Our Lady, start one! Whether it’s the Rosary or certain prayers to Mary under her different titles, a Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  Perhaps consider doing a consecration to Jesus through Mary.  If Jesus loves her, so should we!

            This is a time that many people are receiving their First Holy Communion or a celebrating its anniversary.  Remember the great gift of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.  Perhaps pray a litany of the Sacred Heart or Precious Blood to rekindle that true desire for unity with the Lord and His Body the Church.

Mother’s Day, May Crowning, and Procession

At all Masses next weekend, we will give the Mother’s Day blessing for our moms.  We thank them for choosing life and living the wonderful vocation of motherhood.  

Next Sunday, May 11, we will honor our Lady by crowning her statue in the church at the 8am Mass.

Immediately following the 10:30 Mass will be a short Marian procession to the grotto near the rectory concluding with a brief prayer and blessing.

Faith Formation 

On May 18 at 9:15-10:15 in the PAC will be our monthly session.  The topic is:

What Do We Do Now? Part 3 of the Bishop’s Letter and our Easter Call to Missionary Discipleship.

May God bless you and Mary keep you.

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Pfr