Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Congratulations to our First Communicants!
Six of our young people received their First Holy Communion at the 4:30 Vigil Mass this weekend.  It was a wonderful celebration because not only have these kids prepared well, they are an example to all of us to have a child-like faith always relying on the strength God gives to us, especially in the Eucharist.  I am also pleased that the first thing these young ones did after reception of Holy Communion, was to turn right back around and give God thanks by adoring the Blessed Sacrament.  At the end of Mass was time of Adoration and Benediction as the kids gave example for all of us to grow in love of our Eucharistic Lord.  Congratulations!

Upcoming Catholic Charities Appeal
The Catholic Charities Appeal follow up will be focusing on the opioid problem in our society. Unfortunately, this crisis has impacted every community and more families are suffering from the ripple effects of addiction.  The normal weekend for this in our Diocese is this weekend, however due to First Communion and other reasons we are moving it to next weekend, May 26-27.  I am glad to say that we have made a substantial part of our yearly goal already, but we will need your help to reach it next weekend.  Thank you for you generous support.

School Update
As Catholics, even when a loved one dies, we believe that life is changed not ended.  The Lord continues to offer hope and salvation.  While these past months have been difficult at times, there are also signs of hope and goodness the Lord gives us.  One sign is that the majority of our students will continue in catholic education at neighboring catholic schools.  Also I have been impressed with the students who continue to finish the year strongly especially in their love and worship of God at Mass and in Adoration.  I have cherished my time in seeing the children in class every week as they continue to ask good questions and engage the faith. 

We are getting closer to graduation and the last day of school, so I think it would be wonderful to hear more stories of how our school has impacted your life.  We would love to hear them so we can share them with others.  Feel free to send it through email or drop it off at the rectory.  While things are changing, we can still thank God and celebrate the ninety-two years of St. Paul Parish School.

May God bless you and Mary keep you in this month of May!

In Christ,

Fr. Pfeiffer