Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Christ is the King of the Universe! We have come to the final week of this liturgical year. Recently our Mass readings and prayers have been moving us to consider the end times: death, judgment, Heaven, and hell. As Catholics these are realities that we should consider all year round, but especially now, the church emphasizes them as we conclude our liturgical year. Christ will come again in power and glory and judgment; no earthly power can usurp His and the Heavenly Kingdom will reign forever.

Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Ecumenical Thanksgiving Prayer Service Tomorrow evening, Monday, November 20 at 7pm at Firestone Park Presbyterian Church, there will be an Ecumenical Prayer Service in honor of Thanksgiving. The religious groups of our area thought that we should all get together as a Firestone Park community and offer thanks to God. While there are differences in our religious beliefs, one thing we can come together on is thanking God for His many blessings.

Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Preparing for Advent and Turning Eastward Last week I wrote of how we plan to celebrate the Masses of Advent ad orientem, meaning “toward the East.” A couple years ago, the Prefect for the Congregation of the Discipline of the Sacraments, Cardinal Sarah, stated that this liturgical posture is very much a part of our current Tradition and recommended that priests and parishes incorporate this liturgical option in some way. While this was not a mandate, only a suggestion, I believe it has merit.

Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Listening Session Regarding Church Scandals Last Sunday we had about 40-50 people at our Listening Session. It was a time of thoughtful sharing and prayer. I thank all those who participated and those who have spoken to me privately as well. One of the points mentioned many times was the need for prayer, so I encourage everyone to continue their prayers for the Church. If you have other suggestions on how we can respond as individuals or as a parish please contact me.