In this picture you see me with Gary and Mary Ann Sims, two of our awesome parishioners, at last Saturday’s Oktoberfest. Everyone who came to this event had a great time. The brats, sauerkraut, potato salad, pretzels and strudel were all delicious. Young folks enjoyed playing in the field, adults enjoyed contests and entertaining Oktoberfest music, and there was a lot of good conversation. I am so grateful to all who took part, and I am especially grateful to the parishioners who organized the event. Bob and Joia Smart, along with too many generous volunteers for me to mention individually, did a fantastic job.
Before the Oktoberfest, we had a great presentation about the construction project. The architect and the general contractor were on hand to show great visuals of the final vision as well as our progress to date. They answered excellent questions from parishioners, and everyone was energized by the way this long-time dream of our parish is becoming a reality. When you come to Mass each week, you have the opportunity to see the steady progress that is being made. We are blessed indeed!
Another great opportunity to get together is quickly coming up. On Saturday, October 16th, our Parish School is hosting a “Flashback Fiesta” to celebrate the school’s 40th anniversary. It promises to be another fun and festive time for all. This is a reminder that our school is a major part of the parish’s mission to celebrate, serve, and evangelize. You can get more information about the Flashback Fiesta by going to the school web page (stedschool.org) and scrolling down to the “Recent News” section. I will be there, and I look forward to seeing you there as well.
To be sure, the most important time that we gather together as a parish is at Mass, where the Lord himself brings us together, not only to celebrate the Paschal Mystery, but also to rejoice in his presence. Besides the Eucharist itself, the Lord is present within us and we share the common life of grace. It is good, though, that in addition to Mass we find other times to get together and enjoy one another’s company. Tertullian, one of the Fathers of the Early Church, famously said, “See how these Christians love one another!” Experiencing the charity that joins all of us together is not only a lot of fun; it is a sign of who we are as Christians. Thank you for being part of this loving community with me.
Gratefully yours,
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