As we move into the New Year I wanted to circle back to our Parish Mission Statement. To Encounter, Experience and Share the Transformative Love of Jesus Christ. In the past I have written pastor’s pieces on each of these areas and how they apply to our relationship with God. This year we are focusing on being more outward facing and it recently hit me in prayer that our three Mission Statement descriptors apply to our relationships with one another as well. Just as we are called to encounter, experience and share the love of Christ so we are called to encounter, experience, and share one another as well.
One of the central tenets of community is how well we know and care for one another. This can only be adequately done if we really take the time to encounter one another. To encounter is to be fully present to the person in front of us. I know that this is one of my greatest growth areas as at times my mind can be split between the person in front of me and other things that I want to get done or other conversations or people. To experience is to continue to get to know one another better and continue to strive to want to know more about one another and where we come from. To share is to see the gifts, talents and charisms that others have and not only grow from them ourselves but also to see them as gifts in the life of other people.
As we continue this year, I would encourage each of you to try and be fully present not only to one another in the church but to everyone you meet. Get to know new people and ask God for the specific graces to see others as the gift they are. I also encourage you to foster a desire to experience those in your life, to have an increasing desire to know them better. Finally, I strongly encourage you to be inclusive and to share the people in your life by recognizing their unique gifts, talents, and graces. Not only should you honor them in your own relationships but also see them as individuals worthy of sharing with God and others."
Prayers Always,
Fr. Joseph Altenhofen
PREPARES MINISTRY
Our Prepares Ministry provides weekly services on Saturdays to 35+ families.
We are currently in urgent need of diaper donations to assist families who are struggling to provide this essential item for their children.
Why Diapers? Diapers are a basic necessity for infants and toddlers, yet many families in our community cannot afford them. By donating diapers, you can help ensure that no child goes without this essential item, allowing parents to focus on other critical needs.
How You Can Help:
- Donate Diapers: We are accepting all sizes of diapers, from newborn to toddler. You can drop off your donation in the Narthex of our Hoyt and Cedar Campuses (weekend Masses) or diapers can be dropped off at the parish office during business hours.
JOIN A GROUP AND DEEPEN YOUR FAITH!
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