February 19th

Dear Friends,
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While away last week, I followed with a sense of sorrow and horror the reports on the aftermath of the terrible earthquake in Turkey and Syria. The numbers were staggering: over 7,000 buildings destroyed and at least 35,000 dead. Reading about this while relaxing in a tropical paradise left me in a pensive mood, as I considered just how quickly life as we know it can change. It occurred to me that we really need to enjoy the moments of peace and beauty that are given to us. And we need to reflect upon how they are meant to fortify us against feelings of vulnerability and episodes of tragedy that are also sure to come.

By now, all parishioners should have received in the mail information about the Annual Catholic Appeal. Funds collected in this appeal go towards supporting important ministries and outreach in the Archdiocese and beyond. Each parish has a quota, and ours is about $21,000. I am happy to say we generally achieve our quota each year, through the generosity of parishioners like those of you reading this. This weekend is Commitment Weekend, when we hear from the Cardinal and fill out our pledge envelopes in the pews. I have already sent in my donation, as perhaps have many in our parish. Still, I will also fill out a pledge envelope to show solidarity and as sign of our united parish effort. Let us join our efforts with the efforts of of all the remaining parishes (about 260 of us) in our Archdiocese

Inside today’s bulletin and on the website is information about church services for Ash Wednesday, which is this week. Let us all begin to consider how we might make the most of the coming 40 days.

ALPHA enrollment continues! See information in the bulletin and on the website for this series of dinner/video/discussion evenings that will be starting up on March 1st.