Pastor’s Letter & May 30 Bulletin

Pastor’s Letter & May 30 Bulletin

28 May 2021 | Posted by: chadmin

The May 30 bulletin is available online. 

Dear friend,

The 2020-21 School Year has come to an end. Thank you to everyone who helped us this year. Our parochial school exists first to hand on our Catholic Christian faith, but also to care for the development of our parish children in the different areas of human formation. Next to evangelization, medical care and education have traditionally been the main missions of the Church. It’s a gift that St. Philomena Parish has a parochial school. With all the challenges this year, special thanks to our teachers for their love, professionalism, dedication, and flexibility.

Last Thursday, our 8^th graders graduated from St. Philomena School. It is always difficult to say goodbye to the kids as they make the transition to High School. Every year, I am overwhelmed by the quality of students who leave our school. Our faculty and staff are united in mission to provide the best education in mind, body and spirit for our kids. We can all be confident that our students are well prepared for the next stage of life. As we pray for these students, let us also pray for our High School and College graduates as they make significant life transitions. May the Lord be with them in their future decision making and bless them with a safe and restful summer.

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! We take this time each year to remember those who died while serving in the military. As a Christian, I often think how unfortunate it is that we need a military. We all know the reality of the world and the reality of human conflict. This reality mandates that we provide protection. All of us know people who have served or are currently serving in our military. Many of us have loved ones who died during service. This time of year is a great opportunity to join in prayer of thanksgiving for the willing sacrifice of time, love and sometimes life of our armed forces. Please continue to pray for those who are currently in war torn areas of the world that they will return home safely.

The Diocese of Peoria celebrates the Mass of the Ordination of Priests on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend each year. This year, Deacons Austin Bosse and Nic Wilson will be ordained to the priesthood. This is time of joy and celebration for them, their families and the Diocese. The majority of our priests gather for the Mass to welcome new priests. Please continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood. I personally believe more men are called to the priesthood then those that find their way to ordination. Part of the mission of all in the Church is supporting others in finding the right vocation. This involves a prayerful reflection on the call to marriage, the right person to marry, or a call to ministry in the Church. We can all pray more for a culture of vocations that encourages all to see one’s life vocation as a call to serve family and the Church.

God bless,

Father David