Pastor’s Letter: May 26, 2019

Pastor’s Letter: May 26, 2019

24 May 2019 | Posted by: chadmin

Dear friend,

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, Deacon Daniel McShane will be ordained to the priesthood. This is time of joy and celebration for him, his family, 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.

This past 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 decision making and their virtue they bring to American culture. Our last day of school is Friday, May 31. May our kids have a safe and restful summer.

God bless,

Father David