Dear Friends in Christ,
This past week Bishop Norbert Dorsey was laid to rest. I was especially fond of Bishop Dorsey as he ordained me to the Priesthood. He espoused a gentle manner but also had a wonderful presence about him, especially in liturgical celebrations. Bishop Dorsey often visited our parish as he and Monsignor Caverly worked closely together in the Chancery Office. Thank you for your prayers for his soul.
We also watched history in the making on Thursday as Pope Benedict XVI (now Pope Emeritus!) began his retirement. May the Holy Spirit inspire the Cardinals as they prepare to gather for the conclave. The next few weeks will prove to be exciting times for the universal Church.
On Friday evening Bishop Bernard Harrington was present with us to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with 117 teens of our parish family. Bishop Harrington is the Bishop Emeritus of Winona, MN. I pray that the Confirmandi will be especially enlightened as they embrace our faith as fully initiated Catholics.
Thank you for your support of the 2013 Our Catholic Appeal. Our assessment this year is $535,000. I hope that everyone will be able to participate through prayer and generosity. If you have not returned your pledge envelope, please bring it by the Parish Office or return it next weekend at Mass. To date we have received commitments of $314,286. Your gift helps to support the mission and ministry of the Diocese of Orlando. I especially appreciate your prayerful consideration and dedication to selfless stewardship.
When you come before the Lord this week, please ask yourself…. Is my heart burning? Your prayers for me and for the Clergy who serve our parish are greatly appreciated. Monsignor Caverly is especially appreciative of your prayers as he continues his recovery from a broken ankle. We may not see each other each day but may we meet each day in our prayers!
In Christ,
Very Rev. Stephen D. Parkes, V.F.
Pastor
Pastor