Dear Friends in Christ,
Every year, the weeks after Holy Week and Easter are filled with activities and celebrations! At this time of year, there is a need for some extra energy as we make that final ‘lap’ toward the end of the academic year as well.
This past Friday (April 8), our parish welcomed Bishop Noonan to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for our young people. Over 110 candidates presented themselves this year to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated in our parish for those who are 9th grade and older. I am especially grateful to this year’s group for their dedication and spirit. We will continue to pray for our Confirmandi as they grow and mature in the gift of our Catholic faith.
On the weekends of April 23/24 and also April 30/May 1, we will be celebrating First Eucharist with those children who are in 2nd grade or older. As has been our tradition the past few years, the children will be receiving First Eucharist at our regularly scheduled weekend Masses. Seeing the joy of the children, as they receive the Real Presence of Christ for the first time, brings back memories of our own First Holy Communion. Thank you for praying for the children as our parish family welcomes them to the Table of the Lord.
Once again I want to thank you for your participation in the celebrations of Holy Week and Easter. Thank you for making it truly a Holy Week!
When you come before the Lord this week, please remember the Clergy, Religious Sisters and Staff of our parish. Know that we will pray for you, your intentions and your loved ones. 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