This is one of those times when I had to write my article earlier than I like, due to the President's Day holiday. I hope you had a good one!

By the time you read this, about 75 young men and women – mostly eighth graders – will have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Since I had to write this before the ceremony, I can't tell you much about it. But I can tell you how much I have enjoyed working with these candidates as they prepared for this great day.

I especially enjoyed giving their Confirmation Retreat, and seeing them grow in their understanding of what it means to be a witness for Jesus Christ. Teaching some make-up classes for those in CCD was a pleasure, as was teaching the 8th graders in our school each week. Reading what they admired about the saints whose names they chose for Confirmation was very inspiring – as many of the young people clearly put a lot of thought into their choices.

Please pray for these young men and women. Our parish is truly blessed to have so many fine young people among her members. They are a tribute to their families and all who prepared them for this special day. I pray that, with the Holy Spirit's help, they will follow Jesus closely and make a difference for good in our troubled world.

Speaking of Confirmation, we will soon start working with this year's 7th graders – to give them a head start on their Confirmation preparation. We're doing this because, with the Bishop coming for Confirmation much earlier than in the past, a number of the 8th graders felt somewhat rushed in their preparations. Starting in 7th grade will give everyone ample time to complete everything.

On Sunday, March 31, there will be a meeting for all 7th graders who want to be Confirmed next year (in 8th grade), along with their parents. It will be held in Mercy Hall at 10 AM. Please watch the bulletin for more details! Included in this week's bulletin is our Annual Parish Financial Statement. A letter on the reverse side lends some context to it. Please read over both the statement and the letter.

Please also come to a Parish Meeting in Mercy Hall following next Sunday's 9 AM Mass. There will, of course, be coffee, juice, and donuts. I will speak very briefly about the Financial Statement, and entertain questions you may have. I hope to see you there! In the meantime, please say a Hail Mary for me today, and every day. I really appreciate your prayers – and the many other kindnesses shown to me by so many of you. It really is a pleasure to be your priest!

Have a great week!
Fr. John

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