Memorial Day

05-26-2019From Fr. Antony's DeskFr. John Barbella

I want to start by wishing everyone – especially the veterans of our parish – a very Happy Memorial Day! We owe the freedom we enjoy – and often take for granted – to those who sacrificed so much to defend it over the years. On Memorial Day, take a moment to say a prayer for those who died defending our country, and thank the veterans you know.

Holy Mass will be offered in our Church on Memorial Day at 7, 8, and 9 AM. The 8 AM Mass will be offered for all those buried in our parish cemetery. Those who were buried there since last Memorial Day will be mentioned by name in the intentions of that Mass. Everyone is welcome to attend.

If you have not yet registered your children for Camp Sts. Philip and James, this would be a good time to do so. This program will replace our old Vacation Bible School. It will be four days (July 8- 11) of fun, faith based activities for children who have completed grades K-4 th. I’m looking forward to seeing lots of our children there!

This coming Saturday, (June 1st) we will have something new in our parish. Our first Food Truck Festival will be held on the school grounds (137 Roseberry Street.) Anyone who knows me knows that I am looking forward to enjoying lots of good food that day along with the company of our good people.

I’m sure you are well aware that our parish is working with less priests than usual. There were five of us when I arrived – plus Fr. Pat on the weekends. Now, there are just two of us – with Fr. Pat, thankfully, still helping on the weekends. For this reason, June 8th will be the last Saturday morning 7 AM Mass. We will, of course, continue having an 8 AM on Saturday mornings for those good people who like to attend Daily Mass. Our weekend (Saturday evening and Sunday schedules) will remain unchanged – as will our usual weekday schedule of 6:45 and 8 AM and 12:10 PM Monday through Friday. Thank you for your understanding in this!

I want to thank everyone who came out for Cathy’s Memorial Service last Monday. It was wonderful to see so many people come to pray and renew their faith in the Resurrection and Eternal Life and seek God’s comfort in this sad time. Thanks also to all those who helped make the service and fellowship a success, including the choir and those who baked and served the goodies. It was a great tribute to our dear Cathy.

While it was sad to lose Cathy, I am pleased to announce that a life-long member of our parish, Nancy Ensley, will assume the position this Tuesday. I know we will all welcome and work well with her. I am personally grateful that she will begin soon, providing a smooth transition for our parish. Please keep her in your prayers!

Please also pray for me – at least one Hail Mary a day. I pray for you daily, and I am always grateful for your prayers. Let’s also remember to pray for our fallen service men and women on this Memorial Day and for peace!

Have a great week!

Fr. John

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