Dear Parishioners,
Happy Anniversary, St. Jane Frances de Chantal! This weekend we celebrate our parish’s 75th anniversary or Diamond Jubilee. In case you didn’t know it, the word “jubilee” comes from a Hebrew word “yobel” which means “ram’s horn trumpet.” If you’ve ever celebrated the Jewish New Year, it’s possible you’ve heard the ram’s horn trumpet to mark the jubilee. In ancient times, a jubilee was celebrated every seven years. Land sold by the poor to provide sustenance in past years was restored to them to farm and to be used to provide a livelihood for their families. It was an occasion of great joy and the basis for the word “jubilation.” Today’s diamond anniversary jubilation is also a time of great joy as we reflect on St. Jane’s past. We have brought Jesus to our people and our people to Jesus through baptisms, communions, confirmations, weddings, confessions, funerals, and education. There have been our activities
- Spiritual (Mass, Confessions, Adoration/Benediction, Missions and Retreats)
- Educational (St. Jane Frances School—72 years, the School of Religion, and Adult Education)
- Athletic (soccer and basketball)
- Social (St. Patrick’s Day Bazaar, Bull Roasts, Bus Trips, Lenten Fish Frys, and Golf Tournaments).
Truly, St. Jane Frances has done so much for its people and the wider community. We have every reason to be filled with thanksgiving and jubilation. Happy Anniversary, St. Jane’s!
Fr. Carl
