Dear Parishioners,
As I was looking at the readings for this weekend to put together a few words for the bulletin, I realized I quoted the wrong New Testament reading the weekend of October 3–4th. The second reading from Thessalonians is actually from this weekend, no wonder it looked so familiar. Sorry about that. It lets me give thanks for each of you, multiple times!
While we are reading from Matthew’s gospel this weekend, the liturgical calendar also honors St. Luke, whose Feast Day is today. St. Luke is not only the author of the Gospel of Luke, but also the author of the Acts of the Apostles [and a disciple of St. Paul]. Acts chronicles the life of the early Church in the days and years after Christ’s Resurrection. The overarching theme of Luke’s gospel is the universal salvation for all, not just a select few. There is no longer a single chosen person—an important reminder for each of us, even to this day. If salvation is open to among others, Gentiles, tax collectors, and prostitutes, imagine what God has in store for each of us. Matthew in the gospel reminds us, “repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belong to God” (Matthew 22:22). Perhaps it’s a good time to ask, “What doesn't belong to God?” As we move into the beauty of Fall, I hope we can continue to be reminded of God’s universal love for each of us.
This week I will join Fr. Steve, our brother priests, and Archbishop Lori for our Biannual Priest Convocation. Every two years, we gather in prayer and fraternity for several days. We will have a Convocation speaker with multiple talks, communal mass and prayer, and time for friendship and priestly fraternity. For many of us, this is the only time we come together as one large group. We will also honor our brothers who have significant priesthood anniversaries. Our absence will create some disruption to the daily mass schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Finally, as we prepare to enter the month of All Souls in November, I would like to draw your attention to two ways we can remember those who have gone before us in this sacred month. At both parishes in our pastorate there will be an Altar of Remembrance. You are invited to bring in framed pictures of your loved ones (no larger than 8x10) between now and November 1st. Please place a label with your name and phone number on the back of the framed picture in case you forget to pick it up at the end of November. In addition, there will be a Book of the Dead in close proximity to the Altar of Remembrance where you can inscribe names of deceased family and friends. You may include as many names as you wish. There is no stipend required as this is not a Mass intention.
Blessing on your week!
Fr. Kevin
