Where did the Easter Season go? It was filled with many exciting events in the life of our community! There was 121 children who received their First Communion, 36 teens who were confirmed, several Quinceneros, a few weddings, and two new members who joined through RCIA at Easter Vigil. With the help of the Holy Spirit and our catechists, those who received the Sacraments will continue to develop in their faith.
There is alot of positive energy around the parish - even with the ending of Faith Formation. So many flowers blooming, thanks to the generosity of people from the parish who have donated a variety of plants from their gardens. I have loved the planting and fixing up the grounds. A new parking lot of 55-60 spaces will be completed very soon due to your generosity - thank you!
We are coming down the home stretch with our Diocesan self study. So many people have put so much time and effort on this project, and soon we can look ahead to building something to deal with our growth! We are also about to make a decision on the Stations of the Cross in the church. Options will be displayed and the entire community will make a choice - or keep the ones we have. Also, our wecome package is almost comple and ready to be handed out. It will include lots of information- like commissions, mission statements, Mass times, and phone information.
Debbie, Wayne, and I attended a workshop on Catholic Come Home. This is a program to invite Catholics to come back to the Church. Radio, television, and other advertisment clips will begin to air at the end of November and continue through the Advent Season. Lots of opportunities for inviting more people back - thank heavens we have extra chairs for the church! I have always been impressed by what a welcoming place Our Lady of the Highways has been - thanks to each of you! As new people come back to us, we need to extend that extra welcome.
In mid June the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales gather again for a convocation. One of the ideas that was debated last year, was the placement of priests in parishes. I will be going with my voice to stay here at Our Lady of the Highways for many years to come. Say a special prayer that the Oblate policy will not change in regards to our parish.
June 13, 2010 marks another milestone in my priestly journey - 29 years ordained! Next year we should have a big celebration!
Let us continue to listen for where the Holy Spirit is directing us!
Father Jim