Dear Parish Family,
Archbishop Vigneron asks us to “Let us make our parishes places where everyone who attends Mass can also make friends, find mentors, and feel known, loved, and supported.”
As we look around church, before or after Mass (not during because we are intently listening to the word of God), do we think of others who may attend by themselves. Do I make an effort to say “good morning?” If I am aware that someone has been ill, do I make a point to ask if they are feeling better, or would they like me to pray for them? When I see a family who have recently suffered the loss of a loved one, do I offer my condolences? What am I doing to promote others feeling loved, and supported?
My granddaughter recently moved to a different state. She googled different churches and found one fairly close by that offered a group for young adults. Her experience was one of sincere welcoming. People
came up to her and introduced themselves and were genuinely interested in who she was. She was immediately invited to attend a function for young adults. Claire shared “what a great group of people, and that she left with two phone numbers and was promptly invited to attend another evening at the church.” Needless to say, she is now a “regular” and looks forward to Sunday and seeing her new friends. “ Whoever receives one child like this in my name, receives me.” (Mark 9:37)
Many of us say “I know who you mean, but I don’t know their name.” Let’s all make a concerted effort to walk up to someone we do not know and introduce or reintroduce ourselves. I have never been in favor of name tags, mostly because I end up in the grocery store with it on, and am surprised when someone says “ thanks Mary Jo.” In ways this may be a useful tool! Let’s pray we all make every effort to be a welcoming community here at St Mark.
Even for those of you who may be a bit shy, there is nothing like a smile! “ Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you for the glory of God.” (Roman 15:7)
PARISH PHONES
God willing we will have a new phone system operating This next week! The bad storms we experienced last week, coupled with what I am sure could be considered antique equipment, has crippled our ability to receive calls - thus necessitating a new system.
Blessings to you and your family,
Mary Jo
Dear Parish Family,
Pope Francis has designated next Sunday, July 25th as the first annual World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. This neighbors with St Joachim and St Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. "I am with you always" ( Mt:28-20) draws attention to the vital role grandparents and the elderly play in our families, communities and the mission of the Church.
Fr. Stanley fondly remembers his Babcia & Dzidzia , and embraces this day with a special invitation to all of you who are grandparents, to bring your grandchildren to Mass this next weekend and help fulfill your important mission of passing on your faith. One of the great treasures of being a grandparent is our book (in our hearts and heads) of memories.How important it is to share these memories in a way that brings them to life. Our children may wholeheartedly remember or may not have heard some, but also add to this mosaic. You will create memories for them!
You may remember that Deacon Brian shared how he grew up with his mother in his grandmother’s home and the influence she had on him. It is easy to see the twinkle in the eyes of Deacon Brian and Anne when they speak of their three grandchildren. We can only imagine the great stories they must share!
Prior to Fr. Stanley, starting the Liturgy of Christian Burial for my little great niece, he asked me to remind him of the names of her grandparents. Many of them had already gone to their heavenly home, and he wanted to "get it right." Bum & Nana, Gammy & Gumpy, Gram, Grammy & Grandpa, and Nana & Pops required a quick note. We knew the love, caring, and prayers that they had all shared in her oh so brief life.
Grandparents - known by many names, are often "the presence" of being around, providing their undivided attention, and above all their wisdom and guidance to our children. Many of you have fulfilled this role to nieces, nephews, the kid down the block, or through incredible organizations. You create a culture of love and security!
This is an opportunity to “ show off” your grandchildren of any age! Please join us this weekend to give thanks, as we gather as a parish family for our Eucharistic celebrations.
May our loving God Bless you!
Mary Jo