Parish Family,
We have all heard that “words matter”! We have all had jubilation or extreme hurt because of words either spoken to us or about us. Mother Teresa said, “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” True? Remember the good night kiss from mom or dad, followed by “I love you?” Doesn’t it conjure thoughts of being surrounded with love and being tucked in, with a feeling of a safe environment filled with anticipation of sweet dreams?
Jonathan Swift, the Irish author and clergyman, who penned “Gulliver’s Travels” was known for his strong morals of his faith. Swift shared “Words are the clothing of our thoughts.” Many of us have had the experience of not finding the “right clothing” and having words come out that we so wish we could quickly retract. Is that called putting your foot in your mouth? It has become much more pervasive that words are inappropriate and vulgar. Often these are words used in a ger, although sadly they have become parts of speech such as a noun or verb. Colossian’s 3:8 “But know you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”
When words come from our hearts, they can be so beautiful, but words that come from negativity produce pain. St Teresa of Calcutta says it best -” Words which do not give the light of Christ increase darkness.” Today, let’s use our words to give glory to God and bring joy to ours.
Mary Jo
Dear Parish Family,
GOLF OUTTING
Thank you to the committee and all who supported our Annual Golf Outing which was held at Timberwood Golf Club on August 26th. This was not only lots of fun for all who attended, but made almost $6,000.00 for the parish. We are most grateful! This is another way of evangelization for the parish.
ROSARY
We will continue to pray the rosary in the Meditation Garden on Thursday evenings at 6:30.
CHRISTIAN FORMATION
It is not too late to register your children for our Christian Formation Program. Amanda Brewer and her team are excited to help educate your children in our faith. Christian Formation will begin on Sunday, October 9th. Please call the parish office to register.
SOCK IT TO US
Your donation of socks for men, women and children is needed. This is way for us to Unleash The Gospel and help our brothers and sisters have warm feet for the winter. Receptacles are located in the Gathering Space. This is not our annual Christmas outreach project.
CSA
Patience – several attempts have been made to the AOD regarding those of you who have given to CSA over the years and did not receive the information in the mail. St Mark is not the only parish who has this issue. We hope to wrap up our CSA goal by the end of this month. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR GENEROUS DONATIONS.