I am scheduled to offer a retreat to a group of Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in Haiti, beginning on Monday the 12th. While I am in Haiti, our deacons will offer Communion Services during the weekdays and visiting priests will be with you for the weekend liturgies. Please pray for the sisters and for me, that we may turn our whole hearts over to the Lord during the eight-day retreat. I will return home on the 21st.
***
For me, in just these few weeks, the new worship space already feels like home. During the next several months, we will continue to look at any outstanding issues in the worship space and in the eight lower level meeting rooms. Like any new facility, we 'll need a few months to iron out any and all problems. Please let me know if you have a concern about either the church or lower level.
***
As I have mentioned to you before, I had discussed with our deacons and with the members of the Pastoral Council about what we should do with the sacred objects in the old church. Some things have been stored in anticipation of the proposed chapel (Phase III of our BLF project): the gold Tabernacle and the statues of Joseph and Mary (all safely stored). Other things have been given away, to be used by other parishes.
St. Anna's of Monroe has taken our old Stations of the Cross, to be used in their new worship space. They have struggled to raise all the funds they need. This gift of our Stations of the Cross will be a blessing for their community. Fr. Dan Toof and his parish team asked me to pass along their profound gratitude.
The cloth artwork of The Last Supper and The Ascension that was a part of our old worship space and narthex have been sent to our friends in Jamaica, the Missionaries of the Poor. We've also sent Fr. HoLung some of our spare vestments. It's a good feeling, to know that others will be using these sacred objects in prayer, as SJN did for many years.
***
Our new parochial vicar, Fr. Abel Guerrreo Orta, is beginning his four months of personal time away from the Archdiocese. He is on an extended visit to his home, caring for his 80 year old mother. Fr. Abel is excited about becoming a part of SJN. You will get a chance to meet him in late October, when he begins his work with us. I know Padre Abel and tell you that we are fortunate to have him at SJN. I have visited his home in Mexico and have had the opportunity to meet his family. Please pray for him during these next few months, that he may enjoy his time with family.
***
The long, hot southern summer is upon us. As a native of these parts, I know well enough to be careful of that summer sun. Some of us grew up in this heat before A/C! ENJOY a lighter schedule (if you are able) and rejoice in all that the Lord is doing for us and through us. And, if it's in you, please pull for the Braves!
Msgr. David Talley
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|