Corpus Christi: This Sunday is the Feast of Corpus Christi, a Latin phrase that refers to the Body of Christ. There is a story of a young man asking a priest why he was a Catholic. The priest answered: “Because of the Resurrection.” The young man replied, “That explains why you are a Christian, but why are you a Catholic?” The priest replied, “Because of the Eucharist.” The Eucharist is essential to Catholic belief and fundamental to Catholic life. The gift of the Eucharist is the supreme gift of God to us—it is Jesus Himself. How blessed we are to have His Presence always with us and in us!
Memorial Day: I hope everyone enjoys Memorial Day and the special weekend for us. If you are in the area, please attend the 10 a.m. Mass on Memorial Day at Evergreen Cemetery (if it’s raining the Mass will be held at our Church). Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. While stationed in Rome, I went several times to the World War II American Cemetery in Nettuno, about thirty-eight miles south of Rome. It’s near the famous Anzio beachhead. It’s on 77 acres and the grounds and garden area are kept up beautifully. Spending time there was a great way to reflect on the young men and women who gave up their lives for freedom, and in the case of this cemetery, where 7,861 young American soldiers are buried. What is particularly touching is the fact that 23 sets of brothers are buried side by side there as well. Thank you to all who served our country and still do today.
Changes to the Sacrament of Confirmation: Last Monday, May 23, Bishop Boyea came to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation on our confirmandi. Most were 9th graders, but there were a few of our parish 8th graders who took classes elsewhere and were confirmed at our parish. This is something that I’ve been praying about for some time. I’ve decided to make some changes to our confirmation program. Beginning next year, those in 8th grade will take preparation courses for confirmation during their school hours if they attend our school or during Religious Education courses. The Sacrament of Confirmation for next year’s 8th graders will take place sometime in the fall of 2017 (at the beginning of their 9th grade year). All of next year’s 9th graders preparing for confirmation will continue to follow the schedule that has occurred the last several years: They will gather once a month on Sundays and be confirmed in May of 2017. In a nutshell, after next year all confirmation preparation will take place in the 8th grade year with the Sacrament of Confirmation taking place in the fall of their 9th grade year.
Fraternity: This Sunday afternoon I will be traveling to DeWitt to Msgr. Robert Lunsford’s residence to get together with my priest fraternity group. It’s always a joy to be with them. I especially enjoy going to Msgr. Lunsford’s place. He is easily the best cook amongst us!
In-pew survey: Next weekend, June 4 – 5, we are conducting an in-pew survey on the diocesan and parish capital campaign that will begin in July. The goal is to get as much feedback as possible. Thanks in advance for participating.
School auction: Really enjoyed the school auction on May 21. About 230 people attended—including a few family members. My favorite part of the night was when the auctioneer went around asking for donations to match a very generous donation for the school’s technology fund. My brother raised the paddle and said he would donate $300. Suddenly the man sitting next to him said, “hey, you raised my paddle instead of yours!” Nice to see my brother spending someone else’s money for the school. Not sure how they figured things out, but it was fun to see their reaction.
Have a blessed and safe weekend.
Msgr. Jerry
Saint quote of the week: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my Spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” The words spoken to the Saint Elizabeth, the cousin of Mary, at the Visitation, which is celebrated on May 31.