From the Pastor’s desk— July 28, 2024

Dear parishioners,

This week from Sunday until Thursday morning I will be with our seminarians, joined by Bishop Rice, for their annual summer gathering. This is a time for them to strengthen their brotherhood, to pray together, to remember what it means to be studying for priesthood in our diocese and enjoy a bit of restful vacation. They will also be together for the barbecuewe’ve been announcing to meet guys who want to learn more about the seminary.

I’m happy to say that today I wrote my fifth recommendation letter to Bishop Rice this summer to accept these five men to the seminary. Three will begin at college level, andthe other two, in their mid-twenties, have college degrees and will start in the masters program. They join Dan Dunn who is looking hopefully toward ordination to the transitional diaconate in the spring in preparation for priesthood the year after that.

Now is an exciting time for vacations. Five new men in one year is a record number, Ithink. They may not all continue to priesthood, but they are a witness to others of what God can do when we say yes. I am hopeful that we can have just as many again next year, but it won’t happen without each of us doing our part. Young men are more likely to say yes when they know they are supportedby their family and community. Let us pray for vocations! Let us ask God to raise up a priest from our parish.

Please pray for me and our seminarians this week. Know I will be praying for you.

Fr. Joseph