From the pastor’s desk September 29, 2024

Dear friends in the Lord,

As we embrace the beauty of this approaching fall, I hope this message finds you in good spirits. As we gather to celebrate the Holy Mass, I invite each of you to take a moment to reflect on the profound significance of the liturgy we share, beginning with the Penitential Rite.

The Penitential Act is more than just a ritual; it is a heartfelt communal acknowledgment of our human frailty and our need for God’s boundless mercy. This essential part of the Introductory Rites invites us to stand together as a community, recognizing that we all fall short and that we all are in need of healing. It is a moment to pause, to breathe, and to prepare our hearts for the sacred gift of the Eucharist that follows.

During this sacred act, the priest leads us in a prayerful confession, encouraging us to express our sorrow and seek God’s forgiveness. Pope Francis beautifully articulates this sentiment, emphasizing that in acknowledging our flaws, we present ourselves to God as we truly are—vulnerable, yet hopeful.

Let us approach this Penitential Act with open hearts, ready to embrace the grace that flows from our acknowledgment of sin.

As we journey together in faith, let us remember that we are never alone in our struggles. God’s mercy is always within reach, inviting us to rise anew, transformed by His love.

With prayers for your continued growth in faith,

Fr. Andrew