From Fr. Ray,

         

Left behind … no, not the book of that title, rather the debris that is left behind in the Worship Space after liturgies: tissues (used, how disgusting – these also leave behind contagions to infect others), food (some of which is easily identifiable, some not”?”), clothing tags (I really do wonder about these “?”), gum wrappers, the occasional article of clothing (mainly, gloves, scarves and hats), eye glasses, and, if we happen to celebrate a special liturgy requiring them, worship aides are often left strewn about – it’s so easy to either take them with you or return them to the places where they were received.

We do sometimes forget items but please remember that we have four celebrations of Eucharist each weekend.  Please consider those who may be following you for the next liturgy.  I simply ask that you place debris in the receptacles located throughout the Gathering Space.  Most are located near entrances.  I will ask that one be placed outside near the southwest door for those who use this as an entrance and exit.  Our Worship Space receives so many compliments.  Please remember to be good Christian Stewards of all with which we have been blessed.

Preparations are under way for the start of our parish’s second capital campaign.  In upcoming bulletin remarks, details will be presented.  With its start, I intend to make a presentation regarding the successes of our last campaign, some current financial information, and conclude by setting the tone for the new campaign.  The campaign will begin during Lent.

As I mentioned in last week’s bulletin, I will be away this coming week.  If there is the need for a priest, please contact Fr. Joe at St. Stephen, Caseyville, at 397-0666.  Since St. Stephen is a neighboring parish, Fr. Joe and I cover for one another when away.  I will return late Friday evening – hopefully rested and even changed in some way from wandering (hiking) the high desert and discerning the Holy Spirit’s promptings in my life.  Please keep me in your prayers.