From Fr. Ray

Next weekend, the parish’s annual picnic will offer us an opportunity to strengthen our “networking” (translation – see, visit, and work together), as we renew and build community identity and spirit.  Please support this year’s picnic and be sure to invite friends and neighbors.  We will have a successful picnic if we attend, do the “networking,” extend invitations and remember to be thankful that we have a community of faith with which to gather, pray, and grow as disciples of Jesus.  I hope to do some networking myself and definitely have some fun – both nights.  See you there …  

I have mentioned on several occasions that the gifts offered by the children at liturgies would be used to purchase liturgical items that are not budget items but would enhance the Church’s Worship Space and celebrations.  Recently, a small wall-mounted Holy Water Font was installed on the inside wall at the entrance to Blessed Sacrament Chapel.  It offers those entering from the outside an opportunity to recall their baptism into the Body of Christ. I thank Rich Kapp for doing the installation work.

Registration for the Parish School of Religion (PSR) will continue this weekend in the Gathering Space.  Please see a representative to register your children – also, as Mary Lou indicated, changes to the Sacramental Preparation process have been made this year.  Parents of those children preparing for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation/First Holy Communion and Confirmation are asked to attend a special meeting Tuesday evening, August 10^th, during which these changes will be explained in detail.  Passing along the riches of our Christian Catholic Faith Tradition is important.  It involves, first and foremost, faithful, committed parents and families, then faith-filled catechists, and then a supportive faith-filled community in which and through which our children grow as disciples of Jesus living the values of the Gospel.  Please pray for our parish and school’s children, their parents and families, and, maybe, consider sharing your faith as a catechist.  Thanks!

The beginning of the new school year is approaching.  When is speak with those of school age, I am still getting mixed thoughts and feeling about starting school – some can’t wait to get back to the rhythm of the school year, seeing friends, and even studies (?), while others would definitely like another month of summer fun.  Oh, almost forgot –please remember to support the St. Vincent DePaul School Supply Project for needy students in the area.  Collections boxes are in the Gathering Space.