From Fr. Ray

            Following the parish’s last liturgy this past Sunday evening, I thanked Bishop Braxton for celebrating Eucharist with us.  Hopefully, his visit offered him a sense of ‘who’ we are as the Catholic community in Fairview Heights.

            I express my gratitude and appreciation to Deacon Art and Deacon Tom for their ministry of service to the bishop.  Please thank them, if you have the chance.

            To those who visit with us as guests, or who make us a somewhat second home for worship, I hope that you know that you are always welcome.  We strive to be a welcoming family and community of faith.

            As the summer ‘slips’ by, the parish’s annual picnic is quickly approaching. So, too, is the beginning of the new school year.  Planning for the picnic is nearly complete with preparations beginning soon.  The approach of the new school year is bringing increased activity in the school.  While many returning students are preregistered, a number of parents are still making last minute decisions for late registration.

PSR (Parish School of Religion) classes will also begin registration very soon.  Mary Lou Walker, who coordinates the Religious Education component of the parish’s Faith Formation program, has asked to speak at this weekend’s liturgies.  She will provide information regarding PSR program needs and may highlight a few changes which concern the sacramental preparation for those parish youth receiving the Sacraments of Reconciliation/First Holy Communion and Confirmation.  I ask your prayers and support.  Passing along the richness of our Christian Catholic Faith Tradition is primary among the missions of the Church.  Please help her and our children by volunteering your time and talent while sharing your own faith. The more we share our faith with others, the more we continue to grow and are enriched in our journey’s of faith.

Appreciating the contemplative and mystical traditions of the Church’s rich spirituality, I close with a prayer which helps me draw myself and others into a contemplative frame of mind:

            Be still and know that I am God.

            Be still and know that I am.

            Be still and know.

            Be still.

            Be.