Because of the Independence Day weekend, I am writing this message a week in advance having just meet with my classmates to celebrate our fifteenth anniversary of ordination to the priesthood (the actual date is May13th, but we had to delay our dinner this year due to a surgery for one of my classmates). As I have shared with many of you, being the interim administrator at St. Patrick Parish has been a joyful experience and renewing for my priesthood. It is a privilege to celebrate Eucharist with you, offer forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and gently pray for your loved ones who are journeying home to heaven. As I enjoy fireworks this weekend, I will think about how humbled I am to share every day in the colorful bright lights that all of you are to our parish family. Please continue to pray for each member of our community and that you may know that God cares about you, and that God has a reason to celebrate you each day.

  This week brought our fiscal year to a close. Over the next several weeks, our parish business manager and finance council will be working on a financial report for the parish. You will see that our parish’s financial situation is good, and that we can continue to support our parish ministries. Thank you to all who have been so faithful this year and have made real sacrifice for the good of our community. I am reminded each day that if we work together and everyone gives a share of their time, talent, and treasures, we can continue to grow in the wonderful things God has in mind for each of us and for our parish community.

  As always, know that you are in my prayers. May God bless our Country, our parish, and our community this week and always. Pray for us St. Patrick, our patron!