Dear Parish Family,
This Sunday, Jesus helps us examine the good works and desires of those who may not share our faith or values. As He says, "Whoever is not against us is for us." As the Body of Christ, the Church doesn't go around looking to make enemies, but rather looks for seeds of truth and goodness inherent in the people, works, and ideas around us. After all, it is God's grace that is responsible for initiating any and every true, noble, and good work in our human family. 
 
There are so many good things about people that Christ helps us to see in them! If we only look for the negative in others, we will only find the negative. As God's children, we are to look for and love the good in each other, and help to bring out that good more fully. Jesus sternly warns His disciples that whoever causes one of His little ones to sin is guilty of grave sin. Avoiding sin ourselves and leading our lives by the example and witness of Christ is a good place to start. If we have led others into sin, it is good to apologize to them and ask for their forgiveness in time. Most of all, Jesus wants us as His disciples to encourage, compliment, and accompany others in the pursuit of a virtuous and holy life.
  
Remember that next weekend is our Holy Land gift sale. Beautiful hand-made wood carvings and other religious items will be for sale after all Masses on Saturday and Sunday, October 5-6. Purchasing these gifts is a great opportunity to buy gifts for family and friends for the holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and other sacramental celebrations. Most importantly, purchasing these gifts provides much needed assistance to our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land. Due to last year's violence hindering tourism in that region, income has largely dried up for these Christian families. Think ahead and do some early gift shopping. Your support will help our brothers and sisters in need in the Holy Land get through this difficult time.
  
Join us for a Pet Blessing next Sunday, October 6 at 1:30 pm in the parking lot! Bring your pets and animals to receive a special annual blessing in commemoration of St. Francis of Assisi's feast day which we celebrated earlier this week. 
 
I am yours in Christ,
Fr. Scott Goodfellow