From the Pastor
September/04/2009
We remember with sadness again that day that we now refer to as “9-11.” As we pray for the memory of those who were killed in that tragedy, let us also remember in special prayer the men and women who serve each day in our armed forces all over the world, especially in those “hot spots” of Iraq and Afghanistan. They are there trying to secure freedom for people in those parts of our world that are continually under assault, often because of fanatical leaders and their mindless followers. They are always grateful for our prayers and remembrances of them.
This Monday is Labor Day, a national holiday in honor of the working force of our country. Traditionally, up north, it was the last of the summer holidays before school resumed. However, this is Florida, and the force of the holiday can easily lose its appeal because, for many, the summer vacation period has ended and our focus is removed from the season when most people take some kind of a vacation. Since it is a legal (the Office is closed) and school holiday, there is an opportunity to begin that day with morning Mass (no afternoon Mass that day). How pleasing it would be to the Lord if we were to take the time, brief as it is, and make the sacrifice of celebrating Mass instead of sleeping a little bit later. This would be a most appropriate time to come to Mass in advance of the day “9-11,” when many cannot get to church. Remember how full the churches were when we felt the pain of that day? Wouldn’t it be great to do that again? What a way to honor those who have gone on before us on that day of infamy eight years ago.
On Tuesday, September 8th, we mark the annual celebration of the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A special Rosary that day in her honor and for your intentions can go a long way in seeking her motherly care. She is a true mother who never abandons her children. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus and to our Middle School students from our EDGE program who helped serve up a delicious dinner on this past Friday’s Fish Fry. It was the first of the season, and we’ll try to keep this monthly event as much as possible (not in November due to the Auction, and not in January because it’s New Year’s Day!).
While we’re in the praying mode (and mood?), let’s also remember to pray for all priests in this “Year for Priests,” as Pope Benedict XVI has asked of us. Too often we may sell short the call to priesthood in the life of men who have tried to dedicate their lives to service to God and His people. When was the last time you prayed for priests? While we pray daily for you, we need your prayers, too! Please pray for us. Here are some prayers that you may want to clip and preserve in your wallet, pocket or prayer book.
Very Rev. Canon Tom
This Monday is Labor Day, a national holiday in honor of the working force of our country. Traditionally, up north, it was the last of the summer holidays before school resumed. However, this is Florida, and the force of the holiday can easily lose its appeal because, for many, the summer vacation period has ended and our focus is removed from the season when most people take some kind of a vacation. Since it is a legal (the Office is closed) and school holiday, there is an opportunity to begin that day with morning Mass (no afternoon Mass that day). How pleasing it would be to the Lord if we were to take the time, brief as it is, and make the sacrifice of celebrating Mass instead of sleeping a little bit later. This would be a most appropriate time to come to Mass in advance of the day “9-11,” when many cannot get to church. Remember how full the churches were when we felt the pain of that day? Wouldn’t it be great to do that again? What a way to honor those who have gone on before us on that day of infamy eight years ago.
On Tuesday, September 8th, we mark the annual celebration of the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A special Rosary that day in her honor and for your intentions can go a long way in seeking her motherly care. She is a true mother who never abandons her children. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus and to our Middle School students from our EDGE program who helped serve up a delicious dinner on this past Friday’s Fish Fry. It was the first of the season, and we’ll try to keep this monthly event as much as possible (not in November due to the Auction, and not in January because it’s New Year’s Day!).
While we’re in the praying mode (and mood?), let’s also remember to pray for all priests in this “Year for Priests,” as Pope Benedict XVI has asked of us. Too often we may sell short the call to priesthood in the life of men who have tried to dedicate their lives to service to God and His people. When was the last time you prayed for priests? While we pray daily for you, we need your prayers, too! Please pray for us. Here are some prayers that you may want to clip and preserve in your wallet, pocket or prayer book.
Very Rev. Canon Tom