Faith remains our stronger connection with Jesus, the Savior. Prayer and perseverance constantly strengthen our faith. When we have strong faith, nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.
         The news of last week, about the failure of spiritual leaders to protect innocent children instead of harming them immorally, was very uncomfortable for everyone. It was not good news for us. It was the type of news that can deeply shake faith and make us stumble. Our love, prayer, and spiritual support go to all victims. Pope Francis encouraged us at this time to pray more and more for the victims and for the Church.
         Please, I encourage us this week as a parish community, to say one Our Father and three Hail Marys (on your own) for the Lord’s spiritual consolation of all kinds for the victims. As a way to begin prayer this week, we have in our midst Fr. Cornelius Ekwebelem who is visiting with us for about two weeks. Father will be conducting different retreats in our parish for all volunteers of any kind and for the Knights of Columbus. Anyone is free to attend the retreat for volunteers. May we take this spiritual opportunity to regain stronger faith and perseverance in Jesus Christ. Constantly, we need the Grace of the Holy Spirit in our lives, assuring us of the presence and guidance of God in our everyday life. Fr. Cornelius Ekwebelem is originally from Nigeria. He is currently working in a parish in Verona, Italy, and studying his Doctoral Program in “Biblical Theology” in Rome. He is a very good man, spiritual, and a wonderful priest. Please, let’s make good use of this spiritual time with him. Jesus has asked us to always pray, pray, and trust in His Sacred Heart. May we continue to grow stronger in faith, in love, and in holiness, no matter what challenges our lives.
 
VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: I want to thank all our staff and volunteers for complying with the “child protection safety training” of last year. Before school or faith formation starts this year, if your work ever takes you near children, I would encourage you to make sure you try to complete safety training. Archbishop Sample reminded us priests about that in our meeting. If you have questions about that, or are not sure if your ministry needs such training, please talk with Valerie Cowan, or talk with me. I will be glad to assist you.            
                                                                                 Fr. Justus Alaeto, Pastor