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1/9/22 Father Owen's Bulletin Message
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The Baptism of the LordDear Parishioners:
This weekend brings the Christmas season to a close. As we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, we celebrate Jesus who now begins his three years of ministry which would change the world forever. As Jesus is baptized by his cousin John, the voice of the Father is heard. The Father makes it clear that this is his son, Jesus and we must pay attention and listen to him. During the season of Christmas, we celebrated the Baby Jesus who became a boy. As Catholics, we pay particular attention to our children and young people ensuring that they are well prepared in the knowledge of their faith and of the giving of Christian values so that when they become adults, they will carry on the mission of being Christ to the world.
On this weekend of the Baptism of the Lord, we the Universal Church begin the Year of the Eucharist for this coming year which will conclude on the Feast of Christ the King. We reflect upon how the Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of everything we do. We strive to receive Christ in a worthy manner and are thus empowered to live as an active Catholic in the world.
We look forward to the Feast Day of the Body and Blood of Christ, June 19th. On that day, I hope that we as a parish can have a Eucharistic Procession to the middle school and call to mind the days, 40 years ago when weekend Mass was celebrated in that public facility. We remember the old rectory on Carl Lane, the little chapel that was there that had been built with love and devotion for Daily Eucharist. During this year, Maureen, Nina, and I look forward to hosting several sessions on the gift of the Holy Eucharist and how we as parishioners of St. Luke can truly appreciate and love, the special sacrament of Christ, Body and Blood. As we enter St. Luke Church, we notice that the tabernacle is placed in the center position. As we enter and leave the church, we genuflect and bless ourselves, realizing the strength of Christ that is within us as the magi prostrated in front of the Baby Jesus, we too prostrate ourselves before Jesus who is Lord, opening our hearts and minds to his Holy Will.
A big thank you to all of you my beloved parishioners for your great kindness to me this Christmas season. I was thrilled to receive so many cards and a huge assortment of gifts which I will enjoy for many weeks to come. I so appreciate your thoughtfulness. I know that I am blessed to be your pastor. Fr. Hubert returned from Poland last Thursday night. It is wonderful to have him home and I am so glad he had such a special time with his family during the Christmas season.
On behalf of Fr. Hubert, I wish you a healthy and Holy New Year!
Fr. Owen