FROM FR. SCOTT: May 12, 2024
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May 9, 2024Dear Parish Family,
Happy Mother's Day! May the blessing of our Lord be with all our mothers whom we celebrate this day, for all moms in heaven, (great)grandmas, godmothers, and for all expecting mothers. I don't think it's too bold to say that the gift of motherhood is the most beautiful and rich treasure of our humanity. Considering His own Mother Mary, I believe Jesus would agree!
This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of the Ascension. The Ascension of Jesus body and soul into heaven is the connecting thread between the Resurrection and Pentecost. Jesus risen from the dead is present to His Church through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Jesus Christ who unites us in faith and love. Jesus ascends to heaven not to distance Himself from us, but to more deeply and firmly unite Himself to us as He reigns at the Father's side.
Congratulations to our children who received their First Holy Communion this weekend! We are so grateful for the gift of our Lord Jesus in the Eucharist and for the good things He has planned for all who receive His Body and Blood faithfully and fruitfully.
Starting this weekend, you may hear bells ringing out at the church. Our bell company, Verdin, lent us a demo unit to use while we prepare to purchase a new system from them. I'm grateful to hear the blessing of bells again!
I will be away from the parish this week leading a retreat for the transitional deacons preparing for ordination to the priesthood. Please pray for these men who will be ordained priests in the coming weeks, for Dc. Michael Garvin who will be ordained a priest for the Diocese of Cleveland this coming Saturday, May 18 at 10 am at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, and for Dc. Kevin Bertleff and Dc. William Wainio who will be ordained priests for the Diocese of Youngstown on Saturday, June 1. I am blessed to be able to journey with these men to help them encounter the Lord and His grace as they prepare for their priestly ordination. Please keep us all in prayer this week!
I am yours in Christ,
Father Scott Goodfellow
