The latest information from federal, state and local public health agencies informs us that the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus is surging in our area, causing increased illness and hospitalizations at levels not seen since the spring. For the safety of all who worship at Catholic parishes throughout the Diocese of Cleveland, I strongly encourage you -- whether vaccinated or not vaccinated -- to wear a face mask while attending Mass indoors.

After this week, I'll have been assigned here at the parish for a whole month. I feel so blessed by God to be with you. Time is flying as I immerse myself in parish life. Please continue to help me get to know you by reminding me your first and last name, something interesting about yourself, or a ministry you're involved in at the parish. That will help me make connections and settle in.

   I can't believe we're heading towards the end of summer already! School has already begun for some of our families. In fact, this Monday is the first day of school for our St. Mary School students and teachers. We warmly welcome them back and look forward to the life and joy they bring to our parish.

I began to share a bit about the development of my vocation in last week's bulletin, and I would like to conclude that story in this week's bulletin as I look at my time in seminary formation and early years of priesthood.

Dear ladies, high school age and older, WOW meets this Saturday, August 14th in the Hospitality Room. Please come by 9 a.m. this month as we have a special guest stopping in at 9:15 a.m. Thank you! We hope that you will join us.

As we continue to hear from the Bread of Life discourse in John 6 this weekend and next, I am mindful of Jesus relating His identity as Priest and Shepherd. As you come to know me as your priest and shepherd in Christ, I want to share a little about my own call to priesthood and desire to serve God and His people. The guiding thread through my story (and yours) is that remaining in relationship with Christ deepens our identity in Him and prepares us for His mission.

As I begin my time with you this week, I am grateful to God for His call to come to Chardon and Thompson, for your prayers which are sustaining me in the midst of my transition, and for the work of our Interim Administrator, Fr. Andy Turner, in leading our parish communities faithfully through a time of loss.

Dear ladies of the parish, high school age and older, please join us for the next gathering of the Women of the Well Prayer Group. We meet on Saturday, Aug. 14th, in the Hospitality Room at 9:15 a.m. We hope that you will join us.