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Dear STL Family,
Laetare (rejoice) Sunday is the popular name for the Fourth Sunday in Lent. It's also known as Refreshment Sunday, a day, traditionally for us, Catholics to acknowledge that we're halfway through Lent. For me, it's a perfect day to look at how I'm doing with my Lenten resolutions and discipline. Ummm, not so well, but I'm trying despite the daily distractions, my laziness, my rebelliousness. And every time I mess up, I get to realize my failure and make a new resolution to do better. Yes, it has been tough and I can only imagine what it's like for you folks with young families. I just have to remind myself that the whole point of Laetare Sunday is to encourage us as we move toward the end of this sobering penitential season. Side note -- we could decorate the altar with beautiful rose-colored flowers, but I think Fr. Ron dressing up in "PINK" will be enough.
On another note, last week a group of eminent conservative ethicists published a piece on why Catholics should feel no hesitation at using the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. All of them are leaders in the pro-life movement. Our Diocesan Bishop, Robert McElroy, forwards their statement to you because it splendidly encapsulates the relevant moral points on this question. It provides information that can help us with the whole topic of stem cell utilization. Simply click on the link below:
https://eppc.org/news/statement-from-pro-life-catholic-scholars-on-the-moral-acceptability-of-receiving-covid-19-vaccines/ Shifting gears again...WOW! Did any of you hear Bob Guarnotta's pulpit pitch for STL's Chapel Project Pledge last Sunday? (okay, try saying that three times really fast!) You can still view it on our YouTube page. It was not just about another, albeit vital, building project, but all about relationship. The most important reason for our existence as a parish is to evangelize and bring the Sacraments to us. We talk a lot about evangelization and can easily forget that evangelization is not a project. At its core, it's about relationship. Bob tells the story of his beautiful wife Penny (RIP), and how their relationship grew closer with Christ and each other through their experience of praying together in chapels across Italy. What a powerful witness! Bob so eloquently and sincerely inspired me and so many others to participate in building our long-awaited Blessed Sacrament Chapel. I know the pledge card doesn't include the option of a donation in memory of a loved one. However, you may do that by writing it in yourself. If you've already submitted your pledge card and want to make that designation, contact the parish office at (619) 442-1697 or email your request directly to our Business Manager, Jim Crockett ---
After a year of the COVID-19 pandemic.... who is ready for a reset? All are invited to attend a virtual workshop sponsored by the Office for Family Life & Spirituality and the Office for Evangelization & Catechetical Ministry with Dr. Ricardo Márquez as we navigate the emotional territory of these uncertain times and gain the knowledge and tools necessary to best care for ourselves and others. This workshop is a must for all those in ministry, whether serving the community or providing personal care for family members! Join us on Wednesday, March 24th, from 10 am – 12 noon on Zoom for the English session. Registration for this free workshop is required. For more information and to sign-up, visit our diocesan website --- www.sdcatholicdisciples.net or call 858-490-8234.
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Continue taking care of each other and let me know how we may help you.
From my heart to yours,
Jane A.
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