Father Carl “Buster” Melchior
Last Saturday a new priest was ordained for the Diocese of St.Petersburg, Father Carl “Buster” Melchior. It was a beautiful celebration. Father Carl has been assigned to St. Catherine’s on Belcher Road. Please continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Every Wednesday we have Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from after the 9 o’clock Mass until 7pm. One of our prayer intentions is vocations. This is an opportunity to spend some quiet time in the presence of the risen Christ, to deepen our commitment and discipleship with him (our baptismal vocation) to strengthen our marriage, family life and friendships. To surround who we are and what we do in prayer. If you are able to spend some time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament please sign the list in the Narthex. I also encourage you to sign up for the travelling chalice. We are invited to take the chalice home as a visible reminder to prayer for vocations. A family that prays together stays together!
While the Holy Father, Pope Benedict, was in Nazareth, during his recent visit to the Holy Land, he spoke about the special role that children have in leading their parents to holiness: “Children have a special role to play in the growth of their parents in holiness. I urge you to reflect on this, and to let the example of Jesus guide you, not only in showing respect for your parents, but also helping them to discover more fully the love which gives our lives the deepest meaning. In the Holy Family of Nazareth, it was Jesus who taught Mary and Joseph something of the greatness of the love of God his heavenly Father, the ultimate source of all love, the Father from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name. (cf. Eph 3:14 – 15).” Our first communion Masses displayed the great love and reverence children have for Jesus. Their faith strengthened mine. Thank you children! May we continue to strengthen family life through the gifts of prayer, understanding and compassion.
A number of our young people are ending and beginning a new chapter in their lives with the graduating ceremonies that have and are taking place. We pray for all the young people who are graduating from Elementary School, High School and College. I was impressed with what President Obama said to the Graduating Class of 2009 at Arizona State University: “As you think about life after graduation, as you look in the mirror tonight, you may see somebody with no idea what to do with their life. But a troubled child might look at you and see a mentor. A homebound senior citizen might see a lifeline. The folks at your homeless shelter might see a friend. None of them care how much money is in your bank account, or whether you are important at work, or famous around town – they just know that you’re someone who cares, someone who makes a difference in their lives.”
Our parish school eighth grade students graduate on Tuesday, May 26th at 7pm. The ceremony begins with Mass, you are invited to attend. Please come and support our young people, the Church of today and the hope of tomorrow.
Monday is Memorial Day. I encourage you to come to Mass and to pray for all who have given their lives in service of their country, to secure our peace and freedom. We pray for those who serve in the military today, especially in Iraq, Afghanistan and other war torn areas of our world. May they return safely to their families. May the peace of the Risen and Ascended Christ fill our hearts and homes, alleluia!
- Fr. Gary Dowsey
