Last year as we journeyed with St. Mark, he started his gospel with:  The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In his short gospel, St. Mark helped us understand the truth about Jesus, as the Son of God. In fact, towards the end of his gospel, at the crucifixion scene, he affirms this truth in the words of the centurion as Jesus breathed his last: “Truly this man was the Son of God.”  Mark guided us in unraveling the meaning of this title. In short, to be the Son of God means to manifest who God is in His life. Everything He said and did was all about God. As we went deeper into Mark’s gospel, what is interesting to note is that he invited us to discover how we, too, are God’s children. In Jesus and through Jesus, we share in that gift.

As we begin a new liturgical year, we are given the opportunity to have St. Luke accompany us. Luke does not only continue to remind us that we are God’s children, but he tells us how much God loves us. Reading his gospel, we will encounter some unique stories that describe this love- Jesus’ birth in a stable, the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, the prodigal son and many more. In his gospel, Luke describes God’s love as universal and unconditional. It is a love that is offered to ALL.

I believe it is providential that as we launch our Pastoral Plan, with the theme of Radical Hospitality, we will read from Luke’s gospel. St. Luke will tell us how we must live like Christ, which is to love, understand, forgive, and welcome, like Christ. Christ’s life and ministry are all about radical hospitality - a hospitality that is grounded in the love of the Father for all of humanity.

The purpose of the Pastoral Plan is to enhance our lives as disciples of Christ through Worship, Spiritual Formation, and Family Life. Let us face it, the pandemic has impacted our spiritual lives. There are people who have been complacent in their relationship with the Lord. My hope is that the Pastoral Plan will guide us through the next 3-5 years in invigorating the life of our parish community.

The year 2025 is a special year for our Church. It is a Jubilee Year. Pope Francis has declared this as the Year of Hope. Keeping in mind the theme of the jubilee, I am hopeful that you will join me, Fr. Robert and the rest of the parish staff and leadership in the implementation of the plan. I am counting on your continued participation and support.

Lastly, Fr. Robert and I assure you that we remember all of you and your intentions in our daily prayers. We ask that you include us in your prayers as we both continue to lead you in our journey of faith. May this Jubilee Year fill your hearts with hope, faith, and love.