Father Mike's Message - 05/08/2022

Dear Parishioners,

Happy Mother’s Day!

On this day let us remember our Moms and all who filled that role for us.  We pray for them and thank God for the love, nurturing, care, and compassion they have shown us.  We thank them for their patience and even for the “tough love” they have provided for our benefit.  Whether they are alive or deceased, let us allow their influence to continue to inspire and shape us as we strive to give that same kind of love and care to others.  Moms, we are grateful for you!  Thank you for all you have done for us and for all you continue to do.  Our prayers are with you on this special day to honor you!

As we enter further into this wonderful month of May, let’s remember to focus a bit more on our relationship with Mary, the Mother of Jesus.  She is the ultimate example of faithfulness for us.  If you don’t have a regular practice of it, try praying the Hail Mary during the day or setting aside time for a Rosary or even a decade of it.  It’s even a neat practice to talk to Mary about what’s going on in your life - the joys and challenges, your intentions, etc.  She’s a great advocate for us and intercedes with the Lord on our behalf.  She loves us and wants us to be close to her so she can help us be closer and more united to Jesus.  I hope and pray we all take this opportunity to grow in our prayer, devotion to, and in our relationship with Mary and Jesus.

Please pray for all those who will be graduating this spring and preparing for the next step in life.  It’s a wonderful time for them but it also poses some challenges for the changes ahead of them.  As a Parish Family we can support them, celebrate with them, and pray for them.
 
Thank you again for considering a gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal.  As Rob & Moira highlighted in their talk at Church, the ACA helps people all throughout the Archdiocese, regardless of their faith, including locally here in the Washington area.  Our Borgia High School received a check recently for $141,000.  Our parish received a grant of $40,000 to help with the air-conditioning project in school a couple of years ago.  On top of these, there are many individuals who receive counseling assistance, help with basic needs, tuition assistance, etc.  No matter the size, your gift will be added together with the gifts of people from around the Archdiocese and it will make a difference.
 
Have a blessed week.
 
Fr. Mike