Peace be with you!
In this exciting new week, we are reminded of the importance of the life of the Eucharist that our young people experience at their First Holy Communion. St. Pius X, made this experience possible to children who have reached the age of reason and are able to distinguish between ordinary bread and the consecrated host received at Mass. Let us take a moment of reflection to remember our First Holy Communion. Look at the pictures, video, or remember a memento that was given as a gift. Reflect on other First Holy Communions that you have attended: siblings, children, spouse, etc. In doing so, may we always promote the importance of that graced filled moment when God’s children of all ages and backgrounds are able to receives our Lord’s presence for the very first time.
At a variety of times, I have been testing the waters with regards to offering both species at Mass. I have made the cautionary decision to offer the Blood of Christ at one weekday Mass. In using the word cautionary, I hope to continue to evaluate this practice. The major obstacle will be the need for more Extra Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, particularly those willing to distribute the precious blood. Sacred Heart will be hosting a training session on August 26, from 6:00pm-8:30pm in McMahon Hall. If you are interested or know of somebody that may need a personal call, please contact the Parish Office. Other opportunities are also available for training.
In the next weeks to come, there will be installation Masses for me as Pastor of both Sts. Peter & Paul on August 29, at 4pm and Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish on September 13, at 10:30am. I invite you to attend. The installation of a new pastor, in my prospective, is an opportunity for the parish to celebrate the continued life of its particular parish journey. The role of the pastor will become evident in the presentation of the Parish’s Pastoral and Finance Councils and the Parish Staff members. It emphasizes the collaborative nature of the pastoral care of a parish community. I am grateful for those that have answered the call to serve with me in the parish community they represent. May God continue to bless the good work that has been started. Plan to stick around for the social afterwards.
Peacefully week!
Fr. Workman
