My dear Friends in Christ,
Today The Church celebrates what has been traditionally called Gaudete Sunday, or Rejoice Sunday, marked by the contrasting rose candle on the Advent wreath and rose colored vestments. The fulfillment of Christmas is near and today’s readings revel in it with phrases like these: Shout for joy, Sing joyfully, Rejoice in the Lord always! Zephaniah even tells us that God will sing joyfully because of us, as one sings at festivals. On other Sundays, the readings are often full of challenges and questions. Today it’s all about promises and assurances.
A couple of weeks ago, we released the end of year Financial Statement. I am filled with joy that we have been able to make some progress and reduce our debt somewhat. We have a long way to go. In a parish filled with a diverse faithful people full of love for each other and for Our Lord, I am humbled at the financial sacrifices that you and your family make for Corpus Christi Parish. I am filled with joy that through your stewardship, our parish ministry programs and outreach are sustained. We did finish the year with a deficit and with your help we can chip away at the debt. Some ways that will help are continued support during the 2nd Collection for the Parish Debt Reduction, on-line giving which comes directly to the parish, giving stock to the parish, and remembering your parish in your Will.
We welcome Mike Cerrino from the Malvern Retreat Center’s Speakers Bureau to speak to the Men about their annual retreat. What a great way for the men to start off the New Year!
May God bless you all,
Father John