You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.

My dear friends in Christ,

Have you ever heard the expression: “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink?” The woman at the well in Samaria has come to the well for water. We all know the social implications—she came alone, a sign of her rejection by the community, a sinner, forced to draw water in the heat of the day, when others were not around. Yet here, to this rejected woman, comes Jesus, the very Son of God, to look into her heart and see that, while she is there to draw water, what she truly needs is so much more! How often do we go search for what we think will quench our thirst—fame, popularity, material things, etc … only to find ourselves thirsty again? How often do we turn away from God’s love, compassion, and mercy? So today Christ also comes to us, offering what we cannot draw for ourselves. Life-giving water awaits, but we must choose to drink it. Don’t be like that horse!

Last week we launched the Diocese of Trenton’s Annual Catholic Appeal. You know from experience how important it is for our Parish to be available to those who are struggling with their faith and everyday trials. With your generous contributions to the Annual Catholic Appeal we can support youth and family ministries, Catholic education, vocations to the Priesthood and religious life, and the charitable works of our extended diocesan family. If you did not fill out a pledge card last week or if you need to update your mailing information, please take a moment to do so and place them in the collection basket. As always, I thank you for your generosity.

May God bless you all!

Father John