Dear Parishioners,
Merry Christmas and blessed new year! I hope this posting finds you well. It is at this time of the year that we look back on what God was doing in our midst.
As for me, this past year has been a continuous celebration of many glorious “firsts” in view of our new church building. We celebrated our first Christmas in the new church. I will never forget the beauty of the 35 ft. Christmas trees in the Sanctuary. They were breathtaking. We also celebrated our first Easter Vigil where we offered immersion baptisms in a fount worthy of the Sacrament. The Blessing of the Easter Fire went smoothly, for I no longer needed to use a megaphone, but rather just a wireless handheld microphone, and the outdoor speakers in the front of the church worked perfectly. In the Spring, we hosted Bishop Peter for the Vicariate Mass of Confirmation, and we were well suited to seat all who came. When Summer began to wind down, our “Trinity Windows” were raised up into their frames above our heads on the South side of our church. One word: Magnificent! All of these things have given us so many ways to give God the glory! I am still pinching myself. What do you remember? What about our church has spoken good news to you?
Finally, this year has also been one where we have said goodbye to some amazing people. We prayed them into eternity. While this may seem to be sad news, for me sadness is not the ultimate story. Indeed, these individuals, our beloved faithful, I have given me great hope in the Good News of life after death and the Resurrection of the body. Our faithful departed are people who have lived lives of Christian example which have inspired me and challenged me. Thank you, Lord, for their example of courage and faith! Who has died this year who has encouraged you and lifted you up? Maybe spend time praying for them and giving thanks for giving us their examples. We have been privileged to have lived in their lifetimes don’t you think? I certainly do. Praise God for them all!
Merry Christmas. And blessed New Year
Fr. William Holtzinger
Pastor