Beloved Family:
In the interest of full disclosure, I need to let you know that I recently acquired a tattoo—okay, so it is of the “temporary” kind, and it was applied last Thursday, during our Saint Mary School Family Fun Night. It was a lovely evening, and the families attending gave every indication of having a most enjoyable time. Now, we do our best to savor the remaining days of summer recess.
By the way, while we realize many families have already chosen a school for their child at this point, please keep in mind that Saint Mary School is here to offer an excellent education. There was a time when finances could really pose an obstacle. However, with multiple aid/scholarship programs currently in place, a Catholic education is more accessible than ever. Our new principal, Mrs. Tiffanie Gaffney, would be delighted to meet with parents and families interested in learning more.
In contrast to my temporary tattoo, we know that the sacrament of Baptism places an indelible seal on our souls, praise God. At various times in life, we realize, our Catholic identity can be put to the test. I consider the point at which young men and women leave home to start college to be one of those times.
To that end, next weekend, August 8 and 9, Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception parish will participate in Sunday Send-off, an initiative of Newman Connection, designed to help students become connected with college Catholic campus ministry, virtually wherever they are attending. Our Faith is a precious gift. Let us work together to encourage our sons and daughters to continue their formation as disciples, regardless of what course of academic or technical studies they are pursuing.
Speaking of continuation of formation, this past Monday, Fr. Rich Samide was formally installed as the ninth pastor of Saint Angela Merici Parish in Fairview Park. Bishop Michael Woost served as the main Celebrant, and there was quite a good representation of Saint Mary parishioners in attendance, along with Fr. David with me. I am sure Fr. Rich would delight to receive cards and notes from the community where he “cut his teeth” as a newly-ordained priest. Here is his mailing address:
Rev. Rich Samide
Saint Angela Merici Church
20970 Lorain Rd.
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Those families who bring their children to Saint Mary on Wednesdays for Anchor, Edge and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, look for a colorful card in the mail with details on registering for this coming year. We are excited as we anticipate the start of a new year of faith formation, including an expanded Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (our ministry for Pre-K and Kindergarten ages)—two sessions. Check out our various communication tools (bulletin, email, website, etc.) for further information.
And speaking of communication, it has occurred to us that the parish bulletin has tended to be heavy on information related to events and coverage of past events. I believe that is appropriate. However, as we look at bulletins from other parishes, they additionally carry articles and resources for reflection and catechesis. Therefore, beginning with this issue, look for those kinds of features as well. We hope that they will serve to encourage faith conversations and “holy play” within our homes.
Let His Peace be with you,
Fr. Stephen
