Beloved Family:
“They always talk about money!” Over the years, I have heard this comment made—often, it is part of a longer exposition on why a particular individual has ceased participating in the life of a Catholic parish. Of course, I understand that a talk on finances ought not displace the homily within the Mass. Still, it is tragic that any Catholic would deprive himself or herself from the priceless gift of Eucharist based on a pastor’s possible preoccupation with the material state of affairs. Alternatively, perhaps “Father” could be approached with a question such as: “How may we help you develop an approach to stewardship that addresses practical needs while still tending to the state of our souls?”
I am now going to speak about money. Namely, while I was away last weekend and we were visited by Fr. Tulio from the Yarumal Missioners, your hearts were evidently compelled by his testimony. Your generosity has provided over $4,300.00, to date, on behalf of the work of the missions through this appeal. Praise God!
We are once again approaching that time of year when the Sunday Mass schedule shifts from 10 am to 11 am. I have been approached by at least one parishioner asking if we can simply stay with 10 am, since PSR (now known as Anchor) is being shifted to Wednesday evenings. Allow me to communicate why I would not make a decision of that significance quickly. First of all, in the fall we commence with Coffee and Sweets. The opportunity for fellowship between the two morning Masses would be greatly truncated. That fellowship is an important element in the effort to build community.
It also can be a challenge (and this is a good thing) for the Celebrant of the 10 am summer Mass to transition from hearing confessions to preparing for Mass, when there is a higher volume of penitents seeking the sacrament. Additionally, there will still be some occasional formation meetings on Sunday morning, for parents with children who are in preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion.
Yet another important factor is this. While the distance between parishes in our deanery (geographical area of the diocese—for us, Wayne, Ashland and Medina counties) is significantly wider than many others, the bishop appropriately is looking to pastoral leadership to make efforts to design Mass schedules that complement one another. There are occasions when Fr. David and I are called upon to cover for another priest at a neighboring parish. We need to be able to meet our commitments here and still accommodate the needs elsewhere.
Speaking of deaneries, a very helpful—and entertaining—podcast episode is available, hosted by Fr. Ryan Mann (who spent a year with us as a seminarian intern back in 2010-11). In this episode, Fr. Mann interviews Mr. Robert Koonce, Director of Deanery Operations. In a brief period of time, they lay out the description and rationale behind the deanery structure. Here is the link for that podcast: https://basilthegreat.podbean.com/e/570-may-they-all-be-one-understanding-the-deanery-structure-with-fr-ryan-and-robert-koonce/.
Finally, I want to express my thanks to all of our “summer crew,” those who worked in our maintenance department over these past several months. They have been a great addition to the campus! Please keep Seth, Tony, Anthony and Reis in your prayers, as they begin a new year of academics (three students, one teacher).
Let His Peace be with you,
Fr. Stephen
