Happy Father's Day!

06-21-2020From Fr. Antony's DeskFr. John Barbella

Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers, grandfathers, godfathers, and spiritual fathers in our parish! Although my own father has been deceased for many years, I have so many fond memories of him. Even today, I am very aware of all the positive ways that he influenced my life! For this reason, I am always inspired when I see fathers spending time with their children – in church, on the sports fields, or just around the parish. You are all in my prayers today.

The fact that so many of you sent in your Father’s Day envelopes – with the names of fathers living and deceased written on them – tells me that many good men are in our prayers this week. As always, we will keep those envelopes near the altar for the rest of the month of June – and remember all the men named on them in our Masses and prayers.

Speaking of prayers, remember that we now offer a Mass every Monday at 7 PM for all those enrolled in our Mass Association. After Mass the Miraculous Medal Novena is prayed as well. For those who might not remember, we began the Mass Association because our Mass Book fills up so quickly each year. Those who want to have Mass offered for a loved one can enroll that person in the Mass Association. All those enrolled are mentioned and included in the Mass Association Mass for the next three weeks – and are listed in the bulletin, too. It is a good way to have Holy Mass offered for a loved one. It also gives those who wish an opportunity to attend a Daily Mass in the evening to do so.

About a month ago I told you that we would be doing some repair and painting in our Church this summer. Today, I want to tell you we have been asked by the diocese to delay that work until later in the year. With everyone returning to Mass at this time, I think a temporary delay is a good idea! Let’s get back to normal first – and then we’ll tackle this next project. The money – which comes from your generous support of our capital campaign – is set aside and ready to go when needed, so that’s not an issue. I’ll keep you posted as to the rescheduling of this project and, if we’re able to do so, have a little parish meeting to give you more details.

I am writing this article way ahead of when I usually do, due to my ‘virtual retreat’ and some other timing issues at the office. So I can’t let you know how the first public Masses in a long time went last weekend. Knowing the good people of our parish, I’m sure they went well! For the meantime, please continue to consult the parish website at spsj.org for more up to date details.

Please also say a Hail Mary for me today – and every day. And keep praying for increased respect for all human life and for the dignity of every human person – born and unborn, and of every race, nationality, and creed. May God – the Father of the whole human family – help us see and love each other as He sees and loves each of us.

Have a great week!

Fr. John

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