6/26/2022

The ordination anniversary of our two new deacons took place on June 18th, the Feast of St. Gregory Barbarigo. Every year on their anniversary will be our parish’s patronal feast, though we may transfer the celebration to the nearest Sunday. The ordination ceremony was beautiful at St. James in Liberty, MO, and the reception of our new deacons was well attended. Deacon Randy Holtman assisted and preached at the 8 AM Mass, while Deacon Mike Casteel assisted at the 10:30 AM Mass after which he led the Eucharistic Procession. The Mass was a children’s Mass, and as usual they added a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Thanks to all who helped to plan and bring about the celebration of this past weekend. It was a good effort by all who were involved. Hopefully we can relax and enjoy the June 26th parish celebration this weekend – we have much to be thankful for in this parish!
Monday, June 27th, I will be heading out on vacation, mostly to visit friends and relatives in MO and IA, plus a trip to Santa Fe to visit a niece. I will return the evening of July 14th, and have Mass on Friday, July 15th. Please pray for safe journeys.
Another thing that I wanted to do last week but did not have the space is to write in appreciation of our faithful fathers on Father’s Day last week. The year of St. Joseph served to call attention to the role of the father in the family – a role that often is carried out in quiet service and constant commitment that can go unnoticed, but makes a huge difference in the life of the family. John Eldredge in his book, Wild at Heart, describes men as energized by an adventure to go on, a battle to fight, and a beauty to rescue. Those traits, when channeled properly and disciplined, allow a man to be the protector and defender of his family. Healthy fathers tend to give financial support, structure and discipline, and a safe environment for their families to grow and prosper. Another author, Fr. William Jarema, describes what parents or significant caregivers give to their children in the traditional family. He uses the analogy of a bucket with water within. The water represents the fluid interpersonal skills provided by the mother, and the bucket represents the structure of the container given by the father. The container sets boundaries and limits, protects and defends, excludes certain things, holds safe the contents. Children with a good father will know how to say “NO!” effectively (set boundary), defend themselves, take their place in society as a productive member without being exploited, manage anger, etc. Some of the dysfunction in our society can be placed at the feet of men who have failed to be good fathers. I want those fathers who are conscientious to know of our appreciation for them and what they do. Your children will never be able to thank you enough!
It is a joy to be your pastor.

Father Albert, O.S.B