Dear Friends,
I am sure you have been joining our communities, the Sisters of Mercy and myself in our sorrow at the deaths of Sisters Arlene Semesky & Joanne Deck. What a tragedy and loss of life for so many. These dedicated women have been serving so generously in the name of the Lord for 59 and 57 years respectively.
They, and their two other sisters in the car were on their way to Sunday Mass. I am confident the Lord was right there to bring Sister Arlene to the eternal banquet as He was the other day when Sister Joanne went home to God. Please join me in continuing to pray for the eternal peace of Sisters Arlene and Joanne, for the solace and faith for their communities, families, friends and for all those involved in this accident.
Many folks have been asking me about our young friend we have been praying for, Jack Tvrdick. First, I want everyone to know how appreciative Jack is, and his parents, Glenn and Tammy are for all your prayers, cards and thoughts. Yes, the power of prayer is phenomenal! The good news is that Jack has had his feeding tube removed as “he has made great strides in eating and is now fully eating.” as shared by Glenn and Tammy. Jack still has a long way to go, but we are moving forward with prayer and the love and blessing of Jesus Christ. I told the family of your inquiries and they are ever so grateful!!! If you would like to send this young man a card (maybe another card…) you may bring it to the office and we will be sure he receives them.
Thank you everyone for your prayers and cards. You are healing blessings of hope for our friend.
Our 40th Anniversary of the Church of the Transfiguration is approaching so soon, August 6th ! I am looking forward to this celebration and gathering with everyone (from both Transfiguration, St. Catherine of Siena and beyond) for our 10:45 A.M. Sunday Mass with our celebration to follow on the church grounds. Picnic tickets for the gathering have been available and I hope you have bought one, like myself, to be part of the blessing of these forty years.
I have been enjoying our weekly bulletin articles highlighting some of our wonderful history that brought the Church of the Transfiguration to fruition. Sue Wallace’s words and music we enjoyed for the dedication of our worship space ( I was there!) , the history of the origins that created our cross that tops our beautiful church and Charlie Newton’s reflection on the Eucharist which is so appropriate for our anniversary and as we reflect on Eucharistic Revival. All have been wonderful reminders of where we have come from and where we are heading. So much to be grateful for as we go forth and “Strengthen the Vine” entrusted to each and every one of us!
Thank you to our witness in “Strengthening the Vine” and being wonderful, faithful stewards to our beloved parishes, St. Catherine of Siena and the Church of the Transfiguration!
Blessings abound,
Fr. Rob