Dear Friends,
June brings before us many moments of celebration!
I presided at our first of eleven weddings this year on June 4th! Emily and Austin proclaimed their vows and commitment with much joy, faith and enthusiasm! It was a beautiful and sacred occasion.
I've been honored to attend High School graduation parties and have more ahead to attend. Our young people bless and affirm why I love my vocation!
Baptisms are taking place which is a sign of hope and the Lord's powerful presence is in our midst. Every time I renew my baptismal promises and invite you to join me in doing the same, I feel a tug of the Holy Spirit refreshing my life to say, yes Jesus, I desire to follow you!
Last weekend at Saint Catherine's we acknowledged at our Saturday evening mass the eleven individuals who completed their journey of the 19th Annotation. This wonderful sacred prayer was led by Dr. Damian Zynda. I was privileged to go through this experience myself three years ago and I am still experiencing the graces of growth and inspiration where my life is called continually to grow and be receptive to the graces of the Holy Spirit.
I thank Damian for her wisdom and devotion to bring this wonderful blessing before all who participate. Blessings to Cathy Battaglia, Kevin Carges, Brett Daggs, Bill Hulbert, Leslie Hulbert, John Hurley, Mike Larche, Karen Luke, Donna Mihalik, Carol Krebs and Kathy Kyhos who journeyed in a blessed year! And now we pray for those who will discern their call to experience this gift!
And this very weekend is Father's Day.
I remember lovingly my dad and all the men and other individuals who have been instrumental in my life. "Fathers" come in so many descriptions. Those individuals who have given us their love, encouragement and support are prayerfully acknowledged today! And it is also this Sunday, Juneteenth! Monday will be a legal holiday and so Diocesan and Parish Offices will be closed.
Juneteenth. Do you know about it?
Sadly, many Americans do not. Juneteenth(June 19th) marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops' arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday. Did you learn about this in school? I do not remember learning it and I was a history lover. As, Michelangelo once said, I am still learning. Isn't that a wonderful gift, to be still learning?!
Thank you everyone for your ongoing love, support, presence and stewardship to our faith communities. I am grateful to each and everyone of you.
In faith and love,
Father Rob