Dear Christ Our King and Savior Family,
I knew that I liked this parish the moment I arrived. The location is fantastic, the rectory is amazing, the building is beautiful, and the people have been welcoming and all together wonderful. I've found Christ Our King and Savior Catholic Church to be a place that I was very happy to call home.
That all changed this past weekend.
As I sat under the tent in the parking lot in the incessant mist and showers Saturday evening, and then again in the social hall after the Sunday Masses, watching, listening, taking in the talent and the goodness of so many of our parishioners, knowing that a year of grace is about to unfold in this parish with the Year of Prayer, my heart swelled with joy, with pride, with gratitude. This past week, I began to
love
this parish.
Any relationship takes time to develop, be it a friendship, a romantic interest, even the bonds that hold families together or the ties that bring us together in a nation or society, or even a parish family. And somewhere in the inter-working of big events and quiet moments these relationships are forged and strengthened. With the first "major event" like the Year of Prayer Kick-Off Events now joyfully celebrated, I've had my first experience of the that part of this community's heart, and what a heart it is!
Through the tireless work of the Stewardship Committee, the logistical work of the office staff, the outstanding performances of our singers and dancers--of every age!--the expertise of volunteers...it all came together so marvelously. I sincerely hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did.
And the Kick Off wasn't the only "first" in my time with you!
I was also blessed to visit Martha's Closet this week, a ministry that provides the struggling neighbors of Sparta an opportunity to "shop" for their basic necessities, without cost! We had an army of parishioners out there stocking, organizing, prepping, encountering.
Then we also had our first Men's Group meeting, sharing bacon, brews, and great conversation. Many men shared what they see as avenues for their further conversion and discipleship, and it will be an honor to journey with them as we continue to meet, pray, and grow in faith.
With so many good things going on, I want to showcase to the parish family and the wider community all that is taking place here in our parish, the reasons we love it here.
We now have a Facebook page where pictures and videos of our events will be posted, so I encourage you to click here:
https://www.facebook.com/COKASCatholic/
and "like" the page so you will see the post updates.
Thanks again for being an amazing parish family.
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Michael
Parochial Administrator
