January 17, 2021 - 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time |
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"Samuel was sleeping in the temple of the LORD where the ark of God was. The LORD called to Samuel, who answered, “Here I am.” Samuel ran to Eli and said, “Here I am. You called me.” “I did not call you,” Eli said. “Go back to sleep.” So he went back to sleep. Again the LORD called Samuel, who rose and went to Eli. “Here I am,” he said. “You called me.” But Eli answered, “I did not call you, my son. Go back to sleep.” At that time Samuel was not familiar with the LORD, because the LORD had not revealed anything to him as yet. The LORD called Samuel again, for the third time. Getting up and going to Eli, he said, “Here I am. You called me.” Then Eli understood that the LORD was calling the youth. So he said to Samuel, “Go to sleep, and if you are called, reply, ‘Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening." ~ Samuel 3
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One of my favorite Old Testament readings comes from the book of Samuel, chapter 3. If you have a Bible at home, this is a great passage to read to your children. Whether we realize it or not, we all have a special vocation that God gives us to accomplish on earth. Our "job description" may evolve and change throughout life, but it always has significant importance. As faith-filled Catholics, we seek to cooperate and enter into closer union with the Holy Trinity: God, our Heavenly Father, Jesus, His Son, and the Holy Spirit; in whatever responsibilities entrusted to us in this life. As young Samuel was attuned to God's voice, it required the wisdom and guidance of Eli the prophet to help Samuel understand and recognize the quiet voice of God calling out to him. We need the love and support of faith-filled people in our life so that we too can recognize and listen to the voice of God working in our life.
Who has been that guiding teacher in your past?
Who might inspire you today?
How are you called to respond to the younger person in your life who needs your example and support?
Scripture is the "living Word" that calls forth faith and trust in God. Scripture reawakens the voice of God... "Speak Lord for your servant is listening!"
In conclusion, we certainly have lots to pray for these days! May we together pray to God for our country, our incoming president and our elected officials that we may support one another as brothers and sisters. Let us also pray for stressed first responders, our parishioners serving in the National Guard, and those serving the health care system during these pandemic days, that they may know of God's love for them as they put themselves at risk in service to others. Let us also pray for parishioners who are sick, in quarantine, and for those who have died.
May God bless you!
Fr. Gonyo
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Lenten Reflections for Small Groups |
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There is power in personal prayer, and that power is magnified when shared. This year, as we continue to navigate the realities of the pandemic and such unrest in our world, the staff would like to invite you to share together, yet separate, in reflection and prayer. Many of you belong to a small group that is anchored in faith and in parish life; bible study, Knights of Columbus, Family Formation Groups, and Rosary Groups – just to name a few. We ask that you consider using a shared resource called: “Lenten Longings for the Life of the World” for your reflection and sharing this year. The resource is published by RENEW International and is based on the daily scripture readings. The materials include individual booklets, a leader’s guide and a music CD. If your group is interested, please contact Sr. Karen at 544-8880 x1110 or sr.karen.dietz@dor.org to learn more.
Also, if you are interested in starting or joining a group, please contact Sr. Karen. God, working through us, can accomplish so much more than we can ask or imagine.
Let’s do this together!
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Join together, virtually, with others in our community to explore and learn the basics of our faith. Our small group discussions lead to a greater understanding of faith and connect us together in these difficult times. Catholicism 101 meets Wednesday evenings from 6:45 to 7:30 pm on Zoom. Videos and materials are sent ahead of time for your viewing. You are welcome once, twice, or every week!
Join us January 20th as we explore the Sacraments of Initiation - Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist.
Upcoming topics:
January 27: Sacraments of Healing - Penance & Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick
February 3: Sacraments at the Service of Communion: Matrimony and Holy Orders
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Catholic Ministries Appeal |
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Together our parish family shows love, responsibility, and service to all of our members and our community. The CMA helps support our parish and all that we do together at Saint Kateri.
To date we have raised 55% of our 213,706 goal. A gracious donor is willing to match, dollar for dollar, any new or increased pledges from last year!
To donate, please pick up an envelope at Mass or use the link below. When giving online, please be sure to indicate: "Saint Kateri Tekakwitha (357)." Or use Text to Give (be sure to indicate our parish number "CMA357"). Thank you for helping our parish shine the light of Christ in our community!
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Thank you for your generosity and support! |
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