Over the past weekend we had three wonderful and very Holy Spirit filled celebrations of Confirmation at our parish. We were able to “stream” the Masses for family and friends of those confirmed who could not be with us in the Church of St. Mary. There were over 1,000 people streaming the Confirmation Masses. Some families were waiting on the church porch to congratulate the recently confirmed. It was a beautiful and special weekend. 

I visited my mom on Sunday and shared with her stories of the weekend at St. Mary’s. I told her that I was able to confirm the students, having them complete their sacraments of initiation. She said, “Wow that sounds wonderful. Did you get paid extra for that?” with a smile and smirk on her face. I told her that my joy was increased by being able to confirm the students that I have seen grow and mature over the last four years since coming to St. Mary’s in July of 2016.

 I am still learning and believe, pray and hope I will remain a lifelong learner. 

At the Monday Mass this past week, the “streaming” of Mass was interrupted by technical issues. Last week we tried using a new camera and new technology to improve the visual quality of the Masses that are streamed. In that process I learned that the troubles may exist in the homes of parishioners and friends trying to watch the streamed Mass. The technological issues may be in the connection to our internet provider, or perhaps the age of the laptop being used for the streaming or even the potential of the camera not linking up with the above items. I am learning that there are many changes each and every day, each and every Mass, each and every experience to live and offer patience to others. Yes, I am a lifelong learner. 

This Saturday I am away from St. Mary’s officiating at a wedding at Gesu Chapel on the campus of Marquette University. When working with the couple and helping prepare them for the sacrament of marriage they provided me with copies of their baptismal certificates. The bride is a child of lifelong friends of the Nacius’. I baptized the bride back in 1992. I enjoy celebrating the sacraments of the Catholic Church. I think this is the first wedding, maybe second, of someone that decades earlier I had the privilege to baptize. Your pastor isn’t getting any younger.

Normally this weekend or next weekend, we would be welcoming a missionary to St. Mary’s to speak on behalf of the Summer Mission Cooperative of the Archdiocese. Every year people from over 100 international missionary dioceses speak at parishes across the Archdiocese. The presentation at St. Mary’s and other parishes is not able to take place this weekend because of travel restrictions this summer. The need is as great if not greater to support the mission church around the world. This year funds collected through the Mission Appeal at St. Mary’s will be directed to support the work of Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ. They serve our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world, including in Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Cameroon, Kenya, Tanzania and Sierra Leone. To learn more about the ministry of the Sisters as well as other ministries guided by God’s grace being accomplished and supported by generous Catholics please follow www.WeAreMissionary.org/coop  and look at https://ihmsistersng.org/

In their appeal, they state; “As life becomes increasingly difficult, our hearts go out to people who have little or nothing to eat. Our Sisters undertake to feed the hungry in some of the countries where we serve. Your contributions and donations will enable us to continue to uphold the dignity of the human person by bringing the Compassion of Christ to our brothers and sisters in their need, and thus fulfill our mission in the Church. We do also appreciate your prayers for the success of our mission.” If someone wishes to donate online using a credit card they can go to www.WeAreMissionary.org/give . Our parish will be given credit if the donor identifies they are part of St. Mary’s.
 
This summer, individuals, families and parishes are dealing with economic needs and challenges. Many parishioners have remained consistent in their support of the parish during the pandemic. Thanks to all who continue to financially support the work and ministry of the church. You may also consider giving online, sending a check to St. Mary’s or placing an envelope in the collection basket as you leave the Church of St. Mary. 
God bless you with the heart of a missionary this day.