A Gospel Reflection
by Deacon Joe Coan

Wednesday, April 22nd
2nd Week of Easter  
Gospel  John 3:16-21

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe in him has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only son of God. And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come towards the light, so that his works might not be exposed. But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God. John 3:16-21

Everybody who believes will live

Today's reading contains the famous verse that some call “the Bible within the Bible”:

         “For God loved the world so much
         that he gave his only son,
         so that everyone who believes in him
         may not die but have eternal life.”

This verse sums up the entire biblical message. It also affirms the two major biblical truths. First, God took the initiative to save us. Sometimes preachers give the impression that God is more interested in condemning than in saving. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Second, the verse affirms that God's initiative was motivated by love. God could not bear seeing his children wander farther and farther from home.

Are we totally convinced of God's fatherly love for us?

In the words St. Augustin: “God loves each one of us as if there was just one of us to love.”

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BOARD OF EDUCATION
APPLICATIONS DUE
Are you passionate about Catholic Education? Are you willing to share your time, talent and treasure to ensure that St. Augustin leads the way in preparing our children to live faith filled lives? Are you willing to share your thoughts and ideas to constantly improve the future through the education of our youth? If so, please prayerfully consider submitting your name for consideration of a three-year board term. Board applications can be downloaded at this link .
Applications must be returned by April 24th, 2020 to the school office .
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If you have questions or ideas of how you could help, please talk to our Community Outreach Manager, Holly Ackermann hackermann@catholicchariitesdm.org to get connected!

St. Mary of Nazareth | Director of Elementary Faith Formation
Pre-K - 8th Grade for Small Elementary Faith Formation Program
This position works in close collaboration with the Director of Youth Ministry, the Director of Adult Faith Formation, and reports directly to the Pastor for all programs under their supervision. This is a part-time position requiring some evenings and weekends.
Desired Qualities :
  • Communication skills
  • Organization
  • Team builder
  • Passion to build up the family unit
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Theology or related field
  • Agrees with the Catholic Church and her core beliefs
  • Practicing Catholic
  • Ministry experience preferred
  • Basic technology skills preferred (Microsoft office products, email, TVs, DVD, projector, microphones)
If interested, applicants should contact Fr. Greg Leach frgreg@stmarysdsm.org or 515-276-4042.