From the desk of Father Joe
Dear Parishioners of Holy Spirit,
May you each cherish this week the blessings that have been bestowed upon us by our loving God. Take the time to give thanks, not only for our life, family, but also for the Spirit that lives in each of us to do the will of the Father. Let that Spirit move in all you say and do. A blessed Thanksgiving to you all.
Secondly, I'd like to invite you on Saturday, December 4 to join me in exploring the season of Advent. Advent is such a beautiful season that often times gets put on the back burner because of so many other events and activities that surround this season in Church and in our larger society. On December 4 after 5:00 Mass, I will help us look at the history of the season; its biblical themes and where the season is leading us as a Church in preparation, not only for Christmas, but the entrance of Christ in our lives every day. We will also have a chili supper; please RSVP below. I hope to see you December 4 at 6:00pm.
Finally, here is a table blessing for your Thanksgiving table:
Lord God,
our hearts are crowded with gratitude
as we celebrate the feast of Thanksgiving.
We have come to this, our feasting table,
with great joy and eagerness,
for we are truly grateful to You, our God,
for all that we have been given.
We pause now and in silent prayer,
do thank You for the great generosity of Your gifts.
We also thank one another for gifts-
especially for the gifts of love and affection
that we have freely shared.
We are thankful
for all who are present at this our feast,
as well as for all those who have labored in love in order to bring this meal to our table.
May You, our God, bless this Thanksgiving feast
and all of us who shall share it in Your holy name: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
+Amen
(from Fr. Ed Hayes)
Blessings,
Fr. Joe
