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This weekend we’re charged anew – as we are at the end of every Mass - to go out and spread the Gospel through the example of our lives. That's a tall order when times are turbulent, but that’s the expectation. Psalm 117 encourages us, from Heaven and across time we receive the comforting reminder (like the recent rains) that
…steadfast is his kindness toward us,
and the fidelity of the LORD endures forever.
We’ve got so much good news to share with you this week beginning with GRATITUDE for your generous response to Fr. Dan Noll’s appeal on behalf of the Mission Diocese of Lexington. The deep poverty experienced by the people of the region was worsened by recent flooding. Fr. Noll’s message for us to practice Resurrection in places of Crucifixion resonated profoundly with our community.
Our pastoral reflection is from our Director of Parish Life, Sharon Lehtonen. She describes her tenure at St. Austin and how she’s witnessed the generosity demonstrated here. Learn how Sharon’s been changed by what she’s seen in our community of faith at Reflection from the Parish Staff.
If we’re called to LIVE our faith for all to see, we need to know its beliefs – we must be formed in our faith. This weekend and next, the parents of Faith Formation children and youth will have orientation and book pick up. Classes begin soon – as do Bible and Book Studies for Adults and RCIA Classes. To register for any of these programs link to Faith Formation.
The impact of Fr. Noll's message echoed in a request for hospitality ministers by Patti Gullahorn at the 11:30 Mass. At all Masses last weekend we encouraged the community to serve as greeters, receiving people into our Church with a smile. Patti noted that serving as a family is an enriching experience as children and teens become aware that they're part of a larger family and that their welcome affects others. Patti shared, "While we may never know the struggles people bring with them to our doors - everything we do in welcome matters." It's easy to volunteer - individually or as a family - at Liturgical Ministry.
What better news to share than the arrival of a baby! The Gabriel Project is proud and humbled to accompany families facing challenging pregnancies and struggling with little ones under age two. We’re grateful for your wholehearted support. Learn about the baby and more at Gabriel Project.
The turbulent times we alluded to earlier are the consequence of increasing polarizing rhetoric. YOU can help us move toward civil discourse by participating in Want to Talk? – Communication Tools in Divided Times. A team of parishioners and Director of Social Justice Ministries, Kristen Dempsey Pasyk, will facilitate the conversations. Note the change to the starting date -find details and the sign-up link at JUSTMatters.
There’s soaring good news about our SACS Eagles! For 105 years our parish school has collaborated with Austin families to raise and educate generations of lifelong learners. The Bishop and Superintendent of Catholic Schools recognized
St. Austin’s School, faculty, and staff with length of service awards. Find photos and more to be proud of at Light.
There’s more to be proud of when you see the delight shining on the face of a recipient of a gift of comfort from our community. Find a smile just for you at Prayer Blanket.
Who makes up our community? Our Guidebook & Directory knows! That little book has long been a treasured resource in many households! In fact, in more than one family, tussles are known to erupt over who didn’t put the directory back! We need your help to make certain that our information is accurate! Please turn your careful attention to Directory.
In addition to good news, this edition offers many invitations to gather and get to know others – find still more at Events, including ~
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Holy Cross Parish for a Movie Night on Friday, August 26 to watch A Place at the Table – African Americans on the Path to Sainthood. RSVP now to enjoy snacks, warm hospitality, and meet new friends. Your invitation’s waiting at JUSTNews.
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Breakfast is served! As a welcome back to all students, our KCs will sell tacos in 6 varieties ($2.50 each). Find them on Sunday, August 28 after the 8:45 a.m. Mass in the Ministry Center - dine-in or take-out. There’s more to know about this organization in the Knightly News.
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And supper, too! Join the festivities on Saturday, September 10, after the St. Austin’s 5 p.m. Mass at the St. Austin Catholic School Annual Spaghetti Dinner. Come to San José Parish Hall, 2435 Oak Crest Avenue - it’ll be fun - purchase your tickets at SACS.
Even some longtime parishioners didn’t know we own a parking garage! It’s a five-minute walk (or less) and better - free for parish events! Whether you’re coming to Mass, to the Ministry Center, or planning any event at St. Austin’s, we have one stop with all you need to know and share about Parking!
When construction ends, the Paseo will make the walk even shorter. The new photos and progress points for the week are at Construction Updates.
You’re always welcome to join us for coffee & more after the 8:45 and 11:30 Sunday Masses or the free simple suppers after the 5:30.
Sharing the good news with you is something we love to do! Because YOU’RE the source of it. Your engagement in and support of the mission and vision of our community is what allows us to bring God’s Love to our time and place!
Thank you!
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