Pastor's Note: January 12, 2025

Friends,

Our Celebration of Christmas comes to an end today with the Celebration of the Lord’s Baptism.  Today, the Voice of the Father resounds from Heaven and pronounces Jesus the Beloved: “You are my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Lk 3:22).

Today is also a great opportunity to be reminded of own Belovedness (probably not a real word): Beloved Sons and Daughters by our Baptism in Christ. Since Christmas we have reading the First Letter of St. John at weekday Masses and he has been reminding us of our Belovedness to God the Father and to keep that identity front and center in our lives and minds as we go about our day. We know have several weeks of Ordinary Time to encounter the Lord in deeper ways and to grow in Him, by Him, so that we may come to know Him more deeply and know our Belovedness for deeply. So, let us soak up and “count up” (that’s what “Ordinary Time” means) these weeks leading up to Lent (Ash Wednesday, March 5). 

Finally, an invitation and a preview of coming attractions:

1. The Invitation: this weekend at Masses we’ll be invited to join either Beloved 90 (for women) or Exodus 90 (for men). If you’re interested in joining either one of those or want more info, follow this link to our website: https://www.mqpwg.org/adult-faith-formation

2. A Preview:  for those who don’t feel called to either one of those but still called to “do something” for Lent, there is something coming and I think you’ll like it very much. It’s open to all parishioners and while it’s still taking shape I can tell you that it has the potential to enrich and deepen your life and your Life with Christ. More to come. 

Ok, friends, peace and prayers for you!