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A Special Message from Father Francis
FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK, JULY 4-5, 2020
THE GLORY THAT WILL BE REVEALED IN US
Dear brothers and sisters,
How are you today? I pray that you are blessed! Permit me to preface my notes this week with a passage from the Holy Bible.
The sufferings of the present are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed in us. Indeed, the whole created world eagerly awaits the revelation of the sons of God. Creation was made subject to futility, not of its own accord but by him who once subjected it; yet not without hope, because the world itself will be freed from its slavery to corruption and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God (Romans 8:18-21).
This is true because the Lord of life always has the last word and he is the truth that cannot deceive nor be deceived. There will come a day when we shall sing the song of victory and thanksgiving. We would say in the word of the Psalm,
Had not the LORD been with us, when people rose against us, Then they would have swallowed us alive, for their fury blazed against us. Then the waters would have engulfed us, the torrent overwhelmed us; then seething water would have drowned us. Blessed is the LORD, who did not leave us to be torn by their teeth (Psalm 124:2-6).
On that day, many things that look nebulous and confusing now will become clear. For the Lord says, “Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known” (Matthew 10:27). May we also remember this admonition in all circumstances and especially in our present situation:“Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
DESIRING TO REACH ALL WHO WANT TO BE REACHED
As I send this message, I know that there are people who do not do email or Facebook! Nevertheless, I want to reach them where they are, so that we may stay connected and not become strangers to one another. Nature abhors vacuum. When there is no news, gossip and susuratios take over! I wish that I always have plenty of news! Truly, I am jealous of people who do not get involved with the internet! They have great peace! I do not think that you want me to make up news! I can create some but it may be fake news! Please let me know topics that I might address to keep people informed, especially if the information cannot be found on EWTN or other reliable sources.
HERE ARE THE FEW THINGS I KNOW...
A NEW DECREE FROM OUR BISHOP
Some of us may not realize that the Churches have been reopened for people to attend Mass. We can have about 50—75% capacity of our Church at St. Augustine. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Holy Mass is extended until September 4, 2020. If you are sick, have an underlying health condition or in the vulnerable age bracket, please utilize the dispensation.
OUR NEW BOOKKEEPER: Please join us in welcoming Joni Crocker. She starts work on July 1. Ironically, Joni is the person who trained our retired bookkeeper so she is very familiar with the system used by our Diocese. She will be working fifteen hours each week.
A BIRTH INTO ETERNITY:
Mrs Emma Williams, the beloved wife of Thomas Williams and the mother of Thomas Williams II, Stephanie and Rhonda Williams passed away. Her funeral Mass will be here at St Augustine on Monday, July 6, 2020. The program is as follows: Visitation 10:30am - 11:30am, Rosary at 11:30. Mass at Noon.
As Catholics, we pray for our loved ones who have passed away, asking God our Father to receive them into the peace of his kingdom. We also pray for the bereaved that God will grant them consolation and healing as they mourn the death of a loved one. May the soul of Emma and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace!
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:
RCIA for this year started last Sunday. The meeting is every other Sunday at 9.30 am. At this time, we have one candidate - Crystal Biddle. If you are interested in making this journey of faith and discovery, please call me at this number: (901) 482-4963.
MAY THE LORD LET HIS FACE SHINE ON YOU.
May the Lord bless you and keep you safe! Happy Weekend! See you soon!
Love,
Father Francis Chiawa
