Perseverance

As the school year and life moves on in the Family of Parishes, I can see several common reactions to the ending of the old thing (life before Beacons), and the not-yet arrived reality of the new thing (a single canonical parish). We are amidst the “crazy,” or zone of transition. These features include things like discouragement, gossip, fear, backlash,

and a general uneasiness. This is understandable and, in fact, part of the process. So, know that while encountering these things can cause some level of discouragement, know that this is something we must go through. I am willing to experience some of the pain you are feeling to help get us through this difficult time. That is the part of my role as pastor: to be there for my flock in their struggle.

I also ask for your trust and patience. I know that you may not understand what is happening or why. I am trying my best, as are the parochial vicars and staff. We are trying to figure out how this works and the way forward, which is going to involve some difficulties and misunderstandings.

Please remember to turn to prayer and to ask the Lord to send the Holy Spirit on yourself, our parish staffs, vicars, parishioners, and upon me.

Please remember to ask the Holy Spirit to guide you as you make your nominations for the patron of NW-7. The deadline is November 1, which is the Solemnity of All Saints. Remember, All Saints is a Holy Day of Obligation. Please put it on your calendar now to ensure you get to Mass that day or to a vigil Mass the evening before. Here is the schedule:

•      Vigil Masses on Monday, October 31: 6:00 p.m. at Ss. Peter & Paul (SPP), 7:00 p.m. at Holy Angels (HA), & 7:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus (SHJ).

•      Masses on Tuesday, November 1: 5:30 a.m. at SHJ, 7:00 a.m. at SPP, 7:00 a.m. at HA, 8:00 a.m. at SHJ, 8:25 a.m. at St. Michael (SM), 8:30 a.m. at HA, 11:40 a.m. at HA, 7:00 a.m. at SM, and 7:00 p.m. at SHJ.

We did our best to give you some variety of times. We thought an early morning Mass (5:30 a.m. at SHJ) would be good for

those who must be at work at an early hour and may also have something else planned in the evening. Mark your calendars! Please note that I will be having an upcoming series of “Tavern Talks.” I will be making myself available at some local places over the coming months for you to come talk to me about your concerns, fears, and hopefully even some much-appreciated affirmations! I do not have dates down yet, but these will be shared in future bulletins, on the parish website, on social media, and via Flocknote. Thank you for your feedback in advance.

Thank you to all our catechists and teachers who strive to educate our children in the Catholic Faith. They all do so much to help parents in their role of raising their children in the Catholic faith. Remember to thank your children’s catechist and teachers for all that they do!

Peace in Christ,

Fr. Jarred Kohn