Dear Friends,  

Our annual FALL FESTIVAL is next Saturday, October 24. It begins with our 4:30 pm Mass, followed by a celebration with food, candy for the kids, games, entertainment, and the opportunity to meet new people. It will be on the east end of our campus in the parking lot. The Mass will be our Family Mass, with the children being invited to join us during the homily time. They may even wear their costumes if they wish. I look forward to another great crowd for this celebration. (Please note, the Parish Office will be closed at 12:30 pm on Friday in preparation for the Festival.)

WEDDINGS AT ST. PATRICK continue to increase, and many people are contacting us for marriage preparation. I asked last Sunday for parishioners to consider joining us for the ministry of being a wedding host, offering hospitality and welcoming all who attend the wedding. We have a team of ministers already, but we would like to increase the involvement. Contact the parish office to inquire about this ministry. Another way our parish offers the gift of welcome to all who enter our sacred space and campus.

CATHOLIC TEACHING ON THE DEATH PENALTY- Many are aware of the recent events in our country that have stirred the conversation on the death penalty. Pope Leo has spoken about this issue recently, and a brief quote is included. We remind Catholics and everyone that our Church has a strong teaching against the death penalty. Included are Pope Leo’s links to his homilies, Vatican News, and writings that can give more insight. Click below for more information.

LAST SUNDAY’S HOMILY- The scripture readings from Isaiah 25 and Matthew 22 remind us that making God and Jesus known is not about deciding who is in or out. Rather, it is making sure God’s invitation is offered to every person. The images in the readings reveal God’s worldwide plan of salvation, where all nations will gather together. So how do we make sense of this idea offered to us? Listen to the homily by clicking on the logo below to hear some insights from me.