Remembering & Looking Ahead

Memorial Day Recollections and Reflections

My father spent four long years as an active duty soldier on the European front during World War II. In the infantry, he participated in three major invasions: North Africa, Sicily and finally Normandy, landing there on D-Day. On the front line during much of his active duty, he felt blessed to have survived when so many of his friends and fellow soldiers did not. He always expressed profound respect for his comrades who gave their lives in battle and, for that reason, Memorial Day was always a significant holiday for our family. Our observance always included Mass and cemetery visits as we prayed for those who sacrificed themselves in defense of freedom.

Memorial Day ought give rise to prayers of gratitude for the scores of men and women who put their lives on the line so that we could enjoy essential freedoms including the freedom to worship in accord with our beliefs and conscience. Take a few minutes on Monday, May 26, and spend time giving thanks for the many men and women, past and present, who have sacrificed on our behalf. Consider attending Mass that day (8:10 a.m. at St. Gerard or 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery). May we never forget the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our nation.


Thank you to retiring parish council and commission members

On Pentecost each year we select parishioners to fill the seats of our parish councils and commissions that are being vacated by those completing their three year terms. This year 38 parishioners are finishing their term of service on our various councils and commissions. In the name of the whole parish I want to thank them for offering their time and talent in the service of the parish. As members of the Parish Council, Finance Council, the Education, Social Ministry, Worship, Activities, and Spiritual Development Commissions and the Athletic Committee they have provided leadership and direction for important areas of parish life. Often working behind the scenes, their service has been invaluable. Again, thank you to all whose terms are coming to a close this June.

As we thank the 38 whose terms are ending, I urge a new generation of parishioners to step forward to fill their seats. The bulletin lists the names of the various councils and commissions and gives a snapshot of the work they do. You don?t have to be an expert to place your name in nomination for one of these seats. During your term of service you learn a lot about parish life and have an opportunity to give direction to important aspects of parish life as we seek to be all the Lord has called us to be. I pray that at least 38 parishioners step forward so that the good work of those whose terms are over can continue for the good of the parish.

Fr. John Klein, Pastor