The Christmas season is officially behind us and Lent will be upon us in about four weeks. My, how the time does fly!

The fleeting nature of time reminds us of the need to focus on the essentials in our life. Some consider food and shelter as the only essentials, but far above those necessities is the need to be grateful for what one is given, and to be humble enough to express gratitude.

Gratitude is a way of living, an attitude, and a virtue for every Christian—including your Parish Priest. In that light, I want to take this occasion to thank all who continue to support our parish through their tithing and financial support!

Through these lengthy months of the pandemic, you have helped to keep us going by means of your generous donations and giving. I am so grateful to each of you for doing the best you can. We are a little church, but one supported by big hearts, so, thank you!

I also want to say thanks for all those who volunteered before, during, and after Christmas, helping with the decorations, singing in the choir loft, lecturing, and ushering. I can’t forget to say thank you to all who took the time, and who continue every day, cleaning up and disinfecting the Church after each and every Mass.

This pandemic has been made more bearable because of the time and talent of so many. To those of you who’ve attended Mass because of the hard work and sacrifice of others, maybe it’s time to consider your expression of gratitude. We can always use more volunteer help. Sign up in the narthex (vestibule) of the church.

This is a great parish to be the Pastor of. You have made my time here (can you believe it’s been seven years now) very blessed and refreshing. Thank you for all your love and support. During this year of our parish namesake, let us pray to St Joseph for his continual intercession for each of us and our families.

May God continue to keep us safe, bless us all, and bring a speedy conclusion to our COVID-19 experience.