Dear Parishioners,
Last week’s Installation Mass on the Feast of the Archangels was such a stirring, emotional experience for me. I started serving as your pastor on June 30 and much had happened by the official ceremony on September 29. Reflecting back on those three months filled my heart with gratitude. It was especially awesome to showcase our multicultural reality with so many ministries, groups, and languages participating. Each of our faith-filled traditions builds up this Mystical Body of Christ in Raleigh.
Positive momentum is clearly taking off with the Holy Spirit driving this creative growth. Our task now is to discern the direction for our parish to be the life-giving apostolate Christ desires of us. I am deeply grateful to the leadership of the Pastoral Council, Finance Council, parish staff, and many ministries who help guide and form my decisions along the way.
Discernment is about heeding the call of Divine love. As St. Ignatius of Loyola said, “For those who love, nothing is too difficult, especially when it is done for the love of our Lord Jesus Christ.” I ask you to pray over who you love, what blessings you have received from God, and how you might share your gifts with the parish as an expression of this love:
Are there ministries or groups in which you can participate or initiate?
Do you see a parish need where your unique gifts may be applied?
Can you increase your weekly financial contribution to support parish works?
Achieving great goals requires mission clarity, determination over time, and a steady commitment of resources. I look forward to many more years of service with you as together we grow closer to Christ.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
Fr. Tom, S.J.