From the desk of Fr. Steve/Del escritorio del p. Steve
Thanksgiving really is a special holiday in our country. It is one that I personally love and have some incredibly fond memories of. As a child we always went over to my aunts house and would celebrate with our larger family. We occasionally would go up North and get a place but that wasn't the norm. My favorite side dish was always the sweet potatoes with marshmallows; what was yours?
During this week we often hear a lot about what we should be thankful for: our family's, our work, our faith, our salvation, our health, our lives, our freedom, our country--even our church community. Right now in the climate of our culture we need to storm Heaven in Thanksgiving. Be sure to mark your calendars for November 19th at 7pm for our Encountering Christ at St. Francis/Maximilian where I will speak on Thanksgiving— being thankful.
This Thursday at our dinner tables let's all make sure we do two things: first, say grace! If your family isn't saying grace before each meal, what better time to start. You can keep it as simple as the "Bless us O'Lord ... " prayer or us a more elaborate prayer. But it is essential as Catholics that we give Thanks to Almighty God for EVERY meal (even when we're out and ashamed to make the sign of the cross). Secondly, in the course of the meal what a great idea it would be for each member of the family to share what it is we are grateful and thankful for. Another practice that can be adapted on a regular basis. Being thankful can't just be a once a year activity. This year Mass is at 9am on Thanksgiving day. What a great opportunity for us to give thanks to God for the gift of His Son.
While we're on the topic of giving thanks, I would first like to give God thanks for you. These two parishes have been such a blessing to me. I love it here and, in more ways than one, wish we weren’t in the Covid era right now. Please know of my prayers and pray for me. secondly I would like to give things for Fr. Chris: for his friendship, leadership, and guidance over the last year. Every conversation has been worth having and filled with wisdom. I love you my brother. I am so thankful for these past 11 months.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! As you gather around your table, remember to pray for Fr. Chris and I and know of our prayers. I pray you can join us for Mass on either the 25th at 7pm at SFSM or 26th at 9am at SMMR.
