A Message from Father Bill Swengros

My dear friends,

 Today is a special day of celebration as we observe the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, the World Day of Prayer for Peace, and New Year’s Day!  It is a time of new beginnings as we recommit ourselves to become authentic disciples of Christ, the Prince of Peace.

 As we begin a new year, it is good to pause and to reflect on our lives and how the Lord is calling us to grow.  In the garden of our lives, is there any portion that needs to be weeded of bad habits or sinful tendencies?  Is there any portion which needs a bit more TLC so that it can flourish in the sight of God?  Don’t make your goals too high or difficult to achieve but truly reflect on what would help you to truly grow spiritually.

 Need suggestions?  1) If you are not praying each day and prayerfully reflecting on the Sacred Scriptures, do so!  2) Make a commitment never to miss your Sunday obligation.  3) Get involved in a parish ministry.  4) Reach out each and every day to someone in need.  5) Make each Friday a day of prayer and abstinence for those most in need of our prayers.

 Feel overwhelmed by the demands of life?  Learn from Mary.  Rather than reacting to the events of life, she prayerfully reflected on them.  It seems to me that far too often as we experience the hurricanes of life, we forget that we are called to remain in the eye of God rather than the wall of the storm.  By “treasuring these things in her heart,” Mary was able to respond to the events of the day and to see God’s hand in them.  A powerful lesson for us all!

 On another note, Fr. Jose, Fr. Emery, and I would like to thank you for the many cards, gifts, and prayers offered to us during this Holy Season.  We all feel so blest to serve you as priests and pray that this New Year will be one of special grace and blessings for you and your loved ones.  Indeed, on behalf of all the clergy, staff, and faithful volunteers of St. Stephen, have a Happy New Year!

 In His Most Holy Name,