We extend our sympathies to Jim Biando on the passing of his mother Julia. She was 89 years old and had a faith-filled life. She had a devotion to Mary as evidenced by the fact she always had a rosary with her. Julia also had a devotion to St. Christopher. She is remembered for her hospitality, her closeness to her family, and her efforts to live as a peacemaker. We entrust her into the loving arms of God who promises resurrection to those who believe in his Risen Son.
We also reach out our prayers for Bette Novak who attends the 8am Mass so faithfully every Sunday and to her husband Don. Their son Scott died suddenly at the age of 48. It’s a terrible thing for a mother to lose her child, but Bette turns to the Blessed Virgin Mary for help, remembering that she too lost her son at a young age. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated here on Thursday for Scott and he will be missed by all who loved him. May he rest in God’s peace.
Congratulations to Ralph & Dianne Buccier who celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary at the 11:00am Mass last Sunday. They look way too young to have so many years of marriage behind them! They have several family members who are connected to the parish and we are grateful for their long presence in the parish. May they have many more years together.
Last week I went to the feast (of the Assumption in Little Italy) with some staff members. The homemade cavatelli & meatballs & pizza & cannolis cannot be missed for even one year. I start at the bottom of the hill & walk up so that I’ll work up a bigger appetite by the time I get to the top. It’s a yearly tradition for me and a way for me to celebrate 50% of my ancestral heritage.
The roofers have started work on the bell tower of the church and the Parish Center. Then they will replace the roof of the church. I was hoping that these would be the last major projects we would have to deal with for a while, but of course the parade of repairs never ends. There are stone panels on the top of the newer junior high wing of the school (which match the arches on the church) and some of these are beginning to separate from the wall. We also have a couple leaks in the gym caused by the steel beams deteriorating behind the brick walls. So we have to remove some of the brick, repair the beams, and then put the bricks back in place. We are so fortunate to have the savings we need to make these repairs but it’s becoming more challenging to get ahead so that we can be prepared for whatever future repairs will be needed.
We welcome the members of the Knights of Columbus who will be joining us for the 11am Mass this weekend. It’s always good to have them pray with us. The same is true for anyone who visits our parish. In this place, you are always welcome.