Dear Parishioners:
---The “reunion of the Holy Land Pilgrimage” from our two sister’s parishes - Prince of Peace and St. Gabriel - a few years ago will be after 11 AM Mass today at St. Gabriel Parish, at the Community Room. Their gathering is an event to reconnect and sharing their faith journey with one another and any others who are interested in this once in a lifetime story. Our parish community also welcome these opportunities – “Home Comings … Reunions …” to help people gather back efforts as a small groups or organization or collective as a faith community in this coming year.
---From today’s Gospel of Luke: The real question posed to Jesus is: “Will only a few be saved?” Jesus answers by saying that the initiation is open but the way into the Kingdom is narrow and demands a more than casual interest. The “door of opportunity” will not remain forever open.
To be saved as Christians, we must acknowledge Jesus now as our LORD. From today’s Gospel we learn that Jesus may not recognize everyone who bears the name “Christian,” but he will recognize immediately all those whose lives bear the stamp of “Christian.” Each of us must rethink whatever notions we have of the Kingdom of God, and of who will be saved. Those we think least likely to enter may be the first to do so, and vice-versa. Salvation is a life-long journey, along which we are found and chosen by God. On the journey we become friends with God and with one another, and enter more deeply into the holy mystery of the divine. Furthermore, the whole transformative journey is made in love.
Has anyone ever asked you if you have been saved?
But their question is one that must be dealt with, especially for us Catholics who aren’t often versed in the biblical language of salvation and who are not used to providing an answer to such an essential question. The next time we are asked if we have been saved, we might do well to ponder the idea a bit, and we may be pleasantly surprised at the results of our reflections.
Also, praying for the salvation of others - On August 27th, the Church remembers St. Monica, mother of St. Augustine. If anyone ever prayed for the salvation of a loved one, it was St. Monica. Many parents who confided in me their concerns and worries for their children, I speak of St. Monica to each of them, reminding them that she is a great intercessor for parents and children in distress.
---If you ever been asked to share or explain your faith and hesitate of how to start …!!! Come and join with “other inquirers” to learn, share and refresh the gift of our
Catholic faith. Please talk to the RCIA Team Members. Please check the bulletin in regard to any Religious Program or call the Religious Office for more information.
---While we still in the Summer time, I’d like to take this opportunity to thanks all of our parish Liturgical Ministers - Greeters, Ushers, Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, Sacristans, Altar Severs, Church Environment Committee - who have served our parish Liturgical Functions throughout the Summer.
---Check with the Faith Formation Office and the bulletin for registration for First Holy Communion and information on Confirmation.
---While enjoying the “Summer rest”, please don’t forget our parishes – Prince of Peace and St. Gabriel. Have a wonderful week with Jesus
- The True Treasure of our lives.
Christ’s Peace,
Fr. Phuong Hoang