The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph

Dear Parishioners,

     Happy New Years!  As we come to the end of the year I feel like it is a good time to say thanks to all those who serve our parish.  We all can take people for granted.  I could not do my job as pastor without the assistance of many dedicated people.

     The first individuals I would like to acknowledge are Fr. Matthew Cole and Deacon Pat Murphy.  Fr. Matthew came to us last July.  He has been a special gift to us all.  I was the only priest for six months during the first part of the year.  It was exhausting to try to keep up with the schedule.  Fortunately, the SMA Fathers were able to loan us Fr. Matthew.  He will be with us for at least the next year.  It is always interesting to live with a missionary.  Missionaries seem to adapt well to any situation.  Fr. Matthew has fit in here at Sacred Heart.  He is especially willing to visit the sick and infirmed.  If you have not talked with him about the African church I would encourage you to do so.  It has also been a privilege to get to know Deacon Pat these last three years.  I find him to always be willing to pitch in and help whether that is with leading devotions or assisting with funerals.  He is a very committed servant of God. 

     I would also like to recognize the rest of the staff here at our parish.  I could list them all, but that is done in the bulletin every week.  I have found them to be dedicated and passionate about their various tasks.  I know they always want to serve all of you to the best of their ability.  I would encourage you to thank each of them as you see them the rest of the Christmas season.

     As we move into the New Year, I thank all of you who are parishioners for supporting the ministry of Sacred Heart.  If you do that directly by giving of your time to ministry, hopefully you find it rewarding.  If you do it with your prayers that is important as well.

     On the Feast of the Epiphany next Sunday, January 7th we will be having an open house for all those sitting on any committee or serving in any ministry.  It will be from 1-3 p.m. at the rectory.  Please stop by and let us express our appreciation.

Happy New Year,

Fr. Mark

P.S. Thank you to all who sent cards and gifts to me during the Christmas Season.  I appreciate your generosity.  I am happy to be your pastor and serve you.  I thank those who pray for me each day.  I need all the help I can get.  I apologize for those times when I have not been as responsive as I could have been.