On this final day of a very short Christmas Season, I wish to thank the many of you who shared with me your Christmas wishes through gifts and baked goodies. I received so many cards and kind sentiments this year, in the midst of a very busy season. Thank you to each and everyone of you. I was simply overwhelmed this year by the generosity of so many.
I want to also thank the many people involved in our parish community in preparing and executing a beautiful holiday season. From all those involved in liturgical ministries, to all those who were instrumental in singing or playing instruments, to those who help to decorate all three churches; to those who clean on Wednesdays and other days to keep our churches beautiful and clean; and to those who worked quietly behind the scenes. There are so many to thank and I am so grateful that we are blessed with wonderful parishioners who love their parish and come together to make these days special.
In a very special way, I want to acknowledge the men who planned and work hard to finally place the new cross on Our Lady of the Sierra Church. The cross is beautiful, and the shape below the cross mimics Half Dome in Yosemite Park, with the cross on top to signify God's presence in our mountain communities. Father Herman, who had dreamed that this cross, which was on the original plans, but never completed, was sent pictures of the completed project. He will return to Oakhurst to personally see the cross this summer. I blessed this cross in honor of Father Herman and in memory of our beloved Bishop John Steinbock, who dedicated the church some eleven years ago. Thank you, gentlemen … well done.
On Christmas Eve morning, our parish lost a very dedicated parishioner in Dr. Ed Santoro. I want to acknowledge many of the ways Ed was instrumental in the spiritual life of the parish with his dedication to the Marian Hour and First Friday Adoration, and to leading the many rosaries after daily Mass. We pray for his widow, Katie, who will continue working in our office and we pray for his family in their loss. May God grant him eternal rest.
Next Saturday, January 15th, the Diocese of Fresno will ordain sixteen men to the permanent diaconate. His Eminence, Cardinal Roger Mahony will return to Fresno to ordain these new permanent deacons. We ask that you keep these men and their wives in your prayers as they prepare to the serve the future of the diocese of Fresno.
No comments:
Post a Comment