Dear Friends and Parishioners,
Last weekend was a very special day for me in
our parish community. Having my birthday (66
years young) and my anniversary to the
priesthood (35 years) occur on the same
weekend made the weekend joyful, especially
the singing of Happy Birthday and Happy
Anniversary at Mass.
The cards that came from many people also
reminded me of that for which we are supposed to be joyful. I would like to share some of the quotes from the cards:
“Yes, I know what plans I have in mind for you,
Yahweh declares. Plans for peace…to give you
a future full of hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
“Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)
“God’s rich blessings on your birthday… Joy and fulfillment, Peace and contentment, Rest and refreshment to enjoy his blessings.”
“The Lord your God… will take delight in you, in
gladness.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
“May flowers always line your path, and
sunshine light your day. May songbirds serenade you every step along your way. May a rainbow run beside you in a sky that’s always blue, and may happiness fill your heart each day, your whole life through.” (an Irish blessing) And so I say to you in thanksgiving:
“Do not be sad men and women. A Christian can never be sad! Our joy springs from our having encountered Jesus Christ. Trust in him because he never disappoints! He is a good friend that is always at our side; he is a patient father. May the joy and peace of the Lord be always with you.” (Pope Francis)
Peace and thanks for the prayers,
