I am so grateful to not only be your pastor here at St. Jude Church but also to be a part of our parish community. These past seven plus years that I have been here have been so fulfilling and rewarding for me. It is amazing how much has happened during these wonderful years; the creation of the new St. Jude Shrine and surrounding landscape, the refurbishing of the church, COVID-19, Family Ministry events, Trunk o’ Treat, Annual Summer Barbecue, Summer Prayer & Praise at the Shrine, Live Streaming Sunday Masses, … . And now we are in the midst of our celebratory year of our 75th Anniversary!
There are many who have been a part of the parish since its early days and many who have been here since birth. There is something truly special about our St. Jude parish community. I think it’s called FAMILY. With our own families who we share the joys and sorrows of life together and yet always giving thanks to God for His blessings on our journey so, too, is it here at St. Jude Church. We come together every Sunday in communion to offer God our prayers and praises, receive the Eucharist, and yet we also leave the Church and live the Eucharistic life of Christ as the family of God, brothers and sisters united in the love, mercy, and graces of God.
Now we are preparing the events of this year of celebration. As I look through the photos of years past it is humbling to see how each passing generation has helped build up our St. Jude Church. Hearing the stories from you about having been married in the old church or how we used to celebrate Sunday Mass at the Parish Center are just two examples of what it is when a parish celebrates 75 years. It is another expression of the movements of life and how it can grow and flourish when one allows the Spirit of God and His love to take hold of our hearts and lives in building up the Kingdom of God.
On Saturday, August 3rd, we will have our Celebration Mass at 4pm immediately followed by a cocktail hour and buffet dinner in our Parish Center Hall. A 20-piece Swingtime Big Band will transform us back in time. I invite all to participate in the celebration, perhaps be a part of 75th Celebration journey, by attending the event or supporting our keepsake Journal!
The memories will always be there and for good reason. Memories are a part of our lives that help us to see and recognize how our past is a part of our present and will be with us in our future. Things just don’t happen, but with patience and experience we grow and become what and who we are today. We remember our past, learn and appreciate the days long ago, whether it be our own lives, our family life or as a family here at St. Jude Church. In all of our days, past and present, we also see the presence of God.
Yes, sometimes we don’t understand the reason or why of what has happened in our lives. We all go through heart aches and pain, no doubt, but thanks to our faith in Christ Jesus we move on for the journey of life continues. We believe Jesus is our Lord and Savior. He came into our world to rescue and save us. In the midst of danger he protects us, for he is our refuge. We must never succumb to despair, discouragement, or doubt, for God wants us all into one family in His Kingdom for all eternity. Let the memories of joy, peace, and love keep us strong.
I want to express to all our Dads here at St. Jude Church a blessed and Happy Father’s Day. You are part of the fabric of family that protects and provides with the bond of love you have with your wives the foundation for your children. May the Holy Family: Mary, Joseph, and Jesus be with you and your family as the guiding light throughout your life. Enjoy the day with your family!
St. Jude, pray for us ~
Blessings,
Fr. Ryan
