Posted on November 15, 2024 View all Pastor's Letter
Dear Parishioners,
This Sunday, the Gospel gives us much to consider and apply to our lives. First of all, on the cross of the coin, we find the disqualification of the rich. But in this case, it is not about rich people in money but about rich people with an excessive fanaticism of their religion and traditions. Let me explain: it is about those people who feel satisfied with their religious knowledge and practices. Just as those rich in money love to be recognized and have their “category” revered, these “rich in religion” also love to be considered the best, revered very specially, and have the front rows reserved for them. It is their pride and woe to those who dare to treat them as simple, ordinary citizens.
We, too, are always in danger of falling into this temptation. We may not be aware of it, we may dress it up in different clothes, but we must recognize that it is straightforward to detect in many Christians this pride of believing themselves better than others, of wanting this to be publicly acknowledged, of being treated as if we were in a privileged category that does not admit criticism or jokes. We must be simple like the widow, who invisibly for the people around her opens her heart and gives everything she has, becoming visible and significant in that moment directly for God. We must imitate this humble woman, who, without being recognized by men, becomes excellent for God; to give God everything is to gain everything.
In September, we conducted a survey to invite your feedback about the parish, particularly on areas where we can improve and how we can better serve our community. Your thoughts and opinions are invaluable to us, and it has taken some time, but I have finally reviewed the results.
I am deeply moved by the level of participation and dedication shown by each one of you. Your responses have been a source of encouragement. The overwhelmingly positive feedback on most questions is a testament to our shared commitment to the parish. I am particularly heartened by the absence of any recurring concerns, a sign of our collective contentment.
The comments, however—I will be honest with you—were, at times, difficult to read. Many were very critical. I understand these frustrations and share many of them myself. I appreciate your trust in sharing your candid feedback.
I cannot promise I will be able to address every question and concern, but I can promise I will take your feedback to heart and pray for it. To affect many of the desired changes expressed in the survey, more parishioners need to get involved in the parish, particularly in leadership roles. Please pray for this intention.
Let us all pray for a renewal of joy in our parish. Joy is not just a feeling; it’s a powerful force that can unite us and bring us closer to God. Let’s make joy the defining characteristic of our parish, inspiring us to serve and love one another.
Thank you again for your response to our parish survey.
Have a lovely week.
Fr. Alex
