Posted on March 6, 2026 View all Pastor's Letter
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
On this Second Sunday of Lent, the Word of God brings us to the mountain of the Transfiguration. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John with Him, and there He reveals His glory. His face shines like the sun, His garments become radiant with light, and the voice of the Father proclaims: “This is my beloved Son; listen to Him.”
This moment is not simply a supernatural event. It is a gift of God meant to strengthen the disciples before the trial of the Cross. In the same way, Lent is our invitation to “go up the mountain” with the Lord — to draw closer to Him in prayer, to listen more attentively to His voice, and to allow His grace to transform our hearts. Our faith cannot remain routine or superficial. We are called to be changed by Christ so that our lives may increasingly reflect His light and love.
As we continue this Lenten journey, I ask you to keep in prayer our catechumens and candidates who are preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. They are experiencing a profound time of conversion and encounter with the Lord, and our prayer is a powerful support for them. As in past years, we will celebrate the Scrutinies and other OCIA rites at the 12:00 noon Mass. These rites are not only for those preparing for the sacraments, but for our entire parish community. They call all of us to deeper conversion and remind us that we are a Church that walks together, prays together, and supports one another in faith.
I would also like to share an important decision I have made after much reflection and consultation with the Finance Council and other advisors. We will be installing a small fence around the church property.
I understand that some may have concerns or questions. However, over the past three years — both personally and through our security cameras — we have witnessed troubling situations in the parking lot during nighttime hours: vandalism, disrespect of church property, inappropriate behavior, prolonged unauthorized parking, drug use, and even reckless car racing that has begun to damage the pavement we recently repaired at great expense.
As your pastor, my responsibility is not only to care for the parish’s physical property but also to protect the sacredness of this space dedicated to God. Many of these incidents occur late at night and are not visible to most parishioners, yet they must be addressed for the good of our community.
While final details are still being worked out, our intention is to close the parking lot overnight while maintaining limited access for those who come for scheduled Adoration and prayer times. Once a clear plan is finalized, I will share all the information with you.
I kindly ask for your understanding and support. Every step we take is meant to safeguard our parish family and ensure that our church grounds remain a place of prayer, respect, and encounter with the Lord.
Thank you for your trust, your generosity, and for walking together as a parish family during this holy season of Lent. May the Lord transfigure us with His grace, strengthen our faith, and make us instruments of His love.
With my prayers and blessing,
Fr. Alex
