Posted on May 30, 2025 View all Pastor's Letter
Dear brothers and sisters,
This Sunday, we joyfully celebrate the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. It is a time of great joy and hope we could never have imagined, since we are given the words of salvation. The Lord Jesus has not only risen, conquering death and sin but has also been taken up to the glory of God! But before returning to the Father, Jesus sent His disciples to evangelize all people that they may believe in Him and so may join Him where He is. “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:15-16).
This salvation that is given to us consists, ultimately, in living the very life of God, as the Gospel according to Saint John tells us: “Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ” (John 17:3). But what is given out of love, must be accepted in love, in order for that gift to be received. Jesus Christ (who we have not seen) wants us to offer our love to Him through our faith, which we receive by listening to the words of His ministers (whom we can see and feel). Let us feel loved and sent by the Lord and commit ourselves to being true proclaimers of the Gospel.
Next Tuesday, June 3rd, we will celebrate a momentous occasion—Father Ramón’s Silver Jubilee of Priesthood. It marks 25 years of priesthood and dedicated service to the Lord and the Church. His priestly ministry truly blesses us. In thanksgiving for his ministry as a parish, we will hold a small celebration that depends on everyone’s generosity. As previously announced, we will have a potluck next Friday, June 6th. I hope everyone can participate in this beautiful celebration. I also invite everyone to offer a prayer for the ministry.
Changing the subject a bit. This month, we began reviewing our database and discovered that many parishioners are registered but have no record of their recent participation in parish life. We want to express our gratitude for your past involvement. Most of you receive donation envelopes, but we have not received confirmation that they are using them. Many last donated or showed signs of participating almost two years ago. Remember that the life of the parish revolves around your weekly participation; please let us know if you are still attending so we can at least be sure you are active. At the same time, I encourage you to use the envelopes to make your donations. Your donation to the parish is vital; it keeps all parish activities alive. However, you can donate online if you forget to bring or use the envelopes. Starting July 1st, we will begin purging the database and save a little on the cost of envelopes and postage. I hope for your understanding.
Finally, I invite you to pray and thank God for the gift of the priesthood. This Saturday, June 7th, our bishop will ordain 12 new priests for our diocese. This is a great blessing for the diocese and the Holy People of God. This fills us with joy and hope; it means we are on the right path and vocations are flourishing. May God bless these new priests as they begin this great love adventure for Jesus and his Church.
I wish you a happy week. I keep you in my prayers.
Fr. Alex
