From the Pastor's Desk

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As many of you are probably aware 2026 is a rather significant year in terms of the history of the United States. And while there has been plenty of news stories throughout, I’m referring more specifically to the fact that it’s the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As someone who was not around for the Bicentennial of 1976 and likely won’t be around for the Tricentennial of 2076, this is likely the bigges

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, This Sunday is Father’s Day, and while it traditionally coincides with the conclusion of our annual Carnival, this year, due to how the calendar has fallen, we get to celebrate it distinct from that. As such, allow me to present to a section of scripture speaking to the value of honoring both fathers and mothers, that comes from the 3 rd chapter of the Book of Sirach. Children, listen to me, your father; act accordingly, that you may be sa

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Given the craziness of the Carnival and other pressing concerns, please allow me to a slight diversion with my letter this week. I may or may not, be in a bit of time crunch as I write this, given that it’s just several hours before the Carnival begins as I sit down and type. I’d like to speak about an exciting experience I’ll get to have this summer and consider the wider impact these kinds of experiences have on us all. I am generally sp

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, You’ve seen the signs around town. You’ve witnessed the building and progress being made in the parking lot. Many of us have already purchased our ride tickets. No doubt about it: the Carnival is coming to town! In many ways, it’s hard to believe that the Carnival is already here. This is especially true this year, given the way that the month of June falls and the fact that date-wise, this is about as early our Carnival can possibly be. A

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The Church this week is making a major transition in the liturgy. We are going from the Easter season into Ordinary Time, but with a very important step in between. And while it’s really weekend celebration, it’s hard to overstate the importance of Pentecost in the life of the Church. Sometimes referred to as the Birthday of the Church, this celebration of the coming of the Holy Spirit is worthy of our attention and further reflection. The

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, At times, you may occasionally hear me joke around by saying such things as, “that’s why they pay me the big bucks” or “this is the kind of thing they DON’T teach in seminary.” Let me assure you, they are said in jest; my salary as a diocesan priest is not substantial and there are plenty of things that seminary did not cover in my general education for the priesthood. However, there are many things that I have learned as a priest over the

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The Church looks at the family as the smallest unit of “church”. It often refers to the family as the Domestic Church in its writings and documents. This isn’t some rhetorical flourish or fancy title for family life, but rather a recognition of the role the family plays in the life of faith. But it also signifies the way in which the Church looks at itself as well, seeing familial bonds as being at the very core of what she is. And with th