St. Joseph the Worker

Dear SJW Parishioners:

School is open!  The buses are out and about, streets are alive with cars dropping children off, teachers are back at their desks, and the students are super-excited (aren’t they?). 

This time of year leads me to reflect on the GREAT young people we have in our parish.  I have been so impressed with them since my arrival.  Whether they are helping serve at a function or serve at Mass, they are willing to do whatever is needed.  Many have gone on QUEST and Catholic Heart Work Camp to enrich their lives and share God’s love.  The VBS was aided by young people volunteering to help.  Some have been aides to the catechists in the FF program.  And there are many other instances where our youth have stepped up and put their faith into practice.

Some of the joys of my priesthood---seeing young people celebrate and grow in their faith; seeing them experience the Lord’s presence and being aware that the Lord loves them and cares for them; knowing that the Catholic Church is important in their lives; having the youth reach out in service to the needy and poor.

Our parish and our diocese and our Catholic Church are graced with the presence of young people.  Let us all pray for them daily, that any problems or anxieties they may be having will soon be resolved.  Let us hold them in our hearts, always having their well-being in mind.  Let us be examples of adult Catholics we hope they soon will be.  And let us be challenged by them to always be “young at heart” when it comes to being disciples and stewards for Jesus Christ.

Your Pastor,

Father Joe