St. Joseph the Worker

Dear SJW Parishioners:

The summer is moving along too quickly!  I always say that once July 4^th happens, we are on the downslide towards school and autumn.  Let us enjoy and savor these summer days of vacations, rest, fun, and outdoor events.

This week is our Vacation Bible School.  I am grateful to all who have worked so hard to make this week very enjoyable for our younger children.  BRAVO to all of you, and thanks to all those children who will come and learn more about Jesus and the Catholic faith.  Special thanks to Coordinator JACKIE VISTE!

At times we need to have check-ups, do we not?  Our car should be checked periodically to see if we need new tires, oil change, new air filter, or other maintenance issues.  And, our bodies need an annual check-up to see about our heart, cholesterol, blood pressure, etc.  And, our homes need the same, making sure everything is in working order, especially our carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. 

Well---what about a faith check-up?  Yes, a faith check-up.  When is the last time we have made sure our faith lives are in the best working order?  Have we checked on the health of our soul lately?  If we have an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles for our car, what about ensuring that our faith is doing OK?

And that may mean changing some things that we do---getting rid of any anger, bitterness, apathy, hatred, or unforgiveness. 

And that may mean doing more---reading Scripture, praying the Rosary, going to daily Mass, reflecting on God’s beauty in nature, going to Adoration, reading a spiritual book, finding out about the life of a particular saint. 

And that may mean checking on our relationship with the Lord Himself.  Have we spent time together, growing in His love?  Have we listened to His call to be the best we can be in His sight?

Maybe it is time for that faith check-up.  Schedule one with Jesus.  He is waiting for you to come into His presence---His schedule is always open for an appointment!

Your Pastor, Father Joe