Father Joe's Letters

Sunday, August 9, 2026

Parishioners of SJW Parish:

We are so fortunate in our Catholic faith to have role models to pattern our lives after. They are the men and women who have given of themselves for the Lord. Some have paid the ultimate price, giving their very lives for Him. Others have established hospitals, schools, institutions of learning. Some have taught and written so that we, the faithful, could grow in the Faith. Whether they are declared Saints or not, they are those examples to us of how we are to witness to Jesus Christ.

Take this week in our liturgical celebrations:

Monday, Aug. 10^th, Feast of St. Lawrence, Deacon & Martyr

Tuesday, Aug. 11^th, Memorial of St. Clare, Virgin

Wednesday, Aug. 12^th, Optional Memorial of St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Religious

Thursday, Aug. 13^th, Optional Memorial of Sts. Pontian, Pope & Hippolytus, Priest, Martyrs

Friday, Aug. 14^th, Memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, Priest, Martyr

Saturday, Aug. 15^th, The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Whew! What a week of celebrations! The people above have laid solid foundations for the Catholic Church. They have persevered through thick and thin. They have not given up in their mission to spread the Good News of our Lord. They can inspire us to take up where they left off.

So? What will we do this week to further the Presence of Christ in the Chatham/Springfield area? How will others be brought closer to Jesus because of our compassion and outreach and love? Where is Christ calling us to act in His Name?

May the Saints of old call us to be the Saints of now!

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker Parish:

We have entered another new month! How does that happen so quickly these days? With this being August, that means the school year is right around the corner. The summer vacation is passing by. Soon, football games will be the scene on Friday evenings. Soon, a school bus or four will be seen picking up and dropping off students. Soon, the morning commute will take longer because of more cars on the road.

If we think about August and the school year beginning, isn’t it appropriate that we celebrate the Memorial of St. Dominic this coming Saturday, August 8^th? He began the Dominican Order worldwide, a religious community of men and women who are dedicated to teaching and passing on the Catholic faith. These men and women have taken vows to pledge themselves to the teaching mission begun by St. Dominic. And how blessed we have been for many, many decades in the Springfield diocese with the presence of the Dominican Sisters of Springfield.

These women have graced our 28 counties with their vocation. They are consecrated women who have lived in community to further the Kingdom of God. They have taught and formed countless young men and women in our schools, colleges, and parishes. 

I have been pastor of three parishes in my 43+ years of being a priest---St. Thomas in Newton, Holy Family in Decatur, and St. Joseph the Worker here. In all of them, I have had Springfield Dominicans to assist me. They have been part of my priesthood. I have seen their care and outreach to so many. I thank all of them for their service to me and to the People of God.

Do we take time each day to pray for religious vocations? Do we specifically pray that more women will say “yes” to our Lord to be consecrated sisters and nuns? Do we implore our God above to move the hearts of more young women to respond wholeheartedly when He calls them to service as sisters?

Let us use moments during our day to pray for more vocations to the religious women communities that serve our diocese. Prayer is a powerful tool. Prayer can move mountains and souls. Prayer is at the heart of a vocation. 

May we pray: Lord, our God, who invites people to follow in the steps of Your Son, Jesus Christ, please open the hearts of women in our diocese to give of themselves to you through a consecrated vocation. Lead them to reflect on Your call to further Your Kingdom in today’s world. Help them to see the difference they can make in the lives of young people and in the lives of all. Enable them to see their own goodness and their own talents in furthering Your Presence. Bless all those religious women in the various communities/congregations in the world. Give eternal rest to those Sisters who have finished their work here on earth and, we pray, rest now with you. AMEN.

Your “Religious Sister” educated Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, July 26, 2026

Dear St. Joseph the Worker Parishioners:

Another week to celebrate several inspiring SAINTS in our liturgical calendar. Let’s see who we have---

July 29---Memorial of Sts. Martha, Mary, and Lazarus

These three saints were relatives of Jesus Christ. Martha was the one who offered hospitality to Jesus when he visited, while Mary sat at His feet as that attentive disciple.

Lazarus obeyed the Lord’s command to come forth from the tomb days after he died.

Pope Francis added St. Mary and St. Lazarus to the original feast of St. Martha in 2021.

WHAT TYPE OF DISCIPLE OF JESUS ARE WE TODAY?

July 31---Memorial of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Priest

St. Ignatius was originally a soldier but became interested in the Faith later on and became a priest. He founded the Society of Jesus, the Jesuit Order (SJ). The late Pope Francis was a member of the Jesuits.

St. Ignatius wrote his famous “Spiritual Exercises” and founded the Roman Collge.

Today, the Society of Jesus numbers almost 15,000 worldwide.

He is the patron saint of soldiers and retreatants.

He died in 1556.

DO WE EXERCISE IN OUR SPIRITUAL LIFE TO BE HEALTHY?

August 1---Memorial of St. Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

St. Alphonsus died in the year 1787. He was a lawyer and founded the Redemptorist Order, having almost 5,000 members.

He was a master of moral theology and is the patron saint of confessors and moral theologians.

HOW MORAL ARE WE AS WE LIVE OUR FAITH?

So, let us pray for the intercessions of the saints mentioned above. May their prayers guide us to be better followers of Jesus, the Savior they followed so closely and fervently.

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, July 19, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW Parish:

This Monday, July 20, and the following Monday, July 27, yours truly will have cataract surgery in Decatur. Yes, the time has come for your pastor to have better sight. At times I find myself straining to clearly see the words in the Missal at Mass or on the overhead screen in the back of church.

As you know, the purpose of cataract surgery is to remove the layer of covering that is impeding your vision. Once that covering is gone, one’s sight improves immensely. So---I am giving you fair warning---once I have both eyes worked on, you had better be good because I will see when you are not. HA! JUST KIDDING!!

Why am I sharing about my eye surgeries with you? Because I think the idea of having something blocking your vision, and then doing something about it, can be related to our spiritual life.

At times, we have “cataracts” that block our spiritual vision. When you know that someone needs to talk to you about an important issue in their life and you say that you don’t have time when you really do. OOPS---spiritual cataract!!

Or when the Lord directs you in prayer to give up that sin that is keeping the two of you from having a deeper relationship and you overlook His call----spiritual cataract!

How about the time you closed your eyes to an injustice at work or at school or in the neighborhood? Yes---another spiritual cataract!

See how easy it is to not have the correct or best vision that the Lord wants us to have? We need to correct whatever is blinding us to the Lord and to His call to see His presence in others and act accordingly.

I have had many people tell me how much better I will see once the cataracts are removed.

So, too, with our spiritual cataracts. Once we remove them, our faith sight will be so much better. Let us use the Eucharist, Reconciliation, Adoration, and other spiritual sacraments and tools to improve our spiritual sight. We will be so happy that we did.

Your Soon “Cataract Free” Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, July 12, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW:

Are you enjoying these summer days? I know I am. Summer is such a wonderful time of year. One can walk outside, lay by the pool, enjoy a picnic, take vacation, wash the car, mow the lawn---and you don’t freeze doing those things!! It can never get too hot for me!

Now that we have my vision of summer taken care of, let’s move on to my annual topic during the summer---MASS ATTENDANCE.

I think I hear the groans already but do read on.

It is “sad” to think I even have to mention this in a column, but I do. Why? Because too many people who call themselves Catholic do not come to church to celebrate the Eucharist. When I look at the pews during Mass I wonder why they aren’t filled. Yes, we have increased the numbers that come on the weekend, but we could still do better.

We have over 1,000 families registered at SJW. That comes out to be, roughly, say 3,500 people. The count on a weekend is usually between 650-750. While that is up from years ago, it still isn’t anywhere near the 3,000+ mark.

Why don’t people come to give praise to our Lord? That is our DUTY as Catholics to come to Mass. The 3rd Commandment of God says so. And God deserves our praise because He made us. Remember, for us old enough, the Baltimore Catechism’s definition of why we were made----TO LOVE, HONOR, AND SERVE GOD IN THIS WORLD, SO THAT WE CAN JOIN HIM IN THE NEXT.

Yes, the Catholic Church is very human at times. Yes, it makes mistakes. Yes, there have been mean priests and sisters. Yes, abuse has been done which is sinful. Yes, the Church has rules that may not fit with some. BUT still all these things do not negate our duty to be at Mass every week. To celebrate Eucharist and receive the Lord in Word and Sacrament is a great privilege for us, no matter what.

PLEASE, if you are one of the non-church going parishioners, know that our parish wants and needs you back.

If you are a faithful Mass goer each weekend, THANK YOU.

Let us pray for more Catholics to see the wonderful opportunity each weekend gives us.

Christ is waiting for you. He will be right there in the pew with you. Let us not keep Him waiting!

Your Pastor who wants you at Mass,

Father Joe

Sunday, July 5, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW:

Welcome to the month of July! In under 6 months it will be Christmas. Just sayin’…..

This coming Thursday, July 9th, I will be presiding at a Eucharist at the Franciscan Motherhouse for three Franciscan Sisters for their Jubilees. This is the celebration for them and for the other Sisters there. They have a “formal” celebration with Bishop Paprocki and their families/friends on July 11th.

What is so amazing, wonderful, unbelievable is that these three Sisters have a total of 180 years of profession! Can you imagine that? Two have been professed for 70 years each and one for 40 years. That is such a beautiful fact in today’s world.

These women have given their lives to the Lord for many, many decades. They have lived in community with other women, praying and living out their vows. They have dedicated themselves to being those faith-filled examples of service to Christ, especially through hospital ministry as well as parish ministry. Their years of obedience, chastity, and poverty are exemplary.

Just think of how our universal Catholic Church and our Diocesan Church of Springfield have been blessed with their presence. We owe much to those three Sisters, as well as to their community.

Their celebrations can lead us to ponder on our commitment to living out our call as followers of the Lord Jesus. Are we faithful to our vocation in life? Do we set a good example of discipleship each day? Have we carried out the Lord’s will? How deep is our dedication to Jesus in today’s world?

May the 180 years of professed religious service by these Franciscan Sisters inspire us to give thanks to God for them, to pray for them, and to continue their service to the Church.

May St. Francis and St. Clare intercede for these Jubilarians!

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, June 28, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to the last days of June! The year 2026 is almost half over. One month of the summer vacation is almost history. That is not a good thing---why does summer go so quickly each year?

This week will mark my 5^th year as pastor of SJW. I came at the end of June in 2021. The past years have been such good ones for me. You have been so kind, supportive, helpful, and much more. This parish has much to offer, and it is a wonderful community of faith-filled Catholics. I am privileged to be the spiritual leader at 700 East Spruce Street.

This Monday, June 29^th, is the Solemnity of SS. Peter and Paul. These two men shaped the early Church after Jesus ascended to His Father. They went out and preached and witnessed to Jesus Christ. They sacrificed so much, even their very lives, to ensure that the message of the Risen Lord would be heard and shared in the world. St. Peter and St. Paul are the cornerstones of the Catholic Church, and it only right that we give them the highest liturgical honor, that of a Solemnity. Please join us for Mass this Monday to honor these two great saints.

On Friday, July 3, we celebrate the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle. Again, another wonderful liturgical celebration this week for one of the original 12 Apostles. Thomas gave his life for Jesus. Yes, he doubted His Risen Presence as we all know, but in the end, he sacrificed all he had for the Lord. Come to Mass that morning and stay for Morning Prayer and Adoration. 

This Saturday is July 4^th. This day reminds us of our freedoms. How fortunate we are in the USA to be able to worship freely, vote without fear, be given a fair trial, assemble without retaliation, enjoy a free press, and so much more. Many countries in the world do not experience freedoms such as these. At times we need to realize what a great country we live in. Yes, there are problems, injustices, violence, etc. But, overall, the rights we have and hold enable us to live in relative peace and security. Let us be thankful for all those who have fought, sacrificed, and died, so that America can be a shining light of freedom and justice to all the world.

May this week draw us closer to the Lord, to our parish, and to one another. May it also enable us to thank those who have shaped our Catholic Church from the beginning. May we never take for granted the privilege to call ourselves Americans.

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, June 21, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

This Sunday, June 21st, is a twofold banner day. Let’s see why.

The first reason of importance is that it is Father’s Day, that special day to honor all those men who are fathers or father figures in our lives. God, our Father in heaven, gifted us with the ministry of fatherhood through our dads. These men have given of themselves in countless ways for their wives, children, families, and beyond. Their sacrifice, compassion, counsel, dedication, etc., have enriched all those for whom they are responsible. May God the Father bless them and hold them close to His heart each and every day.

F is for the FAITH our dads show and share.

A is for ALL the stuff they do for us.

T is for the TIME a dad spends with his family.

H is for the HELP a dad gives when we ask him.

E is for the ENERGY a father gives to his family.

R’ is for the REVERENCE a dad has for the Lord.

S is for the SOLACE a dad gives when we are in trouble.

D is for the DEBT we owe to our dad.

A is for the AWESOMENESS of a loving dad.

Y is for the YUCKS we get from dad jokes.

The second reason for June 21st being so special is that it is the first day of summer!!

Yes, that wonderful season when we can enjoy nature, swim, camp, smell the flowers, watch the grass grow, hear the birds chirp, seek out a rainbow after a rain on a sunny day, enjoy a picnic, soak up the rays of the sun, walk without a coat on, sit on our deck, and so much more. Let us all enjoy these days of summer. God has blessed us with our seasons.

May we not waste this season of summer for one day!

The SUMMER is: Sunny, Unique, Merry, Marvelous, Exciting, Relaxing! Wouldn’t you agree?

Enjoy this Sunday for both of the above reasons and for many more reasons of your own choosing!

Your “Summer-loving” Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, June 14, 2026

Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

It is almost the middle of June!  In two months, school will be starting. How does the summer vacation time go so much faster than other months? 

This Sunday, June 14^th, is the Fr. Franzen Memorial Golf Outing. Each year, SJW parish hosts this special afternoon and evening at the Auburn Golf Course. As pastor, I want to express my gratitude to all those who have given so much for the success of this event. Dave Kennedy and crew have done a superb job of planning, coordination, etc. Thanks, Dave et al, for all you have done. 

As you may know, the Golf Outing benefits two wonderful groups. One of them is our youth who will attend the Catholic Heart Work Camp in Indiana in several weeks. Due to the monies raised this Sunday, our teenagers are able to have this opportunity be a reality. These young people will be of service during the week to those who are in need. They will put into practice the Corporal Works of Mercy. They will give of themselves for the good of others. The Lord would be so proud of them, as I am, and I am sure you are, too. May our prayers for them fill them with lots of joy to share with those they will meet.

Another group that our Golf Outing benefits is the Retired (Senior) Priests’ Fund in our diocese. This Fund exists to help those priests who have given of themselves for many, many years and are now enjoying retirement. These priests have been there in countless ways to help people to experience and celebrate God’s Presence in their lives. And now it is our turn to help these well-deserving men who have given of themselves for the good of our diocese and the People of God. As the Vicar for the senior (retired) priests, I am overly grateful for the funds that will be deposited with the diocese for the care of these men. They have answered God’s call years ago. We need to answer God’s call now to assist them.

May we pray for the success of this Sunday in Auburn. May all those participating be safe and enjoy themselves. May the hours given for the good of our retired priests and our CHWC youth.

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW Parish:

Welcome to the month of June! We are almost halfway through this year. I hope 2026 so far has been a year of joy and goodness for each of you.

This weekend, June 6/7, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Precious Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. What an important focus for us as Catholics---the precious gift of Holy Communion. How fortunate we are to receive our Savior each time we gather to remember His Passion, Death, and Resurrection in the Eucharist. 

What if there were no Eucharist in our lives? Have we ever thought how different our lives would be if Jesus never left us a special remembrance of Him? Would we miss the reception of Christ in Holy Communion? 

Do we look forward to Saturday evening or Sunday morning so that we can come to church and give the Lord praise? Or do we think just the opposite---do I have to go?

And when we gather in the pew, do we gather with the intention of giving ourselves totally to be an active participant? Or do we just sit there---no responding, no singing, no interest?

If Jesus came back and attended one of the Masses at our parish, would He be moved by the faith of each person, their commitment living out that faith in a holy way?

The Mass is our Lord’s gift to us. Let us never take it for granted. Let us always attend. Let us give thanks to God for the ability to praise Him.

May the following prayer move us to be thankful for the gift of the Mass-----

Thanksgiving After Mass

I give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God, who have been pleased to nourish me, a sinner and your unworthy servant, with the precious Body and Blood of Your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ: this through no merits of mine but due solely to the graciousness of Your mercy. And I pray that this Holy Communion may not be for me an offense to be punished, but a saving plea for forgiveness. May it be for me the armor of faith, and the shield of good will. May it cancel my faults, destroy concupiscence and carnal passion, increase charity and patience, humility and obedience and all the virtues; may it be a firm defense against the snares of all my enemies, both visible and invisible, the complete calming of my impulses, both of the flesh and of the spirit, a firm adherence to you, the one true God, and the joyful completion of my life’s course. And I beseech you to lead me, a sinner, to that banquet beyond all telling where with your Son and the Holy Spirit you are the true light of your Saints, fullness of satisfied desire, eternal gladness, consummate delight and perfect happiness. Through Christ the Lord. Amen.                               

---      St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274)

Your Mass Presiding Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, May 31, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Can you believe that the end of May is upon us? Where have the last five months gone? 

These first days of June have several saints that our Catholic Church calls to mind. Let us look at who they are and how they can challenge us to live our lives in their memory.

SAINT JUSTIN, MARTYR---JUNE 1

St. Justin died around the year 165. He was a layman and gave one of the earliest descriptions of the Mass. He was an apologist, writing the “Apology and Dialogue with Trypho.” St. Justin is the patron saint of philosophers and apologists.

**How do I stand up for my Catholic faith in the world today?

SAINT CHARLES LWANGA AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS---JUNE 3

St. Charles Lwanga and his companions, 21 of them, were killed in Uganda from 1885-1887. Charles is the patron of African Catholic Youth Action. 

**How much do I sacrifice in my life?

ST. BONIFACE, BISHOP & MARTYR---JUNE 5

St. Boniface was a member of the Benedictine Order in Germany. He was the bishop of Mainz. In 754, he became a martyr, along with over 30 companions. St. Boniface is known as the “Apostle of Germany.” 

**Do I consider myself an apostle for Jesus in 2026?

ST. NORBERT, BISHOP---JUNE 6

St. Norbert died in 1134. He was the founder of the Norbertine Order, which today has over 1,100 members. He was the archbishop of Magdeburg. St. Norbert had a special devotion to the holy Eucharist and to Church reform. 

**How devoted am I to Communion, the Body & Blood of Christ?

May we all have a “saintly” week in the sight of God and one another!

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, May 24, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

This weekend, May 23/24, is the close of our Easter season. Fifty days ago, we celebrated the Resurrection of the Lord from the dead. These past weeks have been filled with “Alleluias” from us, praising God for the miracle of the empty tomb. How fortunate we are in the Catholic Church to have seven weeks to reflect on the great miracle of Easter.

Our Easter season culminates this weekend with the Feast of Pentecost. This commemorates the coming down of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and the Blessed Virgin in the upper room. Tongues as of fire appeared over their heads. And all were filled with new energy, strength, courage, wisdom, and much more. They went from being scared and meek to being brave and bold in proclaiming their faith in the Risen One. On the day of Pentecost, the Church was born. Our roots go back to that day when Peter and the other Apostles went out and witnessed to Jesus Christ.

           **HOW WILL WE CONTINUE TO BE THOSE “PENTECOST” PEOPLE FOR CHRIST,

                BOLDLY GOING FORTH AND WITNESSING TO OUR CATHOLIC FAITH?

                                                          ___________________

This Monday, May 25, is Memorial Day, a time to remember all those men and women in the armed services throughout our country’s history who gave their lives for our freedom. Because of their resolve to defend our country and serve it so faithfully and fully, we are able to enjoy freedom and peace. They sacrificed themselves so that we could live as free people. They fought so that we could gather in freedom to worship our God. Let us never forget their sacrifice. Let us always be thankful for their selfless giving. Let us daily pray for their souls. May the Lord grant them a special place in the Heavenly Kingdom.

            **HOW WILL WE GIVE TO OUR NATION AS THEY DID, SELFLESSLY AND FULLY?

                                                            __________________

This Thursday, May 28, is my 43^rd Anniversary of Ordination. On Saturday, May 28, 1983, I became a priest for the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois. It was the greatest day of my life. And the years that have followed have been ones where I have seen the Lord in so many ways and in so many people. I have been blessed over the years as a priest. One special way is being pastor of SJW parish. You have shown me such love, faith, sacrifice, giving, and joy. My priesthood is deeper and better by being in Chatham as your spiritual leader. I am grateful for each assignment I have had through the four decades, as each one has brought me into contact with such wonderful followers of Christ. Thank you for the last five years!

May the end of our Easter season not be the end of our giving thanks to God for His Son rising from the dead, which opened the gates of Heaven for us one day. ALLELUIA!

Your “43 Year Old” Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Dear St. Joseph the Worker Parishioners:

We celebrate this weekend, May 16/17, the Ascension of our Lord into Heaven in most dioceses in the United States. Several celebrated the Ascension this past Thursday, with them celebrating the 7^th Sunday of Easter this weekend. However, years ago, with the shortage of priests and wanting to ease the number of Masses with another Holy Day of Ascension Thursday, the US Bishops in many dioceses transferred the Ascension to the following Sunday. We are one of those dioceses.

It is interesting for us in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois that we celebrate the Ascension this weekend in light of what would usually occur for us this coming weekend. It has been the practice in our diocese to have Priesthood Ordinations on the Saturday before Memorial Day. I was ordained on May 28, 1983, on the Saturday before Memorial Day of May 30, 1983. However, this year we are having a Diaconate Ordination, praise God, on Friday, May 22^nd. 

This Friday we celebrate that Patrick Mulligan will be ordained a Transitional Deacon for the Church of Springfield. His ordination is a joyous event for all of us. God willing, he will be ordained a priest in May of 2027. Please pray for Deacon Patrick as he exercises his Diaconal ministry over the next months. May our Lord, Jesus Christ, fill him with the joy and love as he serves the People of God.

With that said, there is a glaring omission from the calendar for our diocese this May. There will be NO priestly ordinations in our diocese this year. NONE! There are no men in the seminary who were ordained transitional deacons last May who would be ordained priests this coming Saturday. 

As you can see, we have a priestly vocation shortage right here at home in the Springfield diocese. We have lost several active diocesan priests over this past year. Some will be retiring this coming July. And we have no new diocesan priests to replace them. And that is where WE come in.

All of us need to pray DAILY for more vocations to the priesthood. We need to pray that more men will listen to the Lord’s call to priestly service in the Catholic Church and for the local Church of Springfield. We need to pray that the Lord will open the hearts of young men to say YES. May each of us fervently pray for an increase of vocations from our own parish of St. Joseph the Worker. 

Have you ever considered asking a young man in your family, at work, at school, in your neighborhood if they ever thought about being a priest? One of the most effective ways to increase priestly vocations, studies show, is through a personal invitation from another person. Many times, all it takes is for someone to ask another about being a priest. 

Let us see our obligation to pray for more vocations to the priesthood. Let us commit ourselves to praying for those priests who serve right now. Let us support our current seminarians through prayer and financial support. 

Let us pray: Lord, Jesus Christ, our High Priest, stir up in the hearts of more young men the desire to follow You as priests. Encourage them to open their hearts and lives to Your will. Help them to discern Your call for them to be priestly ministers in the Church which desperately needs them today. 

May Your Catholic Church, begun at Pentecost, continue to flourish in our world and in our time. 

Your almost ordained 43 years ago pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, May 10, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW Parish:

Good 2^nd week of May to all of you! Good 6^th week of the Easter season to all of you! We continue to say and sing “ALLELUIA” to the Lord for His Resurrection.

And this Sunday, May 10^th, is a very special day for all those women who have been gifted and entrusted with motherhood. As I have said for decades: “God knew what He was doing when He made moms.” Having been given the best mom ever, I know that is true.

I wish all who are moms in any way a special day of love and joy. Let others in your life spoil you to the hilt. (That is a hint to all those others to do just that!!) May the Lord, who had the Blessed Virgin Mary as His mom while here on earth, fill you with His Presence. I thank all moms for their faith and the sharing of it with their spouse, children, and family. I appreciate your commitment to respecting the life given to you in your children, and for your raising them in the Catholic faith. Thank you for all you do day in and day out for your family and beyond.

Happy Mother’s Day! Happy Mother’s Week! Happiness to you moms each and every day!

M   is for the MANY things a mom does that go unnoticed.

O    is for moms always thinking of OTHERS.

T    is for the TOTAL giving a mom does for her family.

H   is for the HEART a mom puts into everything she does.

E    is for a mom taking care of EVERYONE around her.

R’  is for the RESPECT we should give our mom.

S    is for the SILENCE we should allow our busy mom to have at times.

D   is for the prayers we should offer up DAILY for our mom.

A   is for the AWESOMENESS of a mom.

Y   is for the YEAH that we should shout in honor of all moms.

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, May 3, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to the month of May! This month in our Catholic Church is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. We have several weeks to honor the Mother of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

May this month find us praying to Mary to intercede for us to her Son. Possibly using one of the following to do so----

Hail, Holy Queen: Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope! To you do we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to you do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary! Pray for us, O holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Hail Mary: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed are thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Regina Coeli: O Queen of heaven, rejoice! Alleluia! For He whom you did merit to bear, Alleluia. Has risen, as He said, Alleluia. Pray for us to God, Alleluia.

 V. Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, Alleluia.

 R. For the Lord has risen indeed, Alleluia.

Let us pray. O God, who by the resurrection of Your Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, has given joy to the whole world, grant, we beseech You, that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, His Mother, we may attain the joys of eternal life. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Memorare: Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided.

Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come; before you I stand sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate! Despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

The Angelus: V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.

 R. And she conceived by the Holy Spirit.            Hail Mary……

 V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord.

 R. Be it done unto me according to Your Word.   Hail Mary…….

 V. And the Word was made flesh.

 R. And dwelt among us.                                   Hail Mary…….

Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech You, O Lord, Your grace into our hearts: that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ Your Son was made known by the message of an Angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Happy praying to the Blessed Virgin each day of this week and month. And don’t forget to pray the Rosary, too!

Your Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, April 26, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW Parish:

Welcome to the 4th Sunday/Week of Easter! We continue to celebrate the Resurrection in these 50 days of our Easter season. May the joy and peace of the Risen Lord be with you each day. Let the Lord deepen your faith throughout these remaining days of this glorious time in our Church.

This weekend, April 25/26, I will not be present at the Masses. Fr. Rick Weltin will preside at the three liturgies. He sure does enjoy coming here to take my place. I sure do appreciate your kindness to him. AND ONLY BELIEVE THE GOOD THINGS HE SAYS ABOUT ME, IF HE SAYS ANYTHING AT ALL---ha!!! You will be in good hands.

I will be at my annual Midwest Miniature Bottle Club Show in St. Louis. I definitely have to be there as I am the President of the Club. (See what happens when no one else will take it?)

I do have a great time seeing the other collectors and catching up with them. And, who knows? I may buy some bottles!!! 2 or 20 or 50—only God knows how many at this point! HA!

This coming Friday is a big day for us. It is our Feast Day. May 1st is the Feast Day of St. Joseph the Worker. As it falls on a first Friday, we will have Adoration from 7:15 to 8:15 a.m., followed by Mass, with Adoration again after Morning Prayer until 11:30 a.m., closing with Benediction. May we celebrate this special day in our parish by using the hours for prayer. What better way to honor St. Joseph than by being ministers of prayer during the day. Pray a Rosary, read the Scriptures, sit in silence and reflect, pray the Stations of the Cross or the Divine Mercy chaplet. There are many ways we can give glory to God on May 1st for the presence of that special saint—Joseph the Worker---who took care of Mary and Jesus, protecting and loving them fully.

How fortunate we are to bear the name of the husband of the Blessed Virgin and the foster father of the Savior of the world. Let us challenge ourselves to bear witness to the Lord as did St. Joseph. Let us continue his love and care of Christ in our world today by caring for the Lord’s Presence in those around us. Let us be honored to gather in worship of God under his name. Let us ask his intercession daily.

Your Pastor who tries to be a worker in St. Joseph’s name,

Father Joe

Sunday, April 19, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to the 4^th Sunday/Week of Easter! We continue to celebrate the Resurrection in these 50 days of our Easter season. May the joy and peace of the Risen Lord be with you each day. Let the Lord deepen your faith throughout these remaining days of this glorious time in our Church.

This weekend, April 25/26, I will not be present at the Masses. Fr. Rick Weltin will preside at the three liturgies. He sure does enjoy coming here to take my place. I sure do appreciate your kindness to him. AND ONLY BELIEVE THE GOOD THINGS HE SAYS ABOUT ME, IF HE SAYS ANYTHING AT ALL---ha!!! You will be in good hands.

I will be at my annual Midwest Miniature Bottle Club Show in St. Louis. I definitely have to be there as I am the President of the Club. (See what happens when no one else will take it?)

I do have a great time seeing the other collectors and catching up with them. And who knows? I may buy some bottles!!! 2 or 20 or 50—only God knows how many at this point! HA!

This coming Friday is a big day for us. It is our Feast Day. May 1^st is the Feast Day of St. Joseph the Worker. As it falls on a first Friday, we will have Adoration from 7:15 to 8:15 a.m., followed by Mass, with Adoration again after Morning Prayer until 11:30 a.m., closing with Benediction. May we celebrate this special day in our parish by using the hours for prayer. What better way to honor St. Joseph than by being ministers of prayer during the day. Pray a Rosary, read the Scriptures, sit in silence and reflect, pray the Stations of the Cross or the Divine Mercy chaplet. There are many ways we can give glory to God on May 1^st for the presence of that special saint—Joseph the Worker---who took care of Mary and Jesus, protecting and loving them fully.

How fortunate we are to bear the name of the husband of the Blessed Virgin and the foster father of the Savior of the world. Let us challenge ourselves to bear witness to the Lord as did St. Joseph. Let us continue his love and care of Christ in our world today by caring for the Lord’s Presence in those around us. Let us be honored to gather in worship of God under his name. Let us ask his intercession daily.

Your Pastor who tries to be a worker in St. Joseph’s name,

Father Joe

Sunday, April 19, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to the 4^th Sunday/Week of Easter! We continue to celebrate the Resurrection in these 50 days of our Easter season. May the joy and peace of the Risen Lord be with you each day. Let the Lord deepen your faith throughout these remaining days of this glorious time in our Church.

This weekend, April 25/26, I will not be present at the Masses. Fr. Rick Weltin will preside at the three liturgies. He sure does enjoy coming here to take my place. I sure do appreciate your kindness to him. AND ONLY BELIEVE THE GOOD THINGS HE SAYS ABOUT ME, IF HE SAYS ANYTHING AT ALL---ha!!! You will be in good hands.

I will be at my annual Midwest Miniature Bottle Club Show in St. Louis. I definitely have to be there as I am the President of the Club. (See what happens when no one else will take it?)

I do have a great time seeing the other collectors and catching up with them. And who knows? I may buy some bottles!!! 2 or 20 or 50—only God knows how many at this point! HA!

This coming Friday is a big day for us. It is our Feast Day. May 1^st is the Feast Day of St. Joseph the Worker. As it falls on a first Friday, we will have Adoration from 7:15 to 8:15 a.m., followed by Mass, with Adoration again after Morning Prayer until 11:30 a.m., closing with Benediction. May we celebrate this special day in our parish by using the hours for prayer. What better way to honor St. Joseph than by being ministers of prayer during the day. Pray a Rosary, read the Scriptures, sit in silence and reflect, pray the Stations of the Cross or the Divine Mercy chaplet. There are many ways we can give glory to God on May 1^st for the presence of that special saint—Joseph the Worker---who took care of Mary and Jesus, protecting and loving them fully.

How fortunate we are to bear the name of the husband of the Blessed Virgin and the foster father of the Savior of the world. Let us challenge ourselves to bear witness to the Lord as did St. Joseph. Let us continue his love and care of Christ in our world today by caring for the Lord’s Presence in those around us. Let us be honored to gather in worship of God under his name. Let us ask his intercession daily.

Your Pastor who tries to be a worker in St. Joseph’s name,

Father Joe

Sunday, April 12, 2026

Dear “Easter” Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to the 2^nd Week of Easter! We continue to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord, the single greatest event ever in the history of our world. This miracle enabled creation to be able to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. And we have 50 days to celebrate the “Empty Tomb” and the gift it was for our life here and especially our eternal life.

It is interesting that Catholics give up things, do extra things, pray more, donate money and time, etc. during Lent. But what do we do during the Easter season. What? Do you mean we are to do more, other, etc. during the days of Easter? Yep!!!

How will we spend this glorious season new life? How about----

PRAYING MORE? What about  coming to Adoration, Daily Mass, reading Scripture, Meditating, and many other ways.

MORE STEWARDSHIP? What about giving more of our time to the Lord through giving time to the Church? Like volunteering for a liturgical ministry, helping out at a parish event? What about giving more of our talent? Can we play an instrument of sing at our Masses? Can we bake wonderful sweets, signing up for the next parish event? What about giving more of our treasure? Have we given to the Capital Campaign? Do we give to the parish on the weekend at Mass or through the mail during the month? What charity do we support?

MORE PERSONAL GROWTH? Do we work at growing in our personal relationship with Jesus Christ? How have we deepened our faith since Ash Wednesday? How is the condition of our soul?

Let us use each day of this Easter week to be those EASTER DISCIPLES of our Risen Lord.

Your Easter Season Celebrating Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

The unthinkable has happened---JESUS CHRIST IS RISEN FROM THE DEAD! The same Jesus Christ that was dead on the Cross on Good Friday is now the RISEN CHRIST on Easter Sunday. The sadness, despair, and tears of the Crucifixion scene are gone, replaced by joy, hope, and smiles. And that is what countless millions of Catholics and other Christians will celebrate this Sunday and for weeks after during the Easter season. 

Our “job” now is to make sure we announce the Easter message through our actions with one another. And what is this message we are to share? That Jesus is alive. That Jesus wants to be part of our world in a renewed way. That Jesus continues to reach out to us through the sacraments, especially, and through prayer. That Jesus loves us more than we can ever imagine. Just look at what he did over the past three days. He suffered and died for our salvation, and He was innocent through it all. His focus? Our being forgiven and able to enjoy eternal life.

As your pastor, I wish all of you a very blessed Easter and Easter season. I pray you enjoy time with family and friends. Let the promise of these days fill you over and over. May the smile in your heart be seen in the smile on your face.

Thank you for all that you do for me and for the parish. It is my honor to be the pastor of St. Joseph the Worker parish. You all enable me to enjoy my priestly vocation so very much. Your kindness, outreach, support, prayers, care and so much more touch me to my core. May the Lord draw us closer to Him and each other daily, especially during the 50 days of this season of Resurrection.

Special thanks to all who have volunteered to minister during our Holy Week and Triduum liturgies; to our choir and musicians for leading us in prayerful music; to those responsible for the décor; to all those who have given so that our parish is able to grow in our faith.

Congratulations to Grant Sondgeroth on his full initiation into the Catholic Church. He was baptized, confirmed, and received 1^st Communion at the Easter Vigil. And Grant is only 9 years old. What is really neat about this is that the Lord calls people at any age. Way to go, Grant, on answering the Lord’s call to become for Him a “special child of God.” And thanks to Grace Stenke, his godparent, and to MC Garriott, our OCIA Coordinator.

As we journey through these weeks of Easter, let us proclaim ALLELUIA in each breath. That is the least we can do for our Resurrected Lord!

Your Easter Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

The unthinkable has happened---JESUS CHRIST IS RISEN FROM THE DEAD! The same Jesus Christ that was dead on the Cross on Good Friday is now the RISEN CHRIST on Easter Sunday. The sadness, despair, and tears of the Crucifixion scene are gone, replaced by joy, hope, and smiles. And that is what countless millions of Catholics and other Christians will celebrate this Sunday and for weeks after during the Easter season. 

Our “job” now is to make sure we announce the Easter message through our actions with one another. And what is this message we are to share? That Jesus is alive. That Jesus wants to be part of our world in a renewed way. That Jesus continues to reach out to us through the sacraments, especially, and through prayer. That Jesus loves us more than we can ever imagine. Just look at what he did over the past three days. He suffered and died for our salvation, and He was innocent through it all. His focus? Our being forgiven and able to enjoy eternal life.

As your pastor, I wish all of you a very blessed Easter and Easter season. I pray you enjoy time with family and friends. Let the promise of these days fill you over and over. May the smile in your heart be seen in the smile on your face.

Thank you for all that you do for me and for the parish. It is my honor to be the pastor of St. Joseph the Worker parish. You all enable me to enjoy my priestly vocation so very much. Your kindness, outreach, support, prayers, care and so much more touch me to my core. May the Lord draw us closer to Him and each other daily, especially during the 50 days of this season of Resurrection.

Special thanks to all who have volunteered to minister during our Holy Week and Triduum liturgies; to our choir and musicians for leading us in prayerful music; to those responsible for the décor; to all those who have given so that our parish is able to grow in our faith.

Congratulations to Grant Sondgeroth on his full initiation into the Catholic Church. He was baptized, confirmed, and received 1^st Communion at the Easter Vigil. And Grant is only 9 years old. What is really neat about this is that the Lord calls people at any age. Way to go, Grant, on answering the Lord’s call to become for Him a “special child of God.” And thanks to Grace Stenke, his godparent, and to MC Garriott, our OCIA Coordinator.

As we journey through these weeks of Easter, let us proclaim ALLELUIA in each breath. That is the least we can do for our Resurrected Lord!

Your Easter Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to Holy Week! This is the most special week of the liturgical year. These solemn days commemorate the Passion of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This next week will hopefully bring us into a deeper relationship with our Savior. Please make sure your schedules are free to come and worship with Jesus and one another.

PALM (PASSION) SUNDAY: MASSES AT 8:00 A.M. & 10:30 A.M.

This day Jesus enters Jerusalem to die. His mission has led Him there to fulfill what His Heavenly Father intended for Him and for our salvation. The people want to crown Him an earthly king, but Jesus enters on a donkey to give His very life for us as our spiritual King.

As we journey along with Jesus over the next days, let us enter them with holiness and grace.

THE EASTER TRIDUUM

HOLY THURSDAY: MASS AT 6:30 P.M.

This Thursday we call to mind the Last Supper that Jesus had with his apostles. During that meal, He instituted the Eucharist and Holy Orders. Christ gave us HIS Body and HIS Blood as a holy remembrance of His love for His people. Also, he ordained His first priests. Let us gather to be refreshed with Holy Communion and to pray for all priests.

GOOD FRIDAY: SERVICE AT 3:00 P.M.

This Friday is the only day in the liturgical year that Mass is not celebrated, since we remember the death of Jesus only and not His Resurrection. He gave all He had for our salvation, His very life-breath. This most holy day is one for us to reflect, give thanks, and pledge our undying love for our Savior.

HOLY SATURDAY (EASTER VIGIL): MASS/INITIATION AT 7:00 P.M.

The most important celebration during the year for the Catholic Church is the evening of Holy Saturday, when catechumens (those unbaptized) are baptized, confirmed, and receive 1^st Communion. The Church universal sings “ALLELUIA” that Christ is now risen. May our lives ring out with ALLELUIAS daily!

EASTER SUNDAY: MASSES AT 8:00 A.M. & 10:30 A.M.

This Sunday of Holy Week celebrates the triumphant Resurrection of the Lord! He has conquered sin and death. The eternal life lost in the Garden of Eden is now restored. The empty tomb is the sign of God’s power over death and evil, as heaven is now opened for all ages. Let us say THANK YOU to the Lord for this day!

I will see you, hopefully, at each of our special liturgies over the next days. Nothing on our calendars could be more important than our Holy Week worship services.

Your “Passionate Pastor about SJW,”

Father Joe

Sunday, March 22, 2026

Dear SJW Parishioners:

Welcome to the 5^th week of Lent! These days of reform and renewal are sure passing by quickly. Let us continue to use this season to be better disciples for our Lord, who gave of Himself for each of us.

This coming Tuesday, March 24^th, is a very important day for all of us. Why is that, you may ask? That evening is the Restored Order celebration at the Cathedral in Springfield. That is when our Faith Formation 3^rd graders and others who need to complete there initiation into the Catholic Church will be confirmed and receive 1^st Holy Communion. What a glorious time for all of them. Please pray for each of them as they continue to journey in faith. May our Lord draw them closer to Him each day.

Their celebration should inspire each of us to reflect on our faith journey. Where are we as to our relationship with Jesus Christ? Are we growing as Catholic Christians in the faith into which we were baptized? How would we assess our commitment to living out the Gospel in our neighborhood, school, workplace? 

Confirmation. When we experience this sacrament, the Holy Spirit comes into our lives in a special way. Our faith is confirmed, made stronger. We are infused with the gifts of the Holy Spirit---Wisdom, Knowledge, Fortitude, Understanding, Piety, Fear of the Lord, and Counsel. These gifts enable us to go forth and bear witness to the values of our Savior.

Eucharist. The source and summit of our Catholic faith is the Eucharist. When we receive the Lord in His Body and Blood, we are the closest we can be to Him this side of heaven. Our Lord gave us this very special sacrament to remember Him and to celebrate our faith in Him. As Catholics, we are privileged to be nourished with the Savior of the world.

This Tuesday is a time for all at SJW parish to renew ourselves in the sacramental life of the Church. It is a time for us to confirm our love for Jesus and to rededicate ourselves to Him.

This Tuesday is a time for all at SJW parish to make sure that we hunger and thirst more and more each day for the Body and Blood of Jesus. It is a time for us to appreciate the very special opportunity we have in partaking of the Eucharist.

May all of us be renewed in our Catholic faith. May all those who are confirmed and receive Communion for the first time this Tuesday evening appreciate their faith and their Lord.

Lastly, a special thanks to all those who prepared our young people for the Restored Order celebration---Anna Barham, our Restored Order Coordinator; the FF catechists; MC Garriott, our OCIA Coordinator; the youths’ parents and sponsors; and all others who have brought them to this wonderful evening at the Mother Church of our diocese.

Your Pastor,

 Father Joe

Sunday, March 15, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

This Sunday is the Ides of March. We are halfway through this month already. We are beginning the 4^th week of our Lenten season. These are precious days to be reforming ourselves, getting rid of any sin that impedes us from being the best disciples of Jesus that we are called to be. How are we doing? Are we closer to the Lord this day than we were when Lent began? Jesus sure hopes so!

This coming Thursday is the Solemnity of St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus. This is one of the great Solemnities celebrated during Lent; the other one is the Annunciation of the Lord, March 25^th. During these Lenten days of sacrifice, reform, and renewal, we pause on these two days to give honor to St. Joseph and to remember that great call of Mary to be the Mother of God. Let’s look at these two Solemnities:

ST. JOSEPH, MARCH 19

1)     How do we continue to live the faith that our patron saint had?

2)     When we are called by God, as was St. Joseph, do we respond favorably as he did?

3)     Where do we need to open our hearts more to be obedient followers of God, as was

St. Joseph?

THE ANNUNCIATION, MARCH 25

1)     Mary said “yes” to God always. Do we?

2)     Mary had total trust in God. Do we?

3)     Mary never wavered in her faith. Same for us?

May we live this next week of Lent as St. Joseph and the Blessed Virgin Mary would. 

Your Lenten Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, March 8, 2026

Dear Parishioners of SJW:

Welcome to the 3^rd Sunday/Week of Lent! How did this past week go for you as to reforming and renewing your spiritual life? These glorious days of Lent are given to us so that we can emerge come Holy Week and Easter as new creations in the sight of our Lord. Let us keep trying to be faithful to our Lenten resolutions that we made weeks ago on Ash Wednesday.

In the Gospel for the 3^rd Sunday of Lent, we have Jesus meeting the woman of Samaria at the well. Their interchange is the highlight of the scene. Jesus calls her to thirst for God, for faith, for refreshment. He is asking her to drink of His Presence, His salvation, His invitation to eternal life.

As we journey this week, let us thirst more and more for Jesus Christ. Let us drink in His Presence day after day. Let us find our relief in following Him, so that one day we can immerse ourselves in the freshness of eternal life.

T   Do we give ourselves TOTALLY to the Lord?

H  Do we open our HEART to change?

I    How do we IMITATE the love of Jesus?

R  How much REVERENCE do we have in our life?

S  Do we SAVOR the Eucharist more and more?

T  Do we take TIME to be with Jesus in the silence of our hearts?

May we have always a thirsting to be the best Catholics. May we continue to feel those

life-giving waters of our baptism. May we wash away all that stains our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Your Lenten Pastor,

Father Joe

Sunday, March 1, 2026

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to another week of Lent! How fortunate we are to have this special season during which we have the opportunity to change more into the Lord of our faith. These days of reform and renewal call us to work on the condition of our souls. Have we thought about that lately? How do our souls look to Jesus Christ, who gave His very life so that our souls could go to heaven and be with Him forever? Something to reflect upon these days of our 2^nd week of Lent.

S     How does my speech SOUND to others around me?

O    How OFTEN do I pray during the day?

U    How will I USE my time before Mass to focus on the Eucharist?

L     Do I LOVE being a Catholic?

S     Do I spend SACRED moments in Adoration during the year?

Please don’t forget our Parish Mission which will be this Sunday, March 1^st and Monday, March 2^nd, both evenings beginning at 6:00 pm. Please come and have your souls enriched. 

Please make these evenings a priority in your schedules. Your SOULS will be deepened in the ways of the Lord!

May the Lord of the Passion bless you and all of us as we continue our journey of change this Lent.

Your Lenten Pastor,

Father Joe

pastor

Very Reverend Joseph Molloy

pastor@stjoschatham.org