Dear Brothers and Sister,
In the Rite of Baptism, a young child is anointed with the Oil of Chrism to be a “Priest, Prophet, and King” of Jesus Christ. Through Baptism, we are all set apart to be ministers and proclaimers of the good news of salvation. This responsibility is entrusted to parents to cultivate in their children, a challenging task for many. And that’s where we can help.
Each of us has the potential to support our parents by our Christian example. Through our actions we can support both parents and young people by communicating the role they play as messengers of the gospel set apart for this purpose. Think about this past week. How have you been a source of support for others? Thank God for that opportunity!! If you reflect and notice times where you were not a source of support, pray for the wisdom to feel empowered to provide that support.
This week let us especially keep in our prayers the repose of the soul of Bishop Anthony Pilla, priest and bishop of our diocese for over 60 years. Throughout those years he educated and/or ordained the majority of the priests that serve the Diocese of Cleveland. His faithful example has inspired priests, religious, lay ecclesiastical leaders and faithful to come experience the human friendship of Jesus.
Also, in gratitude, we thank Diane Mravec, who has ministered at Saint James Parish as parish secretary for the past nine years. She has decided to leave her position for a new opportunity. We pray for her success in her new endeavor.
Each of us are set apart to minister and proclaim the good news. Let us be open to the Spirit to do so.
Christ’s peace!
Fr. Workman