Sunday, May 4th 2025
Dear Parishioners of Pope Saint John XXIII parish faith community,
We celebrate the Third Sunday of the Easter Season, the liturgy of the Word affirms the resurrection of the Lord and the events that follow in the life of the Apostles, who were the ambassadors of Christ. In the Gospel we hear that the apostles had given up hope with the death of their Master and had gone back to their old profession. But the Lord reveals Himself to them with another miraculous catch of the fish and calls them once again to be fishers of men. The intense conversation between Jesus and Peter reinvigorates his love and dedication to the mission the Lord calls him. We witness their commitment to the Lords mission in the first reading. The resurrection of Jesus Christ brings also to us joy and peace along with the invitation to commit ourselves to His cause.
Additionally, we have entered the Month of May, a time of special devotion to the Blessed Mother. We have already honored her with crownings at various masses across our parish locations: with CCD children at the 4:30 pm Mass at our main campus, and at the 11:30 am children's mass at St. John of the Woods. Special Masses included a procession of Our Lady of Lavang with our Vietnam community and a Sunday Mass at 4:00 pm. Last Thursday, during the school Mass at 9:00 am, we crowned Mary at Pope St. John XXIII STEM Academy, where all the school children participated devoutly by offering flowers to the Blessed Mother.
This week holds another significant celebration: the confirmation of 58 children from our parish family. This sacrament, to be conferred by Bishop Frank Schuster on May 9th at 6:00 pm, marks a profound moment in the lives of our children. I invite all parish faithful to join us in prayer for these children, that they may receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and become true witnesses of Christian living. Let us also remember and pray for our CCD teachers who have diligently prepared these candidates.
In addition to these celebrations, our parish prepares for a momentous eventthe celebration of its centennial existence. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all volunteers who tirelessly prepare our church and campus for this grand occasion. Special gratitude goes to Poncho Shrader for his instrumental role in expanding our parking lot, and to Ms. Felicida Mousel for her generous donation of Easter flowers for the main campus. We also acknowledge all volunteers who contributed to various projects, including cleaning and painting the church and hall. Our centennial celebration committee deserves special recognition for their dedicated planning and resourcefulness.
Active participation in parish life deepens our appreciation for community efforts and resources. I encourage each of you to steward your time, talents, and resources to enrich our parish. Registering with our parish ensures you receive updates and vital information directly to your home. Your support in maintaining our facilitiessuch as picking up trash and tidying after useis invaluable and greatly appreciated.
You have recently received Archbishop's letter regarding the Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA), which supports vital ministries beyond our parish's capabilities. Next week, witness speakers will share more about ACA at each campus. You will also receive a pastoral support letter from me, providing detailed information about ACA and encouraging your participation to help us achieve our parish goal. Any excess funds will benefit much-needed parish projects.
Our parish had solemn prayer, offering a special Mass for the repose of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. As the universal Church grieves his passing, let us continue to lift his soul to God in our prayers, entrusting him to the boundless mercy of the Lord.
For comprehensive information about our parish's ministries and activities, please visit our website and other communication channels. May you have a blessed day and week ahead!
Sincerely, Yours in Christ
Fr. Tuan Nguyen, D. Min
Pastor