From the Pastor's Desk- August 30
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Dear parishioners,
As you know, Father Michael Duesterhaus, the former Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of
Angels, passed away on 23 August following a number of years of medical issues. Less
than two weeks ago, doctors estimated that he had between five and six weeks left, but
he deteriorated much faster than expected.
Despite his diagnosis, Father Michael remained in good spirits. He encouraged us, his
fellow priests, to embrace our vocation wholeheartedly, to administer the Sacrament of
Penance generously, and to cherish our time at the altar of God.
I ask that you pray for his eternal rest. You may find the following prayers helpful for
reflecting on Christian life and priestly ministry. They are taken from the funeral liturgy
and offer great insight.
"In the waters of baptism, Father Duesterhaus died with Christ and rose with him to new
life. May he now share with him eternal glory"
"In baptism, Father Duesterhaus received the sign of the cross. May he now share in
Christ´s victory over sin and death".
"We pray for our brother Michael, who served the Church as a priest, that he may be
given a place in the liturgy of heaven".
"Grant we pray, O Lord, that the soul of Michael, your servant and priest, whom you
honored with sacred office while he lived in this world, may exult forever in the glorious
home of heaven".
"We implore your kindness, O God, for Michael, your servant and Priest, that as you
made him a steward of your mysteries on earth, so you may bring him to be nourished
by their truth and reality as unveiled in heaven".
May his soul, and the souls of the faithful departed, through the Mercy of God, rest in
peace, Amen.
God bless you!
Fr. Álvaro
