From the Pastor's Desk- October 11

Dear Parishioners,

Last weekend, Bishop Burbidge presided over two confirmation masses at our parish, and although it was rainy, it was a day full of joy. The bishop encouraged our young people to follow Christ more closely, acknowledging that this would be challenging at times. Above all, he reminded us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. He told us that our focus should be to remain in him and obey his commandments as a sign of true friendship. Has it not always been difficult to be a faithful Catholic? Especially today.

Please pray for our newly confirmed young people and their families and friends. I would particularly like to thank Fr Leopoldo for coordinating all the liturgies and reception with such precision. Thanks also to my staff, catechists and volunteers, some of whom are pictured here with Bishop Burbidge.

Also, please remember that the schedule for Saturday confessions and evening Masses will be different. Starting October 31, confessions will begin at 3:00 p.m., followed by Mass in English at 4:30 p.m. and Mass in Spanish at 6:30 p.m. This decision was made after consulting with the Pastoral Council, as well as staff and parishioners of different ages and walks of life. I am confident that the new schedule will help many drive more safely in winter and allow more time for evening activities. Please share this information with your family and friends, in case they have not yet heard about the change. Personal communication is best!

Finally, I humbly encourage you to vote "no" on ballot questions 1 and 2 of the proposed constitutional amendment in our Commonwealth. Much is at stake. Do your part to come to an agreement on such basic matters for the common good of our society and our families. I have already voted, fully aware of the critical importance of these issues. Thanks to the early voting polls, it only took me five minutes.

God bless you!

Fr. Álvaro