From the Pastor's Desk- October 18

Dear Parishioners,

News of Pope Leo's lung cancer diagnosis was an unpleasant and unexpected blow. Yet, his reaction and demeanor have been a blessing to witness. As a high-ranking Vatican cardinal said, we are all impressed with his serenity. In this way, he continues to bring us together in prayer for his health and for the Church. Without any particular speech, the Holy Father invites us to rediscover that a Christian is someone who continues to draw life from the mysteries of Christ's life, given to us through the sacraments and prayer. I wonder if the Pope asked to be anointed before or after the surgery. Pope Leo is teaching us how to find meaning in human suffering. I wouldn't be surprised if he spends time reading Salvifici Doloris again, a letter written by Saint John Paul II.

Why this illness? Why now?" we could ask ourselves. Perhaps the answer lies in simple faith: because, in God's providence, the pope is being united more closely with Christ to strengthen the church and confirm our unwavering hope that we are in the hands of our good Father. I have no doubt that an abundant stream of grace is flowing into the Church, the beloved bride of Christ, right now.

A year ago, we intentionally changed our online giving platform. We are now using PushPay. I am aware that changes, even good ones, are never easy. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and generosity. I am happy to report that we have slightly increased the number of electronic donations, although we definitely need to make another push.

Last fall, our main focus was on this change of platforms, and I decided against making an increased offertory effort. This year, we need to do so if we want to continue growing. We are going to conduct this drive in the upcoming weeks. Here is the schedule:

• The weekend of October 24 and 25 will be the announcement weekend of our Increased Offertory Campaign. There will be a banner to remind us about this parish-wide, intentional effort. Announcements will be made at all Masses, and cards will be handed out for each family to take home. We hope all households and parishioners prayerfully consider supporting the parish and its needs financially. 
• The weekend of October 31 and November 1 will be commitment weekend. After the homily and before the prayers of the faithful, you will have a chance to approach the altar and drop off your commitment card with your family or other parishioners.
• The weekend of November 7 and 8 will be the follow-up weekend. We will express our gratitude to those who have already helped and give others who could not do so for various reasons a chance to help. 

Please help us make our annual Increased Offertory Campaign a success! 

Most importantly, let us continue to pray for Pope Leo's recovery.

God bless you!

Fr. Álvaro