THANK YOU ONE AND ALL: Another Cluster picnic has wrapped up and, as always, it was a true success. We even evangelized! Some non-Catholics who attended sat outside the pavilion where we celebrated Mass until it was over. Their response: “Man, we didn’t know Catholics could sing like that!” My backflips down the aisle may have been too much, but I was overcome by the Spirit?! But seriously, it was a wonderful gathering. Good prayer, good weather, good food, good conversations, good kid and adult games, and a lot of good fellowship. Some extended relatives of mine who live in England were overwhelmed by everyone’s graciousness and hospitality.
Thank you to all who helped: planning, set up, serving, organizing and running the games, clean up, unloading, and all the other things you did to make the Cluster Picnic what it was! I am always so proud of us when we shine the joy of Christ as a parish. You folks are great!
DID YOU MISS THE SIGN UP? If you missed the picnic, you may not be aware that some of us walked around and collected information from many of those in attendance. We are trying to make sure that we are meeting your needs and that you are up to date on your sacraments. One of the graces from last Sunday is that we received info from an individual who wants to be baptized! This person is going to dip their toe into the faith by attending ALPHA. In doing so, I believe that their relationship with the Lord is going to grow by leaps and bounds.
Several other parishioners from both the cathedral and St. Moses signed up to come to ALPHA and will benefit greatly as well. ALPHA is a series of sessions exploring the meaning of life. Each talk looks at a different question designed to create conversation. Everyone is welcome. The sessions include 3 key things in common: food, a short video, and good conversation. Food has a way of bringing people together. It’s no different at Alpha. We start with food, because it’s a great way to encourage community and get to know each other. The beautifully produced videos are about 25 minutes long and address questions such as “Who is Jesus?” and “How can we have faith?” Probably the most important part of any Alpha course is the conversation. We provide a chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic. There’s no obligation to say anything. And there’s nothing you can’t say. It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.
So please please please please come join us. The sessions begin Sep. 10 at 6:30pm in the lower level of the Cathedral office and we have secured parking. Sessions run from September through early December. You can sign up in different ways: There is a form in this bulletin; you can sign up online; or you can call Marian at the office (313) 883-2869. Hope to see you there, you will not regret it.
God bless you!
Fr. J.J