Usually I address my column to all the parishioners of St Paul of the Cross parish. This week, however, I would like to write a column especially for you as you are about to begin another school year. I am sure you are eager to get back into the swing of things. Even though you will miss the fun of summer, you will be happy to see all your friends.
First of all, I want to make you understand that you are precious in God’s eyes. God loves you in a special way. During His life on earth, Jesus paid particular attention to children and young people. The gospels tell us that on one occasion He welcomed children, hugged them and blessed them. He told His disciples that unless they became like little children, they would not enter God’s Kingdom. I also want you to know that you are very important to our parish. As your pastor, I am delighted to see so many children and young people coming to Mass.
Second, I want to encourage you to use this academic year for your personal growth in holiness, wisdom and character. Time is a precious commodity and as we get older, we realize that it is getting scarcer. When you are young, it is easy to pretend that we have all the time in the world. Do use your time carefully and fully utilize the opportunities that God places on your path.
As you engage in these three important tasks (holiness, wisdom and character), don’t forget to be joyful. I would have said, “Have fun!” But that expression is so confusing and it means different things to different people. Learn to be happy. You will find out that by being a good, caring, faith-filled person, and by loving other people you become happy.
Towards the end of chapter 2, Luke concludes the story of Jesus being lost and found in the Temple at the age of 12 thus:
Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.
Dear young person, you too are called to be a joyful member of your family and obey your parents. Just like Jesus you need to increase in wisdom, in years, and in divine and human favor. This year is being given to you so that you can achieve these objectives. The parish is here to help you.
I do pray for you. If there is anything I can do for you, do not hesitate to call on me.
God loves you tremendously!
Mission Statement: As children of God, living in a Catholic community of faith, we are united by the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Aware that all we have is gift and grace from our Heavenly Father, we strive to give of our time, talent and treasure to build His kingdom on earth. We live this mission, challenged by the Word, nurtured by the Sacraments, and enlivened by the Spirit, to serve our brothers and sisters in peace, justice and dignity. All are welcome on this journey.
SPC Food Pantry Open
8:00 am - 10:00 am
Senior Singles
3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Book Club
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Phone: (847) 825-7605
Fax: (847) 825-5186
7:30 a.m. - Upper Church
9 a.m. - Upper Church & Holy Family Chapel
10:30 a.m. - Upper Church & Holy Family Chapel
12 p.m. - Upper Church
5:30 p.m. - Upper Church
6:25 a.m. - Upper Church
8:30 a.m. - Upper Church
8 a.m. - Upper Church
4:30 p.m. - Upper Church & Holy Family Chapel