Sunday March 10, 2024
I Have Good News and Sad News
Writing this, I cannot but recall King David as he awaited a messenger, saying, “if there is only one, it is good news (2 Samuel 19:19-33).” I have two significant pieces of news to share. First, and sadly, Father Michael will depart from us on July 1 for Holy Family in Orange. I received the news from the Priest Personnel Board last week and I was sad to know that a big brother to me, one with whom I have shared ministry and rectory fellowship, is being reassigned. I know the loss is felt by you who have known him these last ten years. We will celebrate Father Mike and his contribution to our faith community in the months ahead. His emphasis on leadership development over the years, and recent consultation and advice were instrumental in the formation of our Parish Pastoral Council. Father Mike will say more at all the Masses next weekend. Please be informed that Father Joseph Truong will be joining us on July 1st.
Looking forward, I also come with a message of good news. We will introduce and commission the eight members of our Parish Pastoral Council during most of our liturgies this weekend. The Council is the culmination of months of prayerful discernment, education, and a process that included input from our whole community. Around 400 selection forms were received and tabulated. Thank you for your prayers and participation! You can see the eight members who will serve in terms from two to three years on page 5 in this week’s bulletin, and on our parish website (www.stjccm.org/parish-pastoral-council). We will gather for a retreat given by Sister Katherine “Kit” Gray in April and convene around Pentecost in May. They will be my closest consultants on pastoral planning as they identify priorities, research and reflect upon them and make recommendations. They are also bridgebuilders in our community. Please feel free to approach them and share your ideas for and impressions of our parish.
In Christ,
Rev. Robert P. Capone