Summer Plans and Re-Creation

It feels so good to be in “summer mode” - not only the warm weather but also a more laid-back pace of life. This past weekend, part of our rectory lost air conditioning (a “first world problem”), and I was reminded of how those who battle the heat regularly learn to slow down. This is a healthy reminder for all of us to take a break at times from our regular, often hectic schedules. God wants us to! He gave us the commandment to honor the Lord’s Day as a day of rest, rooted in the story of Creation. Especially if we tend to slip in honoring this weekly respite, may we make it a priority this summer to take time for reflection and re-creation. Our lives are valuable not just because of what we accomplish, but because we are created by God in love. Let's spend time appreciating this love in our lives and in all the relationships with which God blesses us!

Slowing down and reflecting also helps us to step back, to see the big picture in our lives, and to look to where we are headed. Like a family who looks forward to going on vacation together, they are able to prepare accordingly, our collaborative parishes are looking at what we need to get in place in order to take the next steps forward as communities of Jesus’ disciples. In addition to our Local Pastoral Plan which we will formally roll-out over the coming months, we are closing out one fiscal year and setting budgets for the new one. We are looking at not only finances but other resources, like our properties and the time and talents of our parishioners which are so valuable to our families of faith! Please think about your level of involvement in your faith and parish life, and where God might be leading you….

Planning ahead, I invite you to save the date: Sunday, September 10 will be our annual St. Martha & St. Mary Picnic Celebration from 1-4pm. This gathering is enjoyed each year by hundreds of people from both parishes as we build relationships while sharing food, music, and fun for all ages! Details will be announced soon.