Why Attend “The Big Event”? So Much More than a Free Lunch…!

Why Attend “The Big Event”? So Much More than a Free Lunch…!

Remember the iconic photograph from a victory parade at the end of World War II of a sailor embracing a woman in a passionate kiss? That kiss – and the whole victory image – expressed so many emotions for all Americans: triumph, joy, relief, love, yearning for home, etc. Sadly, as I’ve said before, pandemics don’t end that way. They trail off gradually, fade into the background, and as medical experts frequently tell us, we learn how to live with the new virus like we have with so many other diseases. There will be no “V-Corona” day like the V-E and V-J days of the past.

However, we have come a long way in learning how to live with this virus – not only medically but also as a nation, world, and Church! We are still fighting this battle, but we are no longer facing an unknown enemy. It is something we have learned how to manage rather well while renewing important parts of life, especially families, friendships, and faith communities.

We need to create moments to celebrate this triumph! It is not only appropriate but very important spiritually to use what we have learned to celebrate and re-invest in the relationships and activities that are life-giving to us. The Sunday Eucharist and the faith family that comes together to celebrate it are among the most important life-giving things we can do – for ourselves and for others!

“The Big Event” on the morning of Sunday, October 3, provides this important opportunity for our faith families of St. Martha and St. Mary. So yes, we request the honor of your presence for the 9:30am or 10:00am Welcome Back Masses followed by our joining together on St. Martha lawn to continue the celebration to share food and build community, enjoying multiple musical acts and fun activities for all ages! Complimentary catered lunch will be provided to all who make reservations by September 26 at www.bit.ly/pwcBigEvent or contact your parish office.

I need your help to make sure our delivery volunteers are not overwhelmed with 2,600 gift bags to deliver to people’s homes! Please take a moment right after Mass THIS WEEKEND to take your own gift bag home with you. These bags are a simple yet sincere gesture of our prayers for all of our parishioners, and of our desire to connect in more meaningful ways. Please read the materials in the gift bag, too, about the many ways to be involved in our upcoming events and ongoing ministries.

Which begs the question: “Is the Big Event the conclusion of this year’s Welcome Back Initiative?” By no means! We continue to plan events like “Coffee & Chat”, a special commemoration ceremony for all who died during the pandemic, and maybe even a simple wine & cheese social after Mass… But the Big Event is the high point of our year of welcome, so if at all possible, you don’t want to miss it! Make your reservation today!
- Fr. Joe