Twenthieth Week In Ordinary Time

August 15, 2017

by Fr Reginald Samuels

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ

Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Catholic Bishops from the entire United States are calling on all people of goodwill to join in prayer and unity in response to last week’s violent protest and deadly attack in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Cardinal DiNardo said in his statement last week:

"As we learn more about the horrible events of yesterday, our prayer turns today, on the Lord's Day, to the people of Charlottesville who offered a counter example to the hate marching in the streets. Let us unite ourselves in the spirit of hope offered by the clergy, people of faith, and all people of good will who peacefully defended their city and country.
We stand against the evil of racism, white supremacy and neo-nazism. We stand with our sisters and brothers united in the sacrifice of Jesus, by which love's victory over every form of evil is assured. At Mass, let us offer a special prayer of gratitude for the brave souls who sought to protect us from the violent ideology displayed yesterday. Let us especially remember those who lost their lives. Let us join their witness and stand against every form of oppression."

As we celebrate our 52nd anniversary, now it is time to renew the flame of our burning hearts to assure we continue the mission of Christ for all following generations. We must face the challenges and opportunities of the next 52 years with one unequivocal mission:
Saint Hyacinth is a Catholic Community bearing witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are nourished by his sacraments, committed to the service of one another by living and teaching gospel values. Our journey in faith and love calls us to walk with others through service and prayer. We will continue the mission of Jesus Christ to bring about the kingdom of God, through the power of the Holy Spirit using the gifts of time, talent and treasure. And thus, through the example of our patron, St. Hyacinth, we will serve Christ and his Church.

In our Gospel for this Sunday, we witness the efforts of the Canaanite woman who is looking for help for Jesus. Despite the great odds that were against her, she is persistent in asking of Jesus to help her daughter. We have to persistent in our faith as well. We cannot allow our thoughts and opinions stop us for approaching Jesus and asking for what we need. If this woman in our scripture had the courage to approach Jesus, then we need our own courage to approach him as well.
Religious Education classes will be starting in a few weeks’ time, and now is the time to start thinking about the upcoming religious Education school year. Registration is currently in progress. You can register on line or register in Faith Formation office during Sunday hours.

Remember as well that when you are registering your child for Religious Education classes you can also sign-up yourself to be a catechist or aide. We are in great need of a number of catechists to teach our children, from the littlest ones in the early grades on through middle school and high school. It’s a wonderful way to get involved in the life of the parish and to live out the call of Stewardship of your time and talent. We’ll train you and give you all the support you need. The Faith Formation staff is happy to answer questions and get you involved.

Thanks to all those who have made their pledges for the capital campaign. Thank you for your generosity and sacrifice. As you know by now, we have reached a major milestone at the $1 Million pledge level; however we still have a ways to go. There is still time for you to make your pledge. Envelopes are in the Narthex along with our collection box specifically designed for our Capital campaign or you can do so online through the parish website. When you complete your pledge envelope, drop it in the Capital Campaign collection box in the Narthex, offertory basket, or mail it or bring it by the office at any time. We entrust this campaign to the intercession of Our Blessed Mother and our patron St Hyacinth. As your pastor, I invite you all to discern how best you are able to support our capital campaign to build Family, Faith and Future… our Sanctuary…. Our Home.

God Bless,
Fr. Reginald Samuels