A Message from Father Michael

When to Stand

The implementation of the Roman Missal, Third Edition has presented an opportunity to review many of our practices. Among our assemblies, there is some confusion as to the appropriate time to stand following the Preparation of the Gifts. The ritual instructs that the priest extends the greeting: “Pray brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father.” The people then rise and make their response: “May the Lord accept the sacrifice…” It is therefore my request that the assembly remain seated while the Greeting is offered. Once the Greeting has been extended, all rise and make their response. This allows for the Greeting to be heard by all. It also provides for a natural rhythm to our worship of invitation and response.

World Marriage Day

Next Sunday, February 12th, we honor all married couples and salute their faithfulness, as well as the sacrifice and joy discovered in daily married life. Jesus has commanded that we are to “love one another.” This commandment speaks to us in a simple but challenging way of how our Father wishes us to live. Loving one another is a daily decision; simple but challenging. The following prayer seeks God’s blessing in the daily life of all married couples:
Father, we thank you for your tremendous gift of the Sacrament of Marriage. Help us to witness to its glory by a life of growing intimacy. Teach us the beauty of forgiveness so we may become more and more one in heart, mind, and body. Strengthen our dialogue and help us become living signs of your love. Make us grow more in love with the Church so we may renew the Body of Christ. Make us a sign of unity in the name of Jesus, our Lord and our Brother.”
— Fr. Bill Dilgen, S.M.M.

Our Lady of Lourdes

February 11th is the patronal feast of Saint Mary Parish. On this day we remember the Virgin Mary’s appearances in 1858 to Bernadette Soubirous, a 14 year old peasant. Each year thousands of pilgrims flock to seek the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes in France to seek healing, and many find it in various forms. This day has been designated by Pope John Paul II as World Day of the Sick, a special time of prayer and sharing, of offering one’s suffering for the good of the Church and of reminding everyone to see in their sick brothers and sisters the face of Christ who, by suffering, dying and rising, achieved the salvation of mankind.